This was published 11 years ago
Tragedy and glory at the Melbourne Cup
Protectionist has won the Melbourne Cup, completing an international clean sweep of Australia's richest spring races.
In beating a brave Red Cadeaux and Who Shot Thebarman, Protectionist delivered Germany's first Melbourne Cup win.
However, the race had a tragic end with favourite, Japanese stayer Admire Rakti, dying and another horse, Araldo, fighting for its life.
The sad news tarnished a Cup day that had started in typically glamorous fashion, with some of the country's biggest stars stealing the limelight.
Protectionist crosses the line in the 2014 Melbourne Cup. (AAP)
Red Cadeaux finished second for the third time. (Getty)
Jockey Ryan Moore raises the cup triumphantly. (AAP)
Connections of Protectionist celebrate the win. (AAP)
Favourite Admire Rakti died after the race. (AAP)
The Japanese stayer collapsed in its stall before dying. (AAP)
A green tarpaulin covers Admire Rakti's stall following the race. (AAP)
Admire Rakti's owner Riichi Kondo after hearing the news. (AAP)
