Updated
Grey skies and the light rain did not deter racing fans as they lined up for a chance to see their heroes in the annual Melbourne Cup parade.
The 18-carat gold winners cup led the parade through Melbourne's CBD to Federation Square.
Jockeys, trainers and owners of all 24 starters were on show in their last outing before Tuesday's big race.
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Organisers were expecting a turnout of about 40,000 people.
Three-time Melbourne Cup winner Glen Boss says the parade is iconic.
"It's a celebration of the race that stops not only the nation, but most parts around the world," he said.
Flanked by his son and nephew, jockey Craig Williams is hoping to take Dunaden to back to back wins.
"You wouldn't know it's raining with the people out here. It's great. This is the build up for the Melbourne Cup. That's why it's so special," he said.
Veteran trainer Bart Cummings is going for his 13th victory with two runners, Sanagas and outside chance Precedence.
"When I started it was quiet. Now it's a great crowd everywhere," he said.
Previous champions, including Doriemus, Brew and Might and Power also took part in the parade.
Race director Peter Jones says it is a rare chance for people to get up close and personal with the former champions.
"Some have got their handlers who were there over 15 years ago, who know the horses well so they get a chance to actually stop, the public get a chance to actually pat them," he told ABC local radio.
"It's a wonderful thing to see these great champions going down Swanston Street."
Topics: community-and-multicultural-festivals, carnivals-and-festivals, melbourne-3000
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