Melbourne Cup 2016: Katelyn Mallyon beaming despite her 19th-placing race debut

KATELYN Mallyon is already looking forward to next year’s $6 million Melbourne Cup after making a fine debut in Saturday’s two-mile test.

Katelyn Mallyon on Assign returns to the mounting yard. Picture: Jake Nowakowski

KATELYN Mallyon is already looking forward to next year’s $6 million Melbourne Cup after making a fine debut in Saturday’s two-mile test.

Mallyon, 22, rode Assign positively from a wide barrier (22) to challenge for the lead before settling second or third in the back straight.

The six-year-old son of Montjeu lost ground in the run to the line to finish 19th behind victorious stablemate Almandin.

Still beaming 20-minutes after the Cup, Mallyon was thrilled to be riding for Lloyd and Nick Williams.

“I’m just thrilled that Mr Williams got the win,” Mallyon said.

Almandin proved too strong in the closing stages to edge out raider Heartbreak City and deliver Williams his record fifth Melbourne Cup.

Pre-race favourite Hartnell battled on gamely to finish third.

A reflective Katelyn Mallyon after the race where mount Assign finished 19th. Picture: Wayne Ludbey

Mallyon was the toast of Flemington on Tuesday as the only female jockey in the race and received a rousing reception when she was introduced to the crowd.

“It was great to have everyone behind me and I couldn’t think of a better day,” Mallyon said.

Michelle Payne shocked the racing world on Prince Of Penzance last year becoming the first female jockey to win the Melbourne Cup.

“I spoke to Michelle before the race and she gave me some helpful tips and it was really good,” Mallyon said.

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“It was really good, (Assign) gave me a really nice ride.

“I cruised across early, he gave me a wonderful ride and it was a great experience.”

Mallyon said pushing forward against the early speed wasn’t to blame for Assign tiring.

“Not necessarily, I actually cruised across at my own leisure,” Mallyon said.

Assign will likely be sent to the paddock for a freshen-up before his next campaign.

Assign and Katelyn Mallyon as they leave the straight on the first occasion. Picture: Wayne Ludbey

Originally published as Melbourne Cup 2016: Katelyn Mallyon beaming despite her 19th-placing race debut