BBC SPORT | Other Sports | Horse Racing | Emotional triumph for jockey

Jockey Damien Oliver paid a poignant tribute following his Melbourne Cup triumph just a week after his brother died in a riding accident.

Damien steered Irish raider Media Puzzle to an impressive victory in Australia's big race at Flemington.

Media Puzzle wins Aussie classic

His brother Jason Oliver died after his mount collapsed during a track trial in Perth a week earlier.

When Damien confirmed he would ride Media Puzzle in the Melbourne Cup, punters latched onto the horse and made him one of the favourites.

I know you're up there watching Jason - and this one's for you

Damien Oliver pays tribute to his brother

And Damien, wearing the J. Oliver riding breeches in honor of his brother, rewarded their faith.

Media Puzzle stormed ahead in the straight to win by two lengths from Mr Prudent and Beekeeper.

Ray Oliver, the father of Damien and Jason, also died in a racing accident in 1975.

Choking back tears afterwards, Damien said: "The Melbourne Cup doesn't mean anything to me any more.

Damien Oliver and Media Puzzle are cheered after their victory
Oliver and Media Puzzle take the plaudits

"I'd give it away right now to have my brother back.

"To my brother Jason, I know you're up there mate. I couldn't have done it without you buddy so this one's for you."

It was Damien's second Melbourne Cup win, following his success on Doriemus in 1995.

Ireland's Dermot Weld, the only European trainer to claim the southern hemisphere's biggest racing title, was also celebrating his second Melbourne Cup triumph.

Weld, who first won the race in 1993 with Vintage Crop, also trained the fourth horse Vinnie Roe in the 2002 running.


	Links to more Horse Racing stories