Michelle Payne backing Katelyn Mallyon in big race

MELBOURNE Cup history maker Michelle Payne will be cheering on female hoop Katelyn Mallyon ahead of today’s big race.

Anna Byrne and Aaron Langmaid

3 min read

November 1, 2016 - 12:00AM

MELBOURNE Cup history maker Michelle Payne will be cheering on female hoop Katelyn Mallyon ahead of today’s big race.

The Ballarat champion said regardless of the result, Mallyon’s run in Race 7 would be another win for women.

“Every opportunity women get in this industry to prove themselves is amazing,’’ Payne said on Monday.

“It’s about making the most of the opportunities we are given and supporting other female jockeys coming through. Katelyn is a very confident rider.’’

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Michelle Payne with the Melbourne Cup trophy at Flemington. Picture: David Caird

Michelle Payne at the Ballarat Races. Picture: Michael Klein

Payne is also backing the National Museum of Australia. The museum has confirmed it had secured the green and white breeches worn by Payne for her triumph on Prince of Penzance last year.

Set in a frame alongside a replica set of jockey colours the breeches will be displayed in the same room as Phar Lap’s heart.

“The Melbourne Cup captivates the nation and the riding breeches are a wonderful addition to our Melbourne Cup collection,” National Museum curator Jennifer Wilson said.

“(They will sit alongside) Phar Lap’s heart and the oldest intact Melbourne Cup, from 1866.”

Payne, who will ride in three races today, says that despite her career-threatening pancreas injury in May, which left her hospitalised for weeks, potential falls and injuries never cross her mind before she rides.

“Surprisingly, I never worry about it before a race, and sometimes I even question myself as to why it doesn’t.

“But I have great faith in life, and worrying would only make life harder.

“I’m really happy to be doing what I’m doing.”

Katelyn Mallyon will ride in her first Melbourne Cup onboard the Lloyd Williams-owned Assign. Picture: Colleen Petch.

Speaking at Monday’s Call of the Card, Mallyon said she felt confident aboard Irish stayer Assign.

“I’m really looking forward to hearing the crowd roar and being out there,’’ she said.

“I’m sure the nerves will kick in later, but I’m really excited to get out there.

“I’m really happy with my horse Assign ... I’m sure we will keep each other relaxed.’’

Payne said today’s race would also be an opportunity for her to reflect on last year’s momentous occasion, which is now set to become a telemovie.

“I think I’ll remember not just the battle of the race and the experience of winning, but also just the battle to get into the race,” Payne said.

Michelle Payne rides Duke of Nottingham in the Ballarat Races. Picture: Michael Klein

“I’ve been hopeful to get on one in the Cup this year, and it’s hard. It makes you appreciate it more.

“I think it will be a really special day though, and I think I will feel really proud.”

She said she has been overwhelmed by her new-found celebrity status, and has been touched by the outpouring of affection for her brother, Stevie, who has Down syndrome.

“I couldn’t believe the reception Stevie got at the AFL Grand Final,” she said.

“He’s loving being in the spotlight, but I don’t think he will compare to Usain Bolt when he hits the track.”