Protectionist wins Melbourne Cup; favorite dies (The Associated Press)

Ryan Moore rode German stallion Protectionist to victory in the Melbourne Cup on Tuesday in a race marred by the death of favorite Admire Ratki. Red Cadeaux strode to the lead in the last straight of the 2-mile classic but was overhauled on the inside by five-year-old Protectionist, which went on to win by four lengths in only its 10th race start. ”We’ve had great success all over the world but that’s the biggest of all,” said winning trainer Andreas Wohler. It’s a big achievement from our team.” Red Cadeaux placed second for the third time in four starts in Australia’s richest horse race, becoming the first three-time runner-up.