Showing she could do more than just race horses to victory, Payne was an impressive performer in the event, which was a drawcard of the two-day Victorian Polo Association Championships.

Teenage rider Lucinda Doodt and trainer Archie Alexander, both from Ballarat, were also involved.

In a battle between jockeys and trainers, it was the jockeys team – captained by Payne – that ultimately won the match after scoring a last-gasp major.

Monday’s event was also part of Racing Victoria’s Off the Track program, which is designed to help retired thoroughbred horses make the transition into another career.

Off the Track officer James Tzaferis told The Courier the event played an important role. 

“Whether they were superstars or one-start maidens who finished last, it shows there are other career options for these horses,” Tzaferis said.

Payne rode an eight-year-old Commands mare that raced as Got It, which retired after five unsuccessful starts.

As for Payne’s skills, Tzaferis said the Melbourne Cup-winning jockey held her own.

“Michelle was pretty handy,” Tzaferis said.

“She had already had a go at polo previously, so she knew her stuff.”