If the Melbourne Cup aims to broaden its appeal beyond the realm of thoroughbred enthusiasts, the 2024 race couldn't have crowned a more fitting victor. The jockey who steered outsider Knight’s Choice to triumph is better known for his stint on The Voice than for his equestrian skills. By guiding the gelding's late surge to victory, Robbie Dolan became the first widely recognized singer to win the Cup, quipping afterward, “unless … Ronan Keating hasn’t won a Melbourne Cup, has he?” Both Dolan and Keating hail from Ireland and were the focal points at Flemington on Tuesday, sharing a post-race hug. While Keating is a temporary visitor, Dolan has made Australia his permanent home, a country he holds in high regard. “If you’re willing to work hard, you’ll be rewarded,” he stated.
At 28, Dolan relocated to Australia eight years ago due to limited opportunities in his native land. Despite a family legacy in racing—his father Bobby worked for two-time Melbourne Cup winner Dermot Weld in Ireland—music nearly lured him away from the track. “I could have easily given up riding for music, but I loved it too much,” Dolan reflected. “The racing industry demands long hours and few breaks.” His musical pursuits provided a welcome diversion. “I was struggling to get rides and thought about focusing on music, but I missed the thrill of winning and the camaraderie among jockeys.”
Dolan's musical talents actually led him to Knight’s Choice trainer Sheila Laxon two years prior. “I was singing on the Melbourne Cup cruise, and Sheila was there with the Cup,” he recalled. “I met her, got a photo, and now we’ve won the Melbourne Cup.” The sense of destiny deepened when Dolan found his father—whom he thought was in Ireland—in his kitchen on Sunday. “He surprised me,” Dolan said. “I’m glad I wasn’t naked.” His father, beaming with pride, declared, “I’ve bred a Melbourne Cup winner.”
Dolan’s partner Christine orchestrated the surprise visit, and their daughter Maisie, born 15 weeks premature and spending 110 days in intensive care, has become a symbol of resilience. Dolan sings “Take Me to the River” to her as a ritual. “Maisie is taking it in stride,” Christine noted. “She’s a professional, used to the hustle and bustle.” Dolan remains deeply connected to his family, even at the pinnacle of his racing career. “Christine does everything for us, and Maisie was oblivious to my preparations for the Cup.” With celebrations planned, Dolan might miss his scheduled rides in Ipswich on Thursday, recognizing the magnitude of his and Knight’s Choice’s achievement. “You can never take this away from us, ever, that’s all that matters.”
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