Team VIVA! enjoying a delicious lunch

Armed with Melbourne Cup form guide and sweep tickets, team VIVA! headed to Sydney’s iconic  Bel Mondo restaurant on Tuesday, November 6 for an afternoon of fine food, fab wine and tall hats!  

A cocktail upon arrival, reserved seating and nervous excitement set the scene for what would prove an eventful Melbourne Cup.

Brimming with confidence following a four-race winning streak, the failing television signal triggered Paul’s demise.

Our taste buds were tantalised with an entrée of crab and asparagus arancini as Moet & Chandon flowed while we exchanged winning tips for the big race.

As our beef and barramundi mains made their way to our table, the television fix-it man restored the signal to the Flemington Track. Paul was deliriously happy.

We were soon lost in the excitement and atmosphere of the biggest race of the year as the horses galloped down the final straight to the finish line.

Mixed emotions filled the air – hope, thrill, nervousness and surprise as Green Moon seized the lead, and ultimately, the Cup.

As we all scrambled to locate the winning “dark” horse among our sweep tickets, Kirsten claimed first place.

Abbey and Mahsa settled for second and third place respectively, while Claire’s hopes pinned on Cavalryman were shattered.

Meanwhile, Anna, smiling from ear-to-ear, clinched third place in the restaurant’s generous sweep.

Winners are grinners! What a fantastic afternoon. Thanks to Paul and Kirsten for making this year’s Melbourne Cup so memorable.