Victorian man wins $1 million by backing Melbourne Cup winner

A Victorian man is tonight $1 million richer, after backing Rekindling in the Melbourne Cup.

The lucky punter, Dominic from Mill Park in Victoria, was randomly selected after placing a bet in TAB’s Cup Millionaire Promotion in races 1-4 at Flemington.

His bet was a $5 each-way punt at Land of Plenty in Race 3, which ran second.

Dominic then had the opportunity to tip the Cup winner for $1 million, selecting $15 chance Rekindling.

“I started the day working so I never could have imagined this,” Dominic said.

“I was laying on the couch about to have a few bets when I got the call that I won the draw.

“I was actually home alone so I had to call a few mates who rushed over to watch with me.”

The punter’s heart was in his mouth in the final 50m as Johannes Vermeer challenged Rekindling before the three-year-old colt edged it before the line.

“I was just numb. It’s a surreal feeling and I’m still in shock,” Dominic said.

“I chose Rekindling because I liked its form overseas and its draw, but I never could have imagined this.”