In a stunning finish at the 149th Melbourne Cup, local colt Shocking defeated British-trained Crime Scene by three-quarters of a length, denying Godolphin their first win in the race. The four-year-old, ridden by Corey Brown, surged ahead in the final half-furlong to claim victory at odds of 9-1.
The race saw 23 runners after Irish-bred Changingoftheguard was controversially withdrawn by the vet, sparking fury from trainer David Hayes. The early pace was unusually slow, with the field bunching together until the final turn.
Shocking and Crime Scene pulled clear of the pack, battling neck and neck before Shocking edged ahead. Trainer Mark Kavanagh, watching from the paddock, erupted with joy, shouting, 'Bloody hell, I've just won the bloody Melbourne Cup!'
Third-placed Mourilyan, owned by Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov, avoided controversy despite his owner's human rights record. British hopes were dashed as Munsef finished 12th and Basaltico 18th, while trainer Saeed bin Suroor vowed, 'One day we are going to win.'
The event was as much about fashion as racing, with attendees in hats and fascinators. Winning owner Laurence Eales revealed he had a pre-written speech, adding to the day's drama.
