Ride Like a Girl is a biographical sports film based on the true story of Michelle Payne, who became the first female jockey to win the Melbourne Cup in 2015. Raised in a family of ten siblings in rural Australia, Michelle's dream to become a jockey was fueled by her love for horses and her father's encouragement.
The film follows the struggles and challenges Michelle faces as a female jockey in a male-dominated sport, including dealing with prejudice from trainers and other jockeys. Despite the odds and setbacks, Michelle perseveres and manages to secure a ride in the Melbourne Cup, the most prestigious horse race in Australia.
With the support of her family, including her devoted father, brother Stevie, who has Down syndrome, and her trainer, Darren Weir, Michelle overcomes obstacles and defies expectations to win the race with a longshot horse named Prince of Penzance.
Ride Like a Girl is a heartwarming story of determination, family, and breaking barriers, highlighting the importance of following your dreams and believing in yourself. Starring Teresa Palmer as Michelle and Sam Neill as her father, the film was directed by Rachel Griffiths and released in 2019.