Thread:Snowdog67/@comment-31677686-20170813020516/@comment-30092376-20180325010549

From traveller.com:

The rivalry between Sydney and Melbourne is practically a sporting contest of its own – a perennial tug of war that will doubtless shuffle back and forth for eternity. While Sydney might claim to have the upper hand when it comes to beaches and weather, Melbourne is the clear winner with regards to sport. It's the only city in the world to host a tennis grand slam and a Formula One race, plus there's the small matter of the nation-stopping Melbourne Cup.

Last April, the city received the ultimate accolade, being named Sports City of the Decade at the Ultimate Sports City awards in Switzerland.

Other notable events held in and around Melbourne include:

Great Ocean Road Running Festival. Running a marathon is never an easy proposition, but at least on this one you'll be distracted by the spectacular coastal scenery of the Great Ocean Road. Don't worry if you're not marathon ready, there's also a half marathon, a 14-kilometre race, a six-kilometre race, a 1.5-kilometre "Kids' Gallop" and three walks. Marathon too tame? Then check out the gruelling 60-kilometre ultra from Lorne to Apollo Bay. Even if you're not competing, there will be plenty going on in the area, including two kite festivals and free entertainment.

Chevrolet Brasil Global Tour. See some of the world's finest soccer players in action on Aussie soil. International superstars Messi and Neymar will grace the MCG when Brazil takes on its arch rival Argentina. Then it's the Socceroos turn, tackling the might of Brazil.

Rugby League World Cup. Melbourne will host the opening match of the RLWC, with the Kangaroos taking on England at AAMI Park which is two kilometres south-east of the city and features a futuristic bio-frame roof with unobstructed views from every seat.

Fast5 Netball – Fast5 is a high-scoring, high-action version of netball with five players per side, shortened quarters, multiple point shots and double point power plays. In 2015, Melbourne won the rights to host the tournament from 2016 until 2018 and this year sees the world's best teams congregate once more on Hisense Arena in October for two days of intense competition. Conveniently in the heart of Melbourne Park, Hisense Arena is a 30-minute stroll from the city centre and is well served by trains, buses and trams.

Spring Racing Carnival – September to November

The highlight of the Australian horse-racing calendar, this annual extravaganza sees the world's top jockeys and horses battle it out during more than 100 race meets in and around Melbourne. While the headline-grabbing Melbourne Cup gets much of the glory, there are many other notable races, including The Caulfield Cup, the W.S. Cox Plate and the Victoria Derby. Add fabulous food, fashion and fizz to the mix and you've got a three-month-long excuse to get dressed up and party. Races are held across several tracks including Flemington, Caulfield and Mooney Valley, all of which are within easy reach from the city by public transport.

In October, the world's best motorcycle riders will converge on Phillip Island for the three days of exhilarating racing in the MotoGP (motogp.com.au).

The Kookaburras and Hockeyroos will both be in action in November during the International Festival of Hockey.

And December sees the return of the eight-day Sail Melbourne regatta to St Kilda, featuring Olympic and invited classes.