Despite not racing Winx still stole the show at Rosehill
On a day she wasn’t even racing, Winx has stolen the show at Rosehill in a solo track gallop a week out from her next assignment in the George Ryder Stakes.
With Hugh Bowman riding at Flemington on Saturday, the responsibility was handed to Kerrin McEvoy to guide the world’s best horse through her work-out over 1000 metres.
And it was a job he took seriously as she worked into a strong gallop, covering her final 600 metres in 34.61s.
“She rides bigger and stronger than she looks,” McEvoy said.
“I was happy with the gallop. She did it well within herself.
“It’s not often you get to ride the best horse in the world.
“She’s got that aura about her.”
That aura attracted spontaneous applause from the people in the grandstand, not the usual reaction to a track gallop.
Trainer Chris Waller’s racing manager Charlie Duckworth said the exercise was a tried and true part of Winx’s preparation.
“Bringing her out on race day is something that has become the norm for her,” he said.
“It just takes the edge off her for next week and the George Ryder.”
Bowman made sure McEvoy didn’t get too comfortable in the saddle, with one of the two infield screens showing him winning the Listed Indognito Stakes at Flemington at the same time as Winx worked out.
Winx is the $1.15 favourite with Sportsbet.com.au to win the George Ryder Stakes.
