Michelle Payne wins the Melbourne Cup

"This is just awesome,'' said Michelle, after crossing the finish line.

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She described the win was a "dream come true," in a sport she called "chauvinistic." "I want to say to everyone else get stuffed because women can do anything and we can beat the world," she said.

"This win puts Aussie sportswomen front and centre on the national radar - exactly where they belong" said Women's Health acting editor Rachelle Mackintosh.

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"Michelle is an outstanding athlete who we've featured in the mag before precisely because she embodies the spirit of a true champion," she continued.

"Her win reinforces the message Women's Health has been committed to sharing for the past five years - our sportswomen are world class and deserve to be celebrated. "

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There are not many sports where you see women compete directly against men, and it's really inspiring to see Michelle come out on top.