Female jockeys are making a significant impact on the racing scene in northern Western Australia. Once a rarity, women now outnumber men in apprentice programs, showcasing their talent and determination in the male-dominated industry. This shift is evident in the country cups across the Pilbara, Kimberley, and Gascoyne regions, where women have triumphed in seven out of ten races this season.
21-year-old Holly Nottle, a first-year jockey apprentice, recently made headlines by winning the Port Hedland Cup, marking a promising start to her career. The success of female jockeys is not confined to Western Australia; it is a trend seen nationwide. In Victoria, Queensland, and New South Wales, women represent a significant majority of apprentice jockeys, reflecting a growing interest and participation in the sport.
Industry veteran Kyra Yuill, the first female jockey to win the Perth Cup, acknowledges the challenges women face in racing but emphasizes the importance of hard work and perseverance. With role models like Yuill and Kate Pateman, who was named Country Racing WA’s Leading Jockey in 2025, young jockeys like Holly Nottle are inspired to excel and learn from the experiences of those who paved the way.
The rise of female jockeys can be attributed to various factors, including the tradition of family connections and early involvement in equestrian activities. Weight restrictions in horse racing also favor women, as they are often smaller in stature, meeting the strict weight requirements essential for a successful jockey career. This has opened doors for more women to enter and thrive in the racing industry.
Ten years have passed since Michelle Payne’s historic Melbourne Cup victory, the first and only female jockey to achieve this feat. With the increasing presence of women in racing, industry experts predict that another female cup winner is on the horizon. Sharyn Lancaster, overseeing the jockey racing program for Racing WA, believes that the Melbourne Cup will see more female contenders in the coming years, setting the stage for another groundbreaking victory.
As female jockeys continue to shine on the track and break barriers in the racing world, their success not only challenges stereotypes but also inspires a new generation of aspiring riders. With a supportive community and a level playing field, women are proving that talent and determination know no gender boundaries in the thrilling world of horse racing.
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