Ryan Moore, arguably the world’s best rider piloted German stayer Protectionist to a splendid four lengths victory in the G1 Emirates Melbourne Cup. Trained by Wohler, Protectionist the least experienced in the Melbourne Cup demolished the field that boasted of a good number of accomplished gallopers.

Protectionist was held back to run last after being checked at start. As the horses went past the winning post for the first time My Ambivalent led the field in a good pace with the race favourite Admire Rakti in chase.  Protectionist pushed along to close up and be in mid-field as they approached the last three furlongs. There was something amiss in Admire Rakti and he was the first to drop out of contention as they neared the final turn even as Red Cadeeaux moved around horses to grab the lead. At one stage it looked like Moore would make his move from the outside but finding gaps between horses Protectionist maneuvered his way to charge ahead and pull off a scintillating victory. British pursuit in the Melbourne Cup remained a dream with Red Cadeaux finishing second for the third time. Who Shot Thebarman finished third.

 Admire Rakti met with a tragic end after the race. The favourite who had tailed off to finish last after racing prominently till the bend, collapsed on his way back and passed away.  

"He's a very good horse," commented Ryan Moore on Protectionist. "They went a strong pace early on and I just struggled for a position but he was able to follow Mutual Regard and it was just about finding the space. I had so much horse, he's won it easy. I'm very pleased for Andreas Wohler, he's a great trainer."

Protectionist who won the first Melbourne Cup for Germany raced for the last time under trainer Wohler as the horse would stay on in Australia with trainer Kris Lees. "It was part of the deal and we can't help it. We just have to find new ones," said trainer Wohler.