Clark axed for Bowman on Guineas favourite Dalasan

MICHELLE Payne is devastated for Raquel Clark after the Adelaide jockey controversially lost the ride on Caulfield Guineas favourite Dalasan, but doesn’t believe the demotion is an example of sexism.

Clark, who has been aboard in all four of Dalasan’s career wins, was replaced by Hugh Bowman after trainer Leon Macdonald decided the colt needed a strong left-handed whip rider.

The decision came after the wayward Dalasan, $3 favourite for the $2 million Group 1, was beaten by Alligator Blood in Sunday’s Guineas Prelude.

Clark said she understood the decision, while Macdonald said the move was no reflection on Dalasan’s regular rider.

Payne, who came under heavy pressure to keep the ride on Prince Of Penzance in the 2015 Melbourne Cup after finishing second in the Moonee Valley Cup, said she understood the decision but felt for Clark.

“I can see why it happens in certain circumstances, but in this case it’s really devastating for Raquel,” she said.

“Obviously guys get taken off all the time but I feel like Raquel has done a great job with that horse.

“The other day he was very green and took a bit to get going.

“She suggested to Leon (to use) blinkers and maybe blinkers or maybe the fact he’s even just had that experience, he’ll be better for next time.

“Going around the corner, he laid in behind them, still very green.

“Look, a guy might have picked him up and got him going but that horse had a beautiful progressive run into the next start. I think he’ll bounce through that run and be really hard to beat and it’s so sad for Raquel because I think he’ll come out and win. “I think it’s devastating.” Payne said Macdonald’s record with women jockeys provided crucial context.

Clark tweeted: “Thank you for everyone's support regarding losing the ride on Dalasan. It's just one of those things that happens in racing …”