Michelle Payne became the first woman to win the Melbourne Cup, and her brother is breaking down barriers, too

Michelle and Stevie Payne did more than win the biggest horse race in Australia, they broke down barriers. The Melbourne Cup was decided overnight and jockey Michelle became the first woman to ever win the most prestigious event in Australian horse racing. By her side was her brother, Stevie -- who sent a message of his own.

Stevie has Down syndrome, which is important only insofar that the Melbourne Cup win helped demolish stigma towards people with disabilities, and prove that anyone can do amazing things in sports. Stevie isn’t just a jockey’s brother, he’s one of the best strappers in the sport. This involves caring for the horses, saddling them for the track and on Tuesday he helped Michelle by picking No.1 at the barrier draw.

Michelle is immensely proud of her brother, telling ABC Sport.

“I think it’s great for other people with Down syndrome to see how capable they can be in normal life.”

The pair are now the toast of the town. Their hard work and dedication won a horse race, but their bond means they have already achieved something more valuable.

h/t Buzzfeed