Winx jockey Hugh Bowman says champion mare is mentally better than ever
HUGH Bowman has sounded a warning to Turnbull Stakes rivals, describing Winx as “mentally better” and more relaxed after the superstar breezed through her final piece of work at Flemington.
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HUGH Bowman has sounded an ominous warning to Turnbull Stakes rivals, describing Winx as “mentally better” and more relaxed after the superstar breezed through her final piece of work at Flemington.
“She was uncharacteristically relaxed this morning, which is great for me – a bit easier to control,” Bowman said.
“Her action is as good as ever. She’s very content within herself and really looking forward to Saturday.”
Winx trainer Chris Waller taking nothing for granted ahead of Turnbull Stakes
Due to face five fellow Group 1 winners in the $500,000 Turnbull, Winx is TAB $1.15 favourite.
While Bowman respects opposition headlined by Grunt, Mighty Boss, Kings Will Dream and Youngstar, he said: “I haven’t had an in-depth view of it but obviously I’ve glanced over it.
“I would like to think she would have their measure, obviously, but we’ll have more of a look at it (later).
“I’m really pleased with barrier eight. One thing I don’t want these days is an inside draw – one, two or three – but she’s very tractable wherever she draws but barrier eight does set up well for us.”
Bowman said Winx’s fast gallop on Monday was brilliant.
“I was very excited, she worked with Invincibella, her little pal down here,” he said.
“Invincibella started four or five lengths in front of me and I just held up to the last 250m and when I let Winx go through her gears and she chased her down like she does when she’s in a race.
“If gives me a better idea of how she’s going if I’ve got a yardstick to judge it by. We were very excited by how she went.”
Bowman said Winx had matured mentally since last season, a stunning observation given the mare’s phenomenal record.
“She certainly feels a bit stronger to me and that’s been the case all preparation,” he said.
“I’d be very reluctant to say she’s any better, because how could she be any better?
“But she’s certainly stronger. She’s better mentally, there’s no doubt about that.
“She’s been relaxed all preparation. Her manners in the barriers have been very good and that, to me, is a great sign she’s in a good place mentally.
“It’s all ticking over nicely, the whole process.”