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Not to be outdone by the winning double of Darren Weir, the trainer for whom she rode Prince Of Penzance for in last year’s Melbourne Cup, Payne saluted for her brother Patrick in the $1 million feature.
After beginning well from barrier five, Payne assumed a midfield position with cover aboard the four-year-old son of Husson, a $42,500 purchase at the Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sale.
Just as it looked as though race favourite Wild Rain has stolen a winning break halfway up the straight, Husson Eagle responded to Payne’s urgings with a dazzling turn of foot to win in race record time.
“It’s so great to be up here and to ride a winner on the day is just unreal, especially for my brother Patrick,” Payne said.
“He is a cheeky, little fella with a short sprint but when he gets out and everything falls into place he gives you everything he’s got and that’s all you can ask for.
While winning for her brother was sweet, Payne said it was also a thrill to score a feature race success for another big supporter, owner Joe O’Neil from Prime Thoroughbreds.
“I’d also like to thank Joe O’Neil from Prime Thoroughbreds for giving me the opportunity, Joe has been great my whole career.”
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