Winx responsibility took a toll: Bowman

8 months ago

Hugh Bowman admits the responsibility of riding the best horse in the world eventually took a toll, both physically and mentally.

Bowman, who won 32 times on Winx from 33 starts, was aboard the great mare in all of her 25 Group 1 successes. The 38-year-old also piloted Winx to an unprecented four Cox Plates triumphs.

Winx bowed out of racing after winning the G1 Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Randwick in April, and soon after, Bowman announced he was taking a two-month break from riding.

"I underestimated the impact Winx had on everybody," Bowman explained on Sky Sports Radio.

"All the emotion everyone had, I blocked that out so I could do my role to the best of my ability.

"I was just doing what I had to do. I was blocking everything out; at the end of the day it took its toll. My body was in pain, literally, it was like I’d been playing football."

Bowman admitted he was exhausted following an arduous autumn, which, in addition to riding Winx, included trips to Hong Kong and riding interstate.

"My body was telling me, that's the bottom line," Bowman said.

"I was exhausted to be perfectly honest. I had no energy, usually when I feel a bit flat I push it a bit harder and keep going.

"It wasn't a decision I would have made unless I needed to. It was about resting the body and mind and getting ready for the new (racing) year."

Bowman explained that he spent his time off doing "normal things" and said he is rejuvenated and looking forward to getting back in the saddle.

"I enjoyed friends' company, taking the kids to school. Normal things. Going to dinner, Friday night beers," he said.

"I certainly feel good in my mind. It's been great to step away from it for a while. I feel good now. I'm unfit, and a bit heavy, but that's part of getting back."

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