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Three-time Melbourne Cup runner-up Red Cadeaux was euthanised today after failing to recover from an injury suffered at the 2015 event.
The English stayer came last in this year’s race, pulling up after sustaining a break in his left foreleg.
Initially his progonsis looked positive as he became stable after treatment, but “irreversible complications” resulting in a loss of blood flow to his leg led to the decision to euthanise him.
“This is my saddest day in racing. Red Cadeaux was a much loved member of our family and my thoughts are with his owner Mr [Ronnie] Arculli and my staff, particularly Robin Trevor-Jones and Steve Nicholson, who spent every day caring for this horse,” said trainer Ed Dunlop in a statement.
“Unfortunately the complication was irreversible and the decision to euthanise the horse, whilst terribly hard, was made in his best interests.
“Red Cadeaux has given us and the racing public so much joy competing with great distinction across the world. He was an incredibly tough competitor with a wonderful nature and he will be dearly missed by all.
“I want to thank all the vets in Australia, particularly at the University of Melbourne Equine Clinic, that have worked tirelessly on the horse since the race and given him the very best of care.
“On behalf of Mr Arculli and my staff, I also want to thank the Australian public and his racing fans from around the world for their wonderful support and well wishes during what has been an incredibly tough time for us all.”
In accordance with the wishes of owner Ronnie Arculli, Red Cadeaux will be buried at the Flemington racecourse.
The Victoria Racing Club (VRC) said it was honoured to provide a final resting place for Red Cadeaux at Flemington.
“The loss of a horse is always particularly sad,” the VRC said in a statement.
“Very few horses have endeared themselves to the Australian public like Red Cadeaux, ensuring the impact is only further and more acutely felt.
“Red was one of the world’s most travelled horses, and Australia was fortunate to feature on his itinerary on six occasions.
“He was the first international horse to contest five Emirates Melbourne Cups, a race he seemed to reserve his best performances for with three second placings.
“He just loved Australia and Australia certainly loved him.”
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