Bowman cleared to ride Winx

CHAMPION jockey Hugh Bowman has been the all-clear to ride Winx in the George Ryder Stakes and Performer in the Golden Slipper at Rosehill Gardens on Saturday.

Bowman gained a medical clearance to resume riding yesterday after suffering concussion when he fell from Performer in the Todman Stakes 10 days ago.

He had to do a cognitive test before Racing NSW stewards and medical staff, and was given the green light to return to the saddle in time for Sydney’s signature race day, the Golden Slipper meeting.

Bowman said he would ride trackwork this morning and planned to take rides at Newcastle races on Thursday as preparation for Slipper Day.

The world’s top-rated jockey will be busy at Rosehill on Saturday, riding Winx as she aims for her 24th consecutive win in the Group 1 $1 million George Ryder Stakes and Performer in the $3.5 million Longines Golden Slipper.

“I won’t ride Wednesday at the Gosford races but I will take rides Thursday,’’ Bowman said.

“I’m still a bit sore in the shoulder from the fall and I wouldn’t say I’m feeling on top of the world but compared to last week, I am feeling a lot better. I can function now but last week I was feeling as flat as a tack.’’

Bowman stood down from riding last week after receiving advice from a neurosurgeon.