
30th October 2019, 01:03 AM
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Member
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Join Date: Nov 2013
Posts: 599
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I hadn't mentioned it earlier as I was waiting for further information, but there were some concerns regarding the fitness of Marmelo and Ispolini. They were sent for scans when soreness was detected by a Racing Victoria vet. The results of those scans were subsequently forwarded to their trainers - presumably so they could make some hard decisions or undertake further investigation prior to the "official" vet checks of the top Cup candidates this weekend.
I can understand that Racing Victoria are especially cautious regarding the physical capabilities of each potential runner. I think I remember reading that only one of the past 5 runnings of the Melbourne Cup hasn't had a runner that sadly died during or immediately after the race. If they can prevent such an occurence happening again by being hyper-viligant with the physical well-being of candidates, then I am all for it. If it's found to be of benefit, I would hope such vigilance is extended to every race on the calendar.
The issue is of particular relevance now given the recently publicised results of the ABC's investigation into retired horses and the increasing anti-Cup sentiment from the general public.
I have to admit: I have huge ethical concerns regarding the whole racehorse industry. I honestly would much prefer to be talking about humans participating in these races, than horses from whom we can't clearly ascertain whether they want to be involved or not. I don't have a background with horses at all and I'm mostly in love with the amount of data available. I've certainly learnt that horses are incredible athletes along the way, but the post-race future (or even pre-race existence) of thoroughbred horses is an issue that I'm not at all comfortable with.
That being said, I am very pleased to read of Hughie Morrison's confidence regarding Marmelo: "I didn't see having a scan as a problem," Morrison said. "We know this horse incredibly well. Tom (his handler) has ridden him since he was a baby. I have known him since he was a two-year-old.
"Tom, who has loved him for three years, said he is moving as well as ever and Hughie (Bowman) rode him today and said he worked better this time than he did this time last year.
"All roads lead to next Tuesday.
"He was x-rayed and cleared before he came and he was x-rayed last week. His x-rays showed no difference to this time last year and I think the CT scan, from what I have heard, I don't think it's significant.
"I think his form is probably on a similar level."
Similar news for the Godolphin pair who underwent scans, Cross Counter and Ispolini:
"We were very happy with both of them today," foreman Chris Connett said from Werribee. "We have been happy with them the whole trip.
"Regarding Cross Counter, he had a slight filling in his left front and on vet inspection by Grace Forbes, she was a little concerned.
"We took some x-rays, which we were happy with. We were invited to go for a standing CT, which we did on Saturday, and we have been passed clear. We are very happy with that.
"With regards to Ispolini, when he arrived here RV vet Grace Forbes was not exactly happy with his action and invited us to go for a standing CT.
"Those results have come back and the team back home are looking at those. He went for a scan yesterday (Monday) at Ballarat. When we get the results back from there the team back home and the vets here will have a discussion and decide what we want to do.
"They both look good to my eye. They haven't missed a day of training while they have been here. Their gallops have been good and at the moment we are full steam ahead.
"As long as we get the okay, they will work tomorrow."
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