Forget studying the form guide, mabye the secret to picking a Melbourne Cup winner is hiding in the jockey’s wardrobe or the number on the horse’s backside. We don’t claim to be experts at the Starts at 60 office!

With Australia’s most famous horse race upon us today, we’ve gone digging through the history books to uncover the numbers, colours and barriers that have enjoyed the most success, and some of the results might surprise even the most seasoned Cup Day punter.

No.4 has plenty to brag about

Historically, saddlecloth No.4 has been the Melbourne Cup’s golden child, carried to victory 12 times, including by Verry Elleegant in 2021.

Numbers 1 and 12 have also enjoyed 11 victories apiece.

But spare a thought for poor old No.20.

It hasn’t carried a Melbourne Cup winner since 1897, when Gaulus claimed the trophy. That’s 129 years without a winner, a drought long enough to make even the most optimistic punter reconsider their lucky number.

Feeling blue? That might be good!

Here’s a colourful surprise.

An ABC analysis in 2015 found that jockeys wearing predominantly blue silks had won 41 Melbourne Cups, ahead of black with 33 and gold or yellow with 30.

Of course, jockeys wear their owners’ registered colours, so turning up in your favourite blue shirt won’t improve your chances, although it might help you look the part at the Cup Day barbecue.

And what about the barriers?

Barriers 5 and 11 share the historical honours, producing eight Melbourne Cup winners each through 2025.

Barrier 18, meanwhile, had a miserable record until Verry Elleegant finally broke its hoodoo in 2021.

There’s a small catch, however. Historical barrier figures can differ depending on whether researchers count the original draw or the gate a horse actually jumped from after scratchings.

So, should you choose a horse wearing N0.4, carrying blue silks and jumping from barrier 5?

You could. But remember, the horses haven’t read the statistics.

We reckon the best Cup Day strategy is still the traditional one: pick a name you love, cheer yourself hoarse and enjoy the spectacle.

After all, somebody has to finish last!

Also check out Aussies set to spend $351million on the Melbourne Cup

Gamble responsibly: Charlie’s Melbourne Cup selections are for entertainment only and are not betting advice. Gambling involves financial risk, and there is no guaranteed way to pick a winner. Only gamble what you can afford to lose, and never chase your losses.

Chances are you’re about to lose. For free, confidential support, call the National Gambling Helpline on 1800 858 858 or visit Gambling Help Online.