Michelle Payne’s historic 2015 Melbourne Cup win has been forever immortalised thanks to actress/director Rachel Griffiths. 

The win saw Payne become the first female jockey to win the prestigious race in its 155year history. The film begins in the starting gates on that momentous day in 2015, before flashing back to Payne’s early life from which the story begins.

The film is packed with phenomenal Australian and international talent including Australia’s sweetheart Teresa Palmer as Michelle, Sullivan Stapleton as Melbourne Cup winning trainer Darren Weir, Brooke Satchwell as Therese Payne Michelle’s older sister and veteran Sam Neill who plays father, Paddy Payne. It also sees the acting debut of Stevie Payne who does an exceptional job bringing his sister’s story to life on screen. 

You would never know this is Griffiths’ first time directing a feature film after spending a decade in front of the camera. From heartstopping racing to extraordinary shots that showcase Victoria’s beautiful landscape, she really is a natural director. 

From a young child dreaming of winning the Melbourne Cup to a fall that almost ended her career, the ups and downs of this heart-warming real-life story is one for the ages. 

No matter your age or gender, whether you’re a horse lover or not, ‘Ride Like a Girl’ is about much more than a horse race. It shows that with determination, hard work and persistence you can achieve anything you put your mind to.