Where is Michelle Payne Now? Does Michelle Payne Still Ride?
by Madhumitha | Updated Nov 09, 2023
Where is Michelle Payne Now?
Michelle Payne, the jockey who made history by winning the 2015 Melbourne Cup, has announced her retirement from racing. At 38, she's decided to shift her focus to training horses after this season. Michelle shared that the decision came as she almost didn't qualify for a racing license this year due to reduced racing activity, signaling it was time for a change.
Having achieved her ultimate goal of winning the Melbourne Cup, Michelle feels that after eight years, now is the right moment to step back. She faced challenges in her racing career, including six major concussions, and now looks forward to a break from the physical strain of competitive racing. While she'll miss the adrenaline rush of being a jockey, Michelle is excited about training horses and having more time for socializing and adventure.
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Does Michelle Payne Still Ride?
No, Michelle Payne has decided to retire from racing after the current season. She made this choice to focus on training horses instead. Michelle, who famously won the Melbourne Cup in 2015, shared that she almost didn't qualify for a racing license this year because she hadn't been racing as much.
This became a sign for her to step away from being a jockey. While she won't be actively riding in races anymore, Michelle is looking forward to dedicating her time to training horses and exploring new adventures.
Who is Michelle Payne?
Michelle J. Payne OAM, born on September 29, 1985, is an Australian jockey who made history by winning the 2015 Melbourne Cup. Riding Prince of Penzance, she became the first and only female jockey to achieve this remarkable feat. Michelle's victory in the prestigious event marked a groundbreaking moment in horse racing, showcasing her skill and determination.
Her accomplishment not only earned her recognition but also inspired many, breaking gender barriers in the sport. Michelle J. Payne's contribution to Australian horse racing is celebrated, and she remains a trailblazer for women in the field.
Full Name
Michelle J. Payne
Birth Date
29 September 1985
Birth Place
Australia
Age
38
Parents
Paddy and Mary Payne
Michelle Payne Suspension
In June 2017, Michelle Payne faced a setback in her racing career when she tested positive for the banned drug phentermine, an appetite suppressant, during a urine test at the Swan Hill Cup meeting on June 11, 2017. As a result, she was stood down from racing and underwent an inquiry by Racing Victoria stewards on June 29, 2017. Michelle admitted guilt and received a four-week ban until July 21, 2017. She expressed regret for not seeking more guidance and took full responsibility for the situation.
Despite this suspension, Michelle Payne continued to make positive contributions to the horse racing community, transitioning her goals from being a jockey to becoming a trainer. She received recognition for her inspiring achievements, including the Don Award in October 2016 and the Longines Ladies Award in May 2017. Michelle also engages in speaking at conferences in Australia and internationally, sharing her inspiring story.
Michelle Payne Injury
In May 2016, Michelle Payne experienced a serious injury during a race fall at Mildura. She suffered severe abdominal injuries, including a torn pancreas, and had to undergo urgent surgery to save the organ. The surgeons successfully saved her pancreas, preventing her from developing diabetes.
The injury forced Michelle to take a break from racing to recover. Despite the challenging situation, she showed resilience and determination. Michelle returned to racing in September 2016, demonstrating her courage and commitment to the sport. Her injury marked a significant moment in her career, but she managed to overcome it and continued to pursue her passion for horse racing.
Michelle Payne Family
Michelle Payne, the youngest of ten children, was born to Paddy and Mary Payne. Raised on a farm in Miners Rest, near Ballarat in central Victoria, Australia, Michelle faced early challenges as her mother, Mary, passed away in a motor vehicle crash when Michelle was just six months old. This tragic event left her father, Paddy, to raise the ten children on his own. Despite the hardships, Michelle held onto her dream of becoming a winning jockey, expressing her ambition to win the Melbourne Cup since the age of seven.
She attended Our Lady Help of Christians primary school and Loreto College, Ballarat. Following in the footsteps of her siblings, Michelle entered the world of racing at the age of 15, driven by her passion for the sport. Additionally, she carries Irish New Zealand heritage, adding to the unique tapestry of her background.
Michelle Payne Age
Michelle Payne was born on September 29, 1985, which makes her currently 38 years old as of 2023. The Australian jockey has achieved significant milestones in her career, including being the first and only female jockey to win the prestigious Melbourne Cup in 2015. Despite facing challenges and setbacks, Michelle's determination and passion for horse racing have defined her journey in the sport.
Where is Michelle Payne Now? Does Michelle Payne Still Ride?-FAQs
Michelle Payne is currently transitioning from her career as a jockey to focusing on training horses.
No, Michelle Payne has retired from racing after the current season and is now concentrating on training horses.
Michelle Payne decided to retire due to a decreased racing activity, almost not qualifying for a racing license this year.
Michelle Payne's next career move involves dedicating herself to training horses and shifting away from being an active jockey.
Yes, Michelle Payne is still active in the horse racing community as a trainer, contributing her expertise to the sport.