Racing Victoria (RV) veterinarians today completed their second round of pre-race physical veterinary inspections of all starters in tomorrow’s $8.56 million Lexus Melbourne Cup (3200m) at Flemington.
Upon examination by RV veterinarians, the John O’Shea and Tom Charlton-trained Athabascan was found to have a cardiac arrhythmia.
ECG reports and the results of blood tests were then forwarded to three independent experts specialising in equine internal medicine, including cardiology.
They each independently advised that, due to the nature of the cardiac arrhythmia, Athabascan should undergo further extensive testing before being permitted to race again on the grounds of safety.
Acting on these opinions and having considered additional material provided by the stable, RV veterinarians advised the Stewards that in their view the horse should be withdrawn from the Melbourne Cup due to an increased risk of a cardiac episode.
Accordingly, the Stewards acting on veterinary advice, ordered the withdrawal of Athabascan.
The remaining 23 horses have been passed suitable to race tomorrow.