Michelle Payne

Michelle Payne is a former Australian jockey who became the first woman to win the Melbourne Cup in 2015. Born on a farm in Victoria, Australia, Payne grew up surrounded by horses and developed a passion for racing from a young age. She won her first race at 15 and went on to become one of the most successful jockeys in Australian racing history. Payne has been open about her struggles with mental health and her experiences as a woman in a male-dominated sport. She has also been involved in various charitable initiatives, including working with the Australian Jockeys' Association to promote women's participation in racing.