It's the journey that reads like something from an Australian sporting fairytale - from the dusty tracks of Port Hedland to the hallowed turf of Flemington, Western Australian jockey Damian Lane is about to realise his ultimate racing dream.
The Bunbury-born hoop has been confirmed to ride Serpentine in the 2024 Melbourne Cup, marking his long-awaited debut in the race that stops a nation.
A Teenage Dream Realised
"It's something I've dreamed about since I was a teenager," Lane revealed, the significance of the moment not lost on the accomplished jockey. "Growing up in WA, watching the Melbourne Cup every year with my family, it was always the pinnacle."
Lane's path to Australia's most famous race began in remote Port Hedland, where he first learned his craft before moving to Bunbury to pursue his racing ambitions seriously.
The Perfect Partnership
His mount, Serpentine, brings compelling credentials to the $8.4 million handicap. The 2020 Derby winner, now trained by the powerful Ciaron Maher and David Eustace stable, represents one of the most intriguing chances in this year's Cup.
"He's a proven stayer with Group 1 form," Lane noted with obvious excitement. "To have my first Cup ride on a horse of his quality is more than I could have hoped for."
Western Australia's Racing Pride
Lane's achievement adds another chapter to Western Australia's rich racing history. The state has produced some of Australia's finest jockeys, and Lane now joins that elite group with his Melbourne Cup qualification.
The 30-year-old has already amassed an impressive resume, including victories in the Cox Plate, Caulfield Cup, and multiple Group 1 wins across Australia and internationally. Yet the Melbourne Cup remained the final frontier.
The Road to Flemington
Lane's journey through the racing ranks has been methodical and impressive:
- Beginning in regional Western Australia tracks
- Moving to Bunbury for apprenticeship
- Establishing himself in Perth metropolitan racing
- Making the successful transition to Eastern states racing
- Building an international profile in Japan and Hong Kong
Now, on the first Tuesday in November, all those steps lead to Flemington's famous straight, where Lane and Serpentine will chase racing immortality.
"It's the race every Australian jockey wants to win," Lane said, the anticipation clear in his voice. "To have the opportunity now, it's everything I've worked for."
