The presence of females in sport has grown significantly in the past decade, but there are fewer industries that have represented this societal shift better than racing. With girls taking over the apprentice jockey schools, training ranks, and flying the flag for us overseas, it’s no wonder the girls have such a strong hand in the race that stops the nation.
For the first time in history, we have four female jockeys vying for their chance to take home the Melbourne Cup.
The in-form Jamie Kah will saddle up on one of the live chances in the race, Okita Soushi, broken nose and all. Okita Soushi ran eleventh in last year’s edition of the race when trained by Joseph O’Brien. This year, in the hands of Ciaron Maher, the pair hope to utilise the horses front-running abilities to bring Jamie Kah her first Cup.
International superstar Hollie Doyle is on the highly-fancied Sea King from the inside gate. With Hollie’s form recently and the Sea King’s impressive win in the Bendigo Cup, Hollie is well in contention to become the first international female jockey to take home Australia’s prized silverware.
Winona Costin is riding in her debut Melbourne Cup with her family’s long association with the race; a seat in this race means the world to the lightweight rider as it is.
Rachel King returns to Aussie soils for a tough task aboard The Map Having secured a spot in the Melbourne Cup with a victory in the Andrew Ramsden, The Map has been primed for the race. The Map will rely on Rachel’s tactical expertise from the wide draw of barrier 23, but the horse is a proven stayer.
On top of the four jockeys featured in the Cup, there will also be six female trainers helping set a new standard within our sport. With Annabel Neasham, Gai Waterhouse, Debbie Rogerson, Sheila Laxon, Natalie Young, and Oopy Macgillivray all saddling up contenders for our prestigious race, the 2024 Melbourne Cup will be a race that ignites the fire of inspiration within every young girl watching.
Isabella King
