Red Cadeaux confirmed his place in the Australian history books when running second in the Melbourne Cup for the second time, in front of over 100,000 race goers at the Flemington track.
Partnered by Gerald Mosse, Red Cadeaux was drawn 23 of 24 and carried 8st 13lbs, 4lbs off the top weight Dunaden. It seemed like a tough task to repeat his 2011 performance, or even go one better, but Cadeaux thrives in Australia and he proved that once again this year finishing three quarters of a length second to the Gai Waterhouse trained Fiorente.
With regular work rider Stephen Nicholson aboard everyday in preparation for "the race that stops a nation" and travelling head lad Robin Trevor- Jones over seeing his training leading up to the race meeting , his preparation went smoothly on what had been titled Red Cadeaux's "Zimmer frame tour"
Taking the pre-race parade in his usual laid back style, Red Cadeaux looked a picture in the paddock but went off one of the outsiders with the bookies at 60/1.
Breaking from his wide draw well and tracking over to be settled mid-division, Red Cadeaux travelled beautifully and made steady progress through the field three furlongs out. Hitting the front inside the two furlong pole he showed all his battling qualities as Fiorente challenged on his outside down the home straight. Not going down without a fight, Cadeaux battled back continuing to press Fiorente just failing by three quarters of a length as they passed the winning post.
Mr Dunlop commented;
"He has carried more weight today but has still probably run better than when he was second here two years ago. Full credit to my staff and to Gerald Mosse for a great ride. If I have my way, we'll be back again."
A thrilling finish to the Melbourne Cup 2013
Enjoying a shower the day before the Melbourne Cup
On the track with regular rider Stephen Nicholson