Wednesday 5 November 2014

New Mebourne Measures After Araldo Death


New safety measures have been introduced at Flemington Racecourse after a "freak accident" led to the death of a Melbourne Cup horse.

Seventh-placed Araldo was spooked by a flag being waved as he walked down a pathway to the mounting yard after Tuesday's race.

The horse suffered a serious leg injury and was later euthanised.

It came after Japanese-trained favourite Admire Rakti collapsed and died after the race.

Restrictions on where horses walk after Group One races and the use of flags by spectators, plus additional security, will be introduced.

The measures were recommended after an inquiry involving Racing Victoria (RV), the Victoria Racing Club (VRC) and the Victorian Jockeys' Association.

In the 35 years before the 2014 event, three Melbourne Cup horses suffered fatal injuries.

RV chairman of stewards Terry Bailey said: "The incident involving Araldo was a freak accident and something that we have not seen previously.

"However, we have taken these interim measures for the remainder of the carnival and will discuss the long-term procedures with the VRC following its completion."

The Melbourne Cup Carnival runs from 1 to 8 November.


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