Free rein for super Winx
WINX’S extraordinary ability to adapt to any situation during a race makes her virtually the complete racehorse.
This is why trainer Chris Waller won’t be burdening jockey Hugh Bowman with race tactics going into the Group 1 George Main Stakes (1600m) at Randwick today.
“The beauty of Winx is to just let her be in her comfort zone and you know she will respond,’’ Waller said.
“We know she has the ability to reel off very quick sectionals in the last part of her race but if it is a strong gallop and they put the pressure on a long way out, she is good in those scenarios as well.
“Regardless of the situation, she is equally as effective and it is what makes Winx who she is – she is not unstoppable but a very good racehorse.’’
Red Excitement and jockey Josh Parr nearly produced a monumental upset in the Chelmsford Stakes two weeks ago when they raced away to a huge lead mid-race before Winx unleashed a phenomenal sprint to reel in the leader.
Waller said Bowman would be prepared for the unexpected again today.
“I don’t think there is anyone that purposely tears a race apart to make things hard but you’ve got to respect other jockeys, trainers and owners giving instructions to ride their horses to the best of their abilities,’’ Waller said.
“Everybody is trying to win and I respect that. It was just a little more noticeable last start.’’
Most speed maps have Red Excitement leading again and trying to break up the George Main Stakes field but Bowman is keeping an open mind about tactics until he studies how the track plays today.
“I don’t think they are reinventing the wheel to try to beat her,’’ Bowman said.
“Red Excitement the other day, they rode the horse to his strengths. Everyone is out there to win but I don’t think rival connections are trying to bring about her demise. It was a credit to Josh Parr and the horse to run the race they did.’’
Winx ($1.09) is chasing her 20th consecutive win today.