They say that "second sucks" but Ed Dunlop, prepararing to take in the sights of Oz before heading off to Japan to cheer on SNOW FAIRY on Sunday week, today stressed how proud he was of the gallant effort of RED CADEAUX, who was beaten a nose by French raider Dunaden in this morning's Melbourne Cup in Flemington and the boss is already preparing for his return journey next year.
Ed, reflecting on the agonising defeat in what was the closest ever finish to Australia's premier horserace in 151 years, said: "I could not have asked for more of Red Cadeaux and had there been a little bit more juice in the ground I think he would have won."
"I have always been something of a pessimist and began to fear the worst when the ground dried up but he has proved me wrong by running the most fantastic race. All credit to Michael Rodd who was brave enough to drop him out in a slow-run race but he has ridden an absolute peach and produced him with a perfectly-timed challenge to lead at the furlong-pole. Those waiting tactics took a lot of nerve and it almost paid off."
"I was watching the race with Luca (Cumani), who had also been second with Bauer and he thought we had won but I was not so sure and would have gladly settled for a dead-heat. The longer the photo-finish went on, the more hopeful I got but it was not to be. We got chinned on the line."
"This is my first visit and it has been the most marvellous experience. We have been looked after so well and I will definitely be bringing Red Cadeaux back next year. I had heard so much about the Melbourne Cup being 'the race that stops a nation' and it is certainly something very unique. It was our first attempt and we have hit the crossbar - maybe next year we will find the back of the net!"