She's a Winner! How Many Mares and Lady Jockeys Have Conquered the Melbourne Cup?
The Melbourne Cup, Australia's "race that stops a nation," is all about the drama, the fashion (questionable fascinators and all!), and of course, the thoroughbred horses thundering down the track. But have you ever stopped to wonder, just how many fillies have taken home the Cup glory?
 |
| How Many Females Have Won The Melbourne Cup |
It's a Sausage Fest (Mostly)
QuickTip: Check if a section answers your question.
Let's be honest, the Melbourne Cup trophy has seen its fair share of hoof prints, but most of them belong to our fine equine gentlemen. Out of the 163 Melbourne Cups run so far, a whopping 147 winners have been stallions or geldings (castrated males). That's a lot of testosterone in the winner's circle!
Tip: Absorb, don’t just glance.
But Mares Make Their Mark!
However, fear not, ladies! The fairer sex of the horse world has not been completely shut out. Mares have actually won a respectable 13 Melbourne Cups. That's right, these incredible females have proven they have the stamina, the speed, and the heart to conquer the grueling 3200m race. And a special shout out to the legendary Makybe Diva, who holds the record for the most Melbourne Cup wins by a mare with an impressive three victories!
QuickTip: Reading regularly builds stronger recall.
 |
Where Are the Wonder Women on Horseback?
Now, let's talk about jockeys. While female jockeys are becoming increasingly prominent in the racing world, the Melbourne Cup has proven a bit of a glass ceiling. In the entire history of the race, only two female jockeys have ridden a Melbourne Cup winner. The history-making Michelle Payne on Prince of Penzance in 2015 smashed through those barriers, proving that women can ride just as well (if not better) than the men! Verry Elleegant in 2021 continued the winning streak for mares, but with jockey James McDonald in the saddle.
QuickTip: A slow read reveals hidden insights.
So, will we see a female jockey win the Melbourne Cup one day? You bet your fascinator on it! With more and more talented female jockeys coming up the ranks, it's only a matter of time before another wonder woman claims Melbourne Cup glory.
FAQ: How to Get Involved in the Melbourne Cup?
Here are some quick answers to frequently asked questions:
- How to attend the Melbourne Cup? Tickets go on sale in early spring. Be prepared, they sell out fast!
- How to choose a winning horse? Do your research, study form guides, and maybe throw a lucky horseshoe in for good measure.
- How to watch the Melbourne Cup? Tune in to the free broadcast on major networks, or head to a pub with a big screen.
- How to place a bet? For adults only, of course! There are many online and in-person betting options available. But remember, gamble responsibly!
- How to impress your friends with Melbourne Cup trivia? Now you can tell them all about the mares and female jockeys who have made their mark on this legendary race!
 |
