Hugh Bowman to appeal against suspension in bid to partner Winx in return

Winx's part-owner Debbie Kepitis is waiting on the result of Hugh Bowman's appeals against two careless riding bans which would stop him riding the champion mare in her return in the Apollo Stakes.

The jockey has lodged an appeal against a careless riding suspension incurred at Friday's Warwick Farm meeting and, if he can get that and another picked up the following day in New Zealand reduced, he has a chance of riding Winx at Randwick on February 17.

As it stands, Bowman's Sydney suspension starts from Monday and ends on February 10 with New Zealand stewards suspending him from the next day until February 22.

Kepitis, who is in New Zealand for the Karaka yearling sale, says it will be a shame if the partnership is split up.

"They are part and parcel of each other," Kepitis told broadcaster racing.com. "If he doesn't win his appeal then she is not a difficult horse to ride and I'm sure Hugh will help the jockey who is chosen."

Kepitis said she and fellow owners Peter Tighe and Richard Treweeke would have an input into a new jockey but ultimately the decision rested with trainer Chris Waller.

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