A statue of history-making jockey Michelle Payne has been unveiled at Flemington Racecourse, honoring her 2015 Melbourne Cup victory. Payne became the first woman to win Australia's most prestigious horse race, riding the 100-1 outsider Prince of Penzance.
The statue, created by sculptor Judith Leman, is only the fifth at Flemington, placing Payne alongside racing icons Bart Cummings and Roy Higgins, and equine legends Phar Lap and Makybe Diva.
Victoria Racing Club chairman Neil Wilson said the moment captivated Australia and remains fondly remembered. He noted that Payne has become an inspiration to young female jockeys and anyone who dares to dream.
Payne described the honor as an unbelievable privilege, noting that the statue captures the strength and resilience needed to achieve a goal like winning the Melbourne Cup. She reflected on the changing times, as more female jockeys like Jamie Kah have since won the cup.
