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Melbourne Cup: Michelle Payne speaks following historic win

Michelle Payne was the story of the Spring Carnival, winning 2015's Melbourne Cup. (AAP Image/Dan Himbrechts)
3rd November, 2015
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On Tuesday Michelle Payne made Australian racing history by becoming the first female jockey to ride to victory in the Melbourne Cup.

Her horse, Prince of Penzance, started the race as a $101 outsider, becoming one of just a handful of horses to ever win the race from odds greater than $100.

More 2015 Melbourne Cup:
>> 2015 Melbourne Cup: Who won, came last
>> Full finishing order
>> Full report on Red Cadeaux
>> Melbourne Cup live blog
>> Melbourne Cup winners and losers

Speaking to the media following the win, Payne was understandably elated with her achievement.

“It’s like a dream come true, this horse is awesome,” Payne said.

“What he has been through, unbelievable training to get him here like this today.

“This is everybody’s dream as a jockey in Australia and now probably the world.”

She also used the opportunity to inspire fellow females in the racing industry.

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“It’s a very male dominated sport, and people think we’re not strong enough and all the rest of it.

“But you know what, it’s not all about strength, there’s so much more involved, it’s getting the horse in a rhythm, it’s getting the horse to try for you, it’s being patient.

“I’m so glad to win the Melbourne Cup, and hopefully it will help female jockeys from now on.”

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