Michelle Payne’s enthusiasm to win on Jumpin Jack Cash at Moonee Valley has earned her an enforced post-carnival holiday.
Payne, who is third on the state premiership table with 39 winners this season, was suspended for 12 meetings after causing interference to three horses near the 400 metres of Saturday’s Programmed Property Services Handicap (3000m).
Jumpin Jack Cash winning the Programmed Property Services Handicap at Moonee Valley - photo by Race Horse Photos Australia
Stewards took into account Payne’s good record when arriving at her penalty which starts on Sunday night and runs to midnight on December 1.
The suspension soured the thrill Payne got from Jumpin Jack Cash’s 1-1/2 length win over Palmero and Flash O’Brilliance, who was 2-3/4 lengths back in third place.
The winner is trained by Payne’s brother Patrick and is close to the jockey’s heart.
“He is such a tough, honest galloper and I just love riding him,” Payne said.
“You know he is going to give you his best every time.”
Payne was grateful for the support she’s had this season to elevate her on the jockeys’ table behind only Craig Newitt and Dean Yendall.
“I have had a lot of support from my brother Patrick and Darren Weir and a lot of other trainers who have given me a lot of quality rides,” Payne said.
“I just try to make the most of every one.”
Patrick Payne said six-year-old Jumpin Jack Cash, who has won five of his 23 starts, including twice over 3000 metres at the Valley in his past three runs, had bad knees.
“You’ve got to admire what he’s done,” Payne said.
“He’s got a fair bit of arthritis in his knees and does a good job to perform as well as he does every start.
“He’s not over blessed with ability but he tries very hard.”
AAP TURF
