Racing figure Alanna Grayston sparks storm with ‘grubs’ call

A racing identity has caused a stir with an extraordinary swipe at the “grubs” ruining the Melbourne Cup this year.

Racing identity Alanna Grayston has taken an extraordinary swipe at Melbourne Cup protesters, labelling them “grubs”.

The fashion and form guide commentator on Tuesday morning hit out over widespread reports animal rights groups were preparing to take action on Melbourne Cup Day at Flemington.

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Recent editions of the race have exploded in controversy over clashes between police and protesters.

Allana Grayston on Instagram. Photo: @allanagrayston.

Allana Grayston on Instagram. Photo: @allanagrayston.

Grayston suggested protesters should be thankful the race allows them a public holiday.

“I bet all these anti racing grubs & greenies supporters in Victoria still enjoy their public holiday time of,” she posted.

Her post was flooded with supportive comments from racing fans.

It comes after she posted an earlier response to a Twitter post published by the official Victoria Greens account.

Move with the times? They sure are, racing is the biggest it’s ever been & we’re not going anywhere 🙌

— Allana Grayston (@allanagrayston) November 6, 2023

Animal rights activists protested the event last year and have increased pressure on organisers to have it axed in recent years.

Pop superstar Taylor Swift notably cancelled her 2019 performance at the Melbourne Cup following public outcry from animal rights activists

Elio Celotto, campaign director for the Coalition for Protection of Racehorses, told SBS this week.

Celotto said there is “no question people are turning away” from horse racing as public concerns about animal welfare increase.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) protest against the Melbourne Cup. Picture: PETA.

“They’ve been describing it now as the race that divides the nation, and I think that is true,” Celotto said.

“As a society, we are constantly evolving ... and this is one of those changes taking place; people are choosing not to support something that is cruel.”

Protests may not be the biggest concern for the great race.

The threat of a Tuesday afternoon thunderstorm has Victoria Race Club Senior Track Manager Liam O’Keeffe more than a little nervous.

O’Keeffe confirmed there’s a “very high chance of showers, most likely in the afternoon and evening with the chance of a thunderstorm” with a top of 29C.