Haters target Australia's favourite horse race

Must not speak well of the Melbourne cup

A former Miss Universe Australia has been heavily criticised for her new role as ambassador for the Melbourne Cup Carnival, with cruel trolls calling her involvement in the horse racing industry 'disgusting'.

Tegan Martin shared her exciting news on Sunday, posting a photo of herself dressed in a designer outfit by Australian brand Torannce.

'The Carnival has always been a favourite time of year for me and with only 55 days to go it's going to be an amazing season! Big thanks to Flemington for this incredible opportunity,' she wrote on Instagram.

The 27-year-old Sydneysider, who was 'thrilled' by the appointment, couldn't have foreseen the hate comments her single post would generate.

'Such an awful industry that use horses as business commodities,' one person commented.

'Educate yourself about the "sport" you're being an ambassador for. This race and all horse racing is disgusting. So many horses are murdered and abused and here you are all proud thinking this is oh so glamorous - it isn't,' said another.

'This horror show is my least favourite day of the year! I can't help but think if these "celebrities" just stopped being ambassadors and throwing their support behind it - it may just lose its appeal entirely,' a third added.

Many of the comments took aim at Tegan for not 'understanding' what the horse racing industry does to its champions

The Melbourne Cup Carnival begins on November 2 and runs until November 9 with Derby Day, the Melbourne Cup and Oaks Day included.

In her role Tegan will be expected to attend all of the major day events dressed in designer wear.

SOURCE