Winx Far Too Good in George Ryder Stakes

Winx has undoubtedly stamped herself as the country’s best racehorse at Rosehill Gardens this afternoon; leading a Chris Waller-trained trifecta in the Group 1 George Ryder Stakes (1500m).

Winx claimed a fifth Group 1 triumph in this afternoon’s George Ryder Stakes at Rosehill Gardens. Photo: Steve Hart

Jumping from the gates only fairly, jockey Hugh Bowman was forced to sit three wide without cover over the back straight but pressed the Street Cry mare forward to settle in prime position on the heels of early leaders Turn Me Loose and First Seal at the bend.

Offered a clear racing line upon arriving at the final straight, Bowman allowed Winx ample time to balance before asking for an extra effort, who responded with a typically huge turn of foot to lead home stable mates Kermadec and Press Statement.

Waller was understandably thrilled with the performance of all three of his runners in the 2016 George Ryder Stakes but was particularly elated with champion mare Winx, who has now posted five impressive Group 1 triumphs.

“It’s pretty special, especially one a day like today,” Waller said.

“I just watched it with the clerk of the scales of all people and it was pretty special.

“Press Statement is the next superstar when he develops in the next six months and Kermadec last year’s prince and doing a fantastic job. I’m proud of all three.”

Bowman delivered another standout performance aboard Winx to win the 2016 George Ryder Stakes and believed today’s win underlined the class and worth of the classy four-year-old.

“I won my first Group 1 in Sydney in this race for Guy Walter,” Bowman said after dismounting.

“To come here on a mare like this today, I think it’s one of the best races in the country just because of the field it attracts every year.

“She showed her dominance here this afternoon and it’s just an honour to be a part of it.

“I was little a bit more apprehensive today just because of the draw and the set up of the race, but that’s what a horse that is better than the rest can do.

“I was surprised when the other horse (Kermadec) came with me up on the rail, but she left him in her wake in the final over the last 100m and it was just me and her and it was ever so sweet.

“I certainly feel as though it’s up to me to put her in the right spot. She’s going to deliver but I still have to put her in a position where she can, and so far I’ve been able to do that.”

Winx drifted to odds of $2.05 in the minutes leading up to jump and punters who backed the mare with Ladbrokes.com.au have been paid out on a lucrative quote!

2016 George Ryder Stakes Results