Prince-of-Penzance-Michelle-Payne-31 FINALThe Melbourne Cup stops the nation and this year’s event also moved it as never before. Jockey Michelle Payne made history as the first woman to win the Cup in 155 years but it was her brother and strapper, Steven Payne who has Down syndrome, who won the hearts of the crowd.

A strapper for nearly 10 years he also backed the horse, Prince of Penzance, and drew barrier one for the race. If there was an omen in there that would have to be it.

Photo credit: Sharon Lee Chapman