Schumacher would secure the 1958 Melbourne Cup aboard Baystone, a modest performer which hit peak form at the right time. Schumacher was 21 years of age at the time.
In 1958 it would be a year of firsts in Melbourne Cup history with No.7 saddlecloth saluting for the first time and the first use of upright barriers when starting the Cup field.
Schumacher would win other Flemington features including the 1961 VRC Australian Cup aboard Dream King and the 1968 VRC Sires Produce Stakes on the Tommy Smith trained, Flying Fable.
VRC Chairman, Neil Wilson acknowledged the achievements of Mel Schumacher, one of only 124 individual jockeys to win Australia’s most iconic horse race.
“The Victoria Racing Club sends its condolences to the family and friends of Melbourne Cup-winning jockey Mel Schumacher after his passing,” Mr Wilson said.
“Many jockeys spend their whole career trying to win the Cup and Mel managed to achieve it at 21 years of age thanks to his incredible skill in the saddle. He will forever be remembered at Flemington Racecourse,” he added.