Record female jockey participation in the Melbourne Cup this year is worthy of celebration, writes Michelle Payne, as she analyses this year’s field. It is all we could ever hope for. Record female jockey participation in the Melbourne Cup this year is worthy of celebration.

Melbourne Cup carnival ambassador Michelle Payne runs an expert eye over every runner in Tuesday’s great race...Vauban (FRA) 7yoG 55.5kgTrainer: Willie MullinsJockey: William BuickBarrier: 11Career: 20: 8-5-2.

Past winners Gai Waterhouse and Sheila Laxon headline a list of six female trainers involved this year, with Just Fine and winner Knight's Choice respectively. They are joined by Annabel Neasham (Fancy Man), Debbie Rogerson (Sharp 'N' Smart), Natalie Young (Mostly Cloudy) and Oopy MacGillivray (The Map).

Nine years after trailblazer Michelle Payne became the first woman to ride a Melbourne Cup winner, a record contingent of four female jockeys will attempt to become the second.

Want to pick the Cup winner based on the horse's name, the most successful barriers, or the number on the saddle cloth? This guide has got you covered.

Racing greats Michelle Payne and Glenn Boss both agree on which horse has the potential to blow the rest of the field away in this year's Melbourne Cup.