Payne makes Melbourne Cup history

Michelle Payne kept her composure to claim the Melbourne Cup, becoming the first female jockey to win Australia’s biggest race on Tuesday.

The 30-year-old got off to a strong start while biding her time until well into the final straight before stepping it up a gear at the 200-metre mark.

Payne eventually overcame a late surge by Max Dynamite, beating odds of 100-1 as she steered rank outsider Prince of Penzance to victory. Her cup win could possibly be her last ride with Payne foreshadowing retirement just two days before the race.

It was a frustrating day for many of the foreign-trained horses, transported across the world at huge expense. Japanese favourite Fame Game and Sky Hunter finished 13th and 22nd respectively.