Racing Victoria CEO Aaron Morrison believes it is now indisputable that the sports tough veterinary protocols have made the Melbourne Cup a safer race, after the entire field returned safely on Tuesday.
Morrison paid credit to his veterinary staff and Melbourne Cup trainers for the safe race, with his year’s edition the fifth year in a row where the race has not seen a fatality.
The safety of the Cup has been heavily scrutinised following a number of deaths in the race with the tough new veterinary protocols introduced in 2021.
This year’s winner Half Yours received a slight cut to its mouth but did not require treatment.
Buckaroo, who finished last, is believed to have suffered EIPH but his trainer Chris Waller told Betsy post-race his runner was doing well.
“What an incredible Melbourne Cup it was with Jamie Melham fulfilling her destiny in joining Michelle Payne as a winner of Australia’s greatest race. She is a champion rider who transcends racing and she produced a grand final ride today,” Morrison said
“It was also an amazing training performance by Tony and Calvin McEvoy. In the space of six months, they have taken Half Yours from a benchmark country winner to just the 13th horse to complete the coveted Caulfield and Melbourne Cup double.
“It was very pleasing to see all horses return safely to their stables for the fifth consecutive Melbourne Cup. Our world first veterinary protocols have created plenty of discussion since their introduction in 2021. What can’t be disputed is that they have played an important role in mitigating the risk of serious injury in the Cup.
“I’m very proud of our veterinary team and stewards and the work they’ve done in helping to deliver another Melbourne Cup free of serious injuries. Credit must also go to each of the trainers and their stable staff who presented their horses for the Cup in tremendous order.”
