Trainers Ciaron Maher and David Eustace had plenty to celebrate after their horse Gold Trip powered to victory in 'the race that stops the nation’. However, another of their horses failed to finish, with Interpretation the only one in the field of 22 to do so.
The four-year-old from Ireland was initially in doubt to make the race after signs of lameness on Monday. But he passed the required veterinary inspections this morning to take his place in the barriers.
Fortunately, it is believed Interpretation actually struggled with the windy conditions at Flemington, and its disappointing performance wasn’t anything injury related.
Camorra also battled with the weather, while Numerian and Serpentine struggled in the race.
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The late qualifier, Serpentine, failed to back up from its second-place finish last weekend at the Lexus Archer Stakes, falling away badly after earlier being part of the leading pack.
All horses are reportedly fine and are undergoing the customary post-race inspections.
Interpretation back in the pre-parade and OK after pulling up in the Melbourne Cup @Racing pic.twitter.com/ySX1B74RRa
— James Tzaferis (@jtzaf) November 1, 2022
Meanwhile, Lunar Flare’s late scratching on the morning of the race made it five horses which had been ruled out of the Cup.
The withdrawals have been disappointing for connections who would have been hoping their horse was a chance at winning the prestigious event. Although, it is proof the standards and practices within the industry have improved in recent years.
Lunar Flare joined Point Nepean, Loft, Makram and Caulfield Cup winner Durston in being ruled out of the race.
“The specialists cannot determine whether it is old or new, or whether it is even something to be concerned about, but we must respect this,” Durston’s trainer, Chris Waller, said.
“It is all about safety for the horse, and for the rider and the longevity of the horses.
“It is very disappointing for all connections of the horse, as well as my stable, because so much time and effort goes into these horses. It’s just heartbreaking.
“Durston is sound. He galloped well on Tuesday morning and my vet trotted him up following this however we must respect modern science and learn from this.”
