Melbourne Cup-winning rider John Marshall dies aged 60

Melbourne Cup-winning jockey John Marshall has died, aged 60, after a battle with cancer.

Marshall guided Rogan Josh to victory in the 1999 Melbourne Cup, giving legendary trainer Bart Cummings his 11th win in the race.

The West Australian-born rider had a strong association with Cummings through the 1980s and 1990s and also won the 1987 Champagne Stakes (Sky Chase) and 1988 Australian Derby (Beau Zam) for the stable.

That support helped Marshall become Sydney's leading jockey for the 1987-88 season, when he won 86 races.

Marshall’s final Australian stakes winners came in September 2000 aboard the Paul Cave-trained Pasta Express in the Group 2 Chelmsford Stakes and Group 2 Hill Stakes. He retired three months later.

Hall of Fame jockey Ron Quinton, who rode against Marshall when he was at the peak of his powers, paid tribute to his rival.

"He was a very professional jockey, very dedicated, who obviously rode a lot for Bart and was very successful," Quinton said. "He was a first-class rider, a fair competitor and was always out there doing his best.

"It's very sad news to hear this morning. It’s never a good time, but it's very tough for the family right on the eve of Christmas."

Australian Jockeys' Association chief executive Des O'Keeffe paid tribute to Marshall and his standing within the industry.

“We are really shocked and saddened to hear the news of John’s passing," O'Keeffe said. “He was incredibly well respected and highly regarded by all his peers and our thoughts are with the family at this time."

The Marshall name lives on in racing with John's son Taylor riding professionally in Brisbane.

Australian Turf Club chief executive Jamie Barkley said Marshall was highly regarded among his peers during his career and in retirement.

“John Marshall was one of Australia’s best jockeys over many years, and we join the racing community in paying great tribute to his wonderful career,” Barkley said.

“The ATC sends its condolences to John’s family, as well as his colleagues past and present."

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