Bauer is currently fighting for his life after complications arose following stomach surgery last week.

The loveable stayer was rushed to the vet over a week ago when he developed a temperature and went off his feed.

Melbourne Cup runner-up turned Clerk of the Course horse Bauer is fighting for his life after suffering colic and a twisted intestine. Photo by: Taron Clarke

He was immediately diagnosed with a twisted bowel and underwent surgery to rectify the problem.

Whilst he was originally given the all clear and allowed to go home, Bauer’s condition began to deteriorate and he was once again rushed to Goulburn Valley Veterinary Surgery.

Bauer is currently being looked after by Graham Salisbury in Victoria as he completes his training to be a clerk of the course horse.

Salisbury, who was the owner of Melbourne Cup winner Subzero, was not optimistic about Bauer’s outlook.

“It’s touch and go,” Salisbury said.

“The chances are only 40-60.

“He’s had colic and a twisted intestine.”

Bauer has enjoyed a spectacular career that saw him almost claim the prestigious Melbourne Cup in 2008, when he was beaten to the line by a nose by Viewed.

The ten-year-old grey gelding was trained in England by Luca Cumani before making the permanent move to retire in Australia.

The Halling gelding has won seven of his 26 race starts and has earned more than $1.1 million in prize money.

He was sent to Australia in the hope of finally securing a Melbourne Cup victory last year, however, failed to make the field by just one horse.

Bauer proved he was still on top of his game during his final spring campaign, posting a fast finishing third in the Group 3 Geelong Cup behind eventual Melbourne Cup winner Dunaden.

The gelding looked like the probably winner of the race, however, was disappointed for a run in the final straight.

Bauer then went on to place a gallant fourth in the Group 3 Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Flemington Racecourse in his final race start.