The Melbourne Cup: A Trophy Not Just for the Boys (But Mostly for the Boys... So Far)
The Melbourne Cup – Australia's "race that stops a nation" (or at least makes it glue itself to the TV for a few hours). Fast horses, fancy hats, and enough champagne corks popping to rival New Year's Eve. But what about the jockeys? Those fearless folks steering these magnificent beasts towards glory? Have any women ever taken home the Melbourne Cup trophy? Buckle up, because this is where things get interesting.
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| How Many Female Jockeys Have Won The Melbourne Cup |
She'll Be Coming Around the Mountain... Eventually?
For over 160 years, the Melbourne Cup winners' circle has been a testosterone-fueled zone. That's not to say there haven't been amazing female jockeys competing. The first woman to ever ride in the Cup was the trailblazing Maree Lyndon in 1987. Now that's what you call breaking barriers! It took another 16 years for the first Australian woman, Claire Lindop, to take the reins in the big race.
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The Glass Slipper Finally Fits: Michelle Payne Makes History
Then, in 2015, something magical happened. A jockey named Michelle Payne, with nerves of steel and a whole lot of talent, defied the odds. Riding Prince of Penzance, she became the first – and so far, only – woman to win the Melbourne Cup. It was a monumental moment, not just for horseracing, but for anyone who ever doubted the incredible skill and determination of female athletes.
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So, is the Melbourne Cup Turning the Corner for Women Jockeys?
Maybe, maybe not. While Michelle Payne's win was a giant leap forward, it's still a pretty lonely place at the top for female jockeys in the Cup. Fast forward to 2021, and the winner was... a horse, ridden by a man. Back to the drawing board, then? Not necessarily. There are more and more talented female jockeys coming through the ranks, so hopefully, it's just a matter of time before we see another history-making win.
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FAQ: Melbourne Cup and Female Jockeys
How to become a jockey? Dedication, training, and nerves of steel are key! Research jockey schools and programs in your area.
Tip: Reread tricky sentences for clarity.
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How many horses have won the Melbourne Cup? A whopping 36 different horses have claimed Cup glory.
How can I watch the Melbourne Cup? Tune in to the race broadcast on TV or head to a local pub or club showing the event. (Just be prepared for the enthusiastic crowds!)
How much prize money does the Melbourne Cup winner get? The winner's purse is currently around AUD$8 million – enough to buy a pretty fancy new stable for your horses (or a very large hat).
How do I celebrate a Melbourne Cup win (win or lose)? Crack open a celebratory beverage (responsibly, of course) and cheer on all the amazing jockeys and horses!
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