Tributes flow for racing legend Paddy Payne Snr

Australian racing bids farewell to the distinguished Ballarat horseman Paddy Payne Snr, who passed away at the age of 90. He was widely regarded as the patriarch of one of the sport's most celebrated families.

Paddy and his late wife, Mary, were the parents of ten children, many of whom became integral figures in the racing industry, with eight pursuing successful careers as professional jockeys, thereby making the Payne surname synonymous with Australian racing.

His son, Patrick, has carved out a highly successful career, achieving Group 1 victories as both a jockey, including the 2002 Cox Plate on the renowned Northerly, and more recently as a trainer.

Patrick's daughter, Michelle, also celebrated numerous Group 1 wins, notably becoming the first female jockey to conquer the iconic Melbourne Cup in 2015 aboard Prince Of Penzance, marking a historic achievement at Flemington.

Originally from New Zealand, Payne was engaged in dairy farming and horse training during the late 1970s. It was during this period he acquired the promising yearling, Our Paddy Boy, for just $1300.

Our Paddy Boy achieved Group 1 success in the 1980 Ellerslie Sires before Payne's sale of the horse to Robert Sangster for $300,000, a considerable sum at the time. This transaction facilitated the Payne family's relocation to Ballarat, where they established their renowned training base.

Tragedy struck the family when Mary Payne was tragically killed in a car accident in 1986, leaving Paddy to raise his ten children. Further heartbreak followed with the passing of daughter Bernadette, 51, last year, and daughter Brigid, who died in 2007 from a heart attack at the age of 36.

Racing Victoria chief executive Aaron Morrison expressed his condolences, stating that Paddy Payne was the "doyen of a family that has greatly enriched Australian racing and provided us with so many great memories."

Morrison continued, "Whilst Paddy has passed, his contribution to the sport will not be forgotten and his legacy will live on." He further noted, "Paddy will be remembered as a great horseman and a loving father. His positive influence on female jockey participation cannot be undersold, having encouraged his daughters to ride at a time when female jockeys were fighting for acceptance." Morrison concluded, "He took great pride in the achievements of his children, along with their partners, and can rest peacefully in the knowledge that he has left the world a better place for his existence."

Stephen Bell, chief executive of the Australian Trainers Association, described Payne as a horseman held in high regard, possessing a Victorian trainer's licence for over 40 years. Bell commented, "His role in nurturing a family that has contributed so much to racing is legendary and something that we all respect and are thankful for."

Ballarat Turf Club chairman Bill Gribble referred to Payne as a "highly respected figure whose contribution to racing extended well beyond the racetrack." Gribble added, "Paddy was the patriarch of one of Australian racing's most remarkable families, and his influence, horsemanship and dedication to the industry will leave a lasting legacy."

Payne maintained his training activities until earlier this year, with his final starter, Nip, competing at Kilmore in March. His last winner was recorded at the age of 88 when Rosalia triumphed at Ballarat in August two years prior.

Payne Snr is survived by his children Therese, Maree, Cathy, Margaret, Patrick, Andrew, Stevie and Michelle, as well as his extended family, including his grandchildren.

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