Rivals hold no fears
Bowman says only bad luck can stop Winx scoring another victory
HUGH Bowman knows he is the hunted when he goes out to ride Winx at Royal Randwick today – but it isn’t the opposition he’s fears most.
“The biggest thing for me is avoiding bad luck,’’ Bowman said when asked about his riding tactics for Winx in the Group 1 $600,000 Chipping Norton Stakes (1600m).
It seems Bowman only needs to give Winx clear galloping room to ensure the mighty mare extends her famous winning streak to 15 in a row. Winx is at $1.10 with UBET to claim her 10th Group 1 and increase her career earnings to nearly $10 million.
Bowman, always cool under pressure, said today’s race should “set up quite well for Winx’’.
“Barrier four is a beautiful draw,’’ Bowman said.
“I can pop out and keep myself away from the rail. The likely leader has drawn inside of me and a couple from out wide might press on but she has shown in the past that she is very versatile and that’s what makes her so good.
“If there is no pace I can be up leading or outside the leader. It is just a case of making her comfortable. But ultimately, I can’t judge it until I’m in the race. I’m trying not to overcomplicate it.
“I can go through different scenarios in my mind but I can only ride the race as it unfolds.’’
Trainer Chris Waller is happy to hand the responsibility over to Bowman when he legs the jockey into the saddle for Winx’s race today.
“Hugh is the utmost professional and I could not have a better man on the horse,’’ Waller said. “He is a very focussed jockey and just a great man to have aboard.’’
Waller said Winx’s brilliant return in the Apollo Stakes last week showed the mare was back in top form.
The mighty mare has been unbeatable for nearly two years and her trainer hopes her winning run doesn’t end soon.
“I’m not sure how long it will last,’’ Waller said.
“Like all sporting people or horses, they have a life span.
“We are wary of that and we are doing our best to manage that and keep her racing as long as possible.
“Physically I couldn’t be happier with her.
“She has maintained her weight and has probably muscled up and strengthened up a little bit more. “She is going as well as ever.’’
Bowman agrees that Winx has improved since her Apollo Stakes win.
“She is stronger in her work and more relaxed in her demeanour,’’ the jockey said.