Thousands of Perth punters expected at Derby Day on Saturday ahead of Melbourne Cup

Perth punters are getting ready to saddle up at Ascot Racecourse ahead of the race that stops the nation.

Thousands are expected to gather at the racecourse for Derby Day this Saturday, dressed in their most glamorous black and white threads, before the main event on Tuesday.

Race lovers watching the Melbourne Cup at Ascot will be treated to an Ibiza-style party turning the trackside experience into a white sand haven.

Ascot’s White Claw Beach Club will feature a European party vibe, styled with chic lounges, tables, umbrellas and DJs.

Perth Racing chief executive James Oldring said around 15,000 people were expected to gather for The Cup at Ascot this year.

Model Emma Jardine posed up with champion WA sprinter Scenic Blast ahead of the Group 1 race, held over 3200 metres at Flemington Racecourse.