Ed Dunlop's wonderful horse Red Cadeaux looks to have survived his injury incurred in running, during today's Melbourne Cup. Gerald Mosse was forced to pull up big Red in front of the grandstands, a couple of hundred metres from the finishing line. As the euphoria swept across the course in support of Michelle Payne's effort aboard Prince Of Penzance, the old warrior ground to a halt. The horrible green tarps were hastily placed around the stricken animal and suddenly the crowd became aware of what was playing out before them. Nobody wanted a repeat of last year's race where two horses lost their lives. As the truck arrived to carry away Red Cadeaux, a huge cheer arose from the masses as Australia's favourite horse was seen to be making his way to the transport, under his own steam, although his leg was encased in a splint. The initial prognosis was not all that flash. As he was placed under the knife, racing fans across the country hoped that things were not as bad as they were led to believe. Ed Dunlop thought he'd lost him. He said he though he'd never see the horse again. Red Cadeaux is not out of the woods quite yet, but the vet is hopeful that he may survive. Mr. Dunlop has stated that the horse is now retired. He has promised Red a happy retirement. Red Cadeaux has been an old marvel on the track. He's made his way around the globe on many an occasion. As well as his six visits to Australia, he's raced in Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, France, England, Ireland and Dubai in the UAE, amassing a glorious $8,108,268 in prize money while winning or being placed in 19 listed or Group events. If ever an animal has earned a quite life of luxury in a verdant pasture, it's Red Cadeaux. Fingers crossed that Red gets what he so richly deserves. Hang in there old mate.
The first 24/48 hours are crucial with an injury like this. The fact they have not sent him straight for surgery is a good sign and now it is a game of wait and see. Keeping everything crossed that he pulls through.
