Look Hugh’s set to get back in saddle
CHAMPION jockey Hugh Bowman could be back riding as early as next weekend despite suffering concussion in a dramatic fall at Randwick.
Bowman spent the night in hospital under observation after he was sensationally dumped form Golden Slipper contender Performer in the Todman Stakes on Saturday.
The world’s top-rated jockey, the regular rider of the champion Winx, was released from hospital and was resting at home yesterday.
He is likely to ride on the opening day of the Slipper carnival at Rosehill next Saturday, although he needs a medical clearance from Racing NSW officials before being allowed back in the saddle.
Bowman’s manager Bryan Haskins indicated the jockey would only have a light book of rides.
Performer’s trainer Chris Waller said Bowman’s fall was a reality check about the dangers a jockey faced every time he or she is legged into the saddle for a race ride, barrier trial or trackwork.
“It puts everything into perspective – what jockeys do as a job and the pressure we sometimes put them under,” he said.
Stewards have ordered that Performer must trial before he can race again.
“It leaves us in an awkward position but not an impossible position,” Waller said.
“We will trial him either on the Tuesday before (the Slipper) at Rosehill or the Monday at Hawkesbury.”