Launceston Cup 2021 | A survival guide on how to dress, how to bet and how to enjoy

Have you thought about how you will navigate the day and make it to the other side of one of the city's biggest events?

Here's your insider's survival guide to what to wear, how to bet, how to get there and all the other things you might not have thought about just yet.

Fashions on the Fields has come and gone already, but that doesn't mean you can't put your best foot forward.

Ladies, while sky-high heels and a short dress might seem like a good idea at the time, do yourself a favour and skip the blisters and goosebumps by dressing appropriately - it's going to be a nice 20 degree day.

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Not only does this mean adhering to the dress code, but also dressing with smarts. And if you are looking for someone inspiration for this year's outfit we have you sorted.

You can also vote for your favourite look at Fashions on the Fields on Sunday here.

While it's too late to nab a marquee and all the perks that come in tow, general admission tickets are still available for $30 per adult.

All tickets must be pre-purchased online, so get in quick and make sure you don't miss out.

But, if you do - don't worry. We'll have you sorted with live coverage of all the trackside action to socials, fashions and everything in between.

There's nothing worse when you're dressed to the nines and ready to go only to realise you have no way of getting there.

Make sure you've pre-arranged your wheels by either booking your taxi ahead of time, find a designated driver or take the bus.

If you avoid the midday rush you'll save yourself a good 20 minutes and potentially score a good park if you choose to drive.

The less time you spend banked up in traffic, the more time you'll spend on the lawn vociferously cheering on a horse you've never heard of before. Gates open at 12pm.

READ MORE: First timers guide to attending the Launceston Cup

And isn't that what the races are all about?

Thoroughbred horses are amazingly consistent animals and if you can crack the code in the form guide, you can beat the bookies.

Look for horses that are good at the track and distance, have solid recent form and have drawn a good barrier (anything inside barrier 10).

READ MORE: All the action from the 2020 Launceston Cup

Even better, go and watch them in the parade yard. Not only are they breathtakingly beautiful animals, but the trained eye can tell how they're feeling on the day.

For short races (1000m-1400m), look for horses that are compact and stoutly built, with big strong behinds. Pick the ones that looked keyed-up, bouncy and ready to go. If they're sweating a lot between the legs or around the flanks (near the lower ribs), your horse has already expended a lot of energy.

For longer races (2000m+), look for horses that have a longer, narrower look about them. You also want your distance horses to be relaxed, rather than champing at the bit.

Race-goers should take a look at the map of the grounds, to ensure the maze of punters doesn't leave you in a sweaty panic.

READ MORE: The long history of the Launceston Cup

It's all about prime position. So know where to place your bets, where to find food and drinks and how to get to the portable toilets (a much better option if you want to avoid queues).

COVID-19. It's hard to get through a conversation without mentioning it.

We might have a vaccine being rolled out as we speak, but that doesn't mean we leave all the rules at the gate.

The Launceston Cup is a COVID-safe event, so adhering to all guidelines is a must and if you are unwell stay at home.

Be sure to practice social-distancing and keep those hands clean and wash them frequently.