The turf heroine of Flemington rode like a girl, but was tough as old boots throughout a challenging career

Esteemed former Melbourne Cup victor, Michelle Payne, formally declared her impending retirement from riding, and that finally concluded in the middle of 2024. Payne ascended to unparalleled prominence by etching her name in history as the inaugural female jockey to capture the prestigious Melbourne Cup. The first since it was first run in 1861, astride the remarkable battle hardened horse, Prince of Penzance. Regrettably, following a resplendent career on the Australian racing circuit, the gritty 38-year-old athlete made the decision to bid farewell to the professional riding ranks.

Michelle Payne's life story bears a striking resemblance to a war novel. She is the youngest of ten children, raised solely by her father following the tragic loss of their mother in a car accident when Michelle was just six months old. Born into a family deeply rooted in the world of horse racing, a career in the saddle seemed like a natural path for Michelle. While her brothers and sisters stepped up, the financial burden to provide for the family fell solely on her grieving father. At the age of five she vowed to one day become the first girl to win the Melbourne Cup, the country's most famous horse race. She followed in the footsteps of seven of her siblings when she participated in her first competitive race at the age of fifteen. Her debut race took place at Ballarat, where she achieved victory aboard Reigning, a horse trained by her father, ex-pat Kiwi, Patrick "paddy" Payne. After watching her brother Patrick become the youngest person to compete in the Melbourne Cup at the age of 17, she decided she wanted to follow in his footsteps - and go one better.

During her career, Michelle has faced numerous tough challenges. In March 2004, at the age of 18, Payne fell while riding her mount, Vladivostok, in the Torbek Handicap at Sandown. Approximately 100 metres past the winning post, the horse unexpectedly collapsed, causing Payne to fall headfirst onto the turf. This incident resulted in a fractured skull and brain bruising. Subsequently, Michelle endured two additional serious falls in 2012 and May 2016. Notably, just months after her victory in the 2015 Melbourne Cup, she suffered another life-threatening fall at Mildura. This incident necessitated pancreatic surgery and an extended recovery period before her remarkable return to racing.

But in a mere three minutes Michelle Payne's life would change forever. Her ride in the 2015 cup, Prince of Penzance (by Pentire) wasn't expected to run well, but the gifted jockey believed a different story. She knew "Prince" was a special horse and that the preparation had been close to perfect. He was peaking at the right time and flew in his final gallop on the Friday before the big race, so Payne felt quietly confident. Kiwi Co-owner, Jason Richards, whom Payne thanked after the race, was adamant the resilient little Aussie should retain the ride, while others in the ownership group wanted her removed. The New Zealand bred horse had drawn barrier (1) so was likely to receive a soft run for the first half of the 3200m. If her mount could just get into a rhythm and gallop sweetly with only 53kg on his back, the horse would have the turn of foot to kick when asked. Payne bided her time until well into the straight before pushing the six-year-old gelding into top gear and powering clear of the pack 200 metres from the line - holding off Irish stayer Max Dynamite. At odds of $101 to win in Australia he was a rank outsider and had just caused one of the biggest upsets in the races history. Trainer Darren Weir was the toast of Australian racing, completing a dream of winning the Melbourne Cup after coming close to achieving that with She’s Archie (second) in Makybe Diva’s first win in the race in 2003. Weir lauded Michelle Payne's ride and the adversity she has faced competimg in a male dominated sport. Payne was less forgiving of those that have challenged her ability and gave them both barrels in a powerful voice.

Michelle thanked her entire family as she took to the podium and said she had “got the job done” for Stevie. Stevie Payne, Michelle's brother became part of Melbourne Cup folklore when he strapped the shock winner who grabbed worldwide attention. Stevie, who has made his mark despite having Down syndrome, grabbed a huge slice of the credit for Prince Of Penzance's win after drawing barrier one for the gelding on the Saturday before the race. The triumph led to parades in towns in Victoria's west while Stevie and Michelle were also crowned King and Queen of Moomba

Michelle, who waa a recent addition to ITV's pundit team at Royal Ascot, said she initially found fame overwhelming, but has learned to take it in her stride. She will always be considered as a tough, no nonsense rider that could foot it with the men and proved, girls can do anything if you just set your mind to it. Payne officially retired in July 2024.