Ford keen to make the most of late Winx Stakes chance

The Bostonian is a strong contender to take out the Winx Stakes ($5.50 with TAB), with the six-year-old jumping from barrier one.

The son of Jimmy Choux boasts an impressive first-up record, including a victory in the Group One Canterbury Stakes when he was first-up last campaign.

Ford picks up the ride after Nash Rawiller was suspended for whip use and careless riding on August 8.

"I think Nash (Rawiller) was meant to ride him and he obviously got suspended. They were searching around looking for someone to ride him and they came up with me and contacted me," Ford said.

"It was a bit out of the blue, but one that I'm grateful for the opportunity. He's a very good ride and a classy horse and I'm sure that he'll race very well on the weekend."

The Bostonian only made his way to Sydney this week, spending his time preparing for his first-up task at home in New Zealand.

Ford says the Tony Pike-trained galloper is a strong chance if the luck falls their way.

"He's a solid chance in an open race, he's drawn well, so a little bit of luck at the right time and I'm sure he'll make his presence felt," he said.

"He's a class horse, he's proved himself at the top level over the past 12 to 18 months now, he's a multiple Group One winner.

"I'll ride it as I see it. His natural form is to be on speed, so he'll be there abouts on top of the speed from a good alley, and I'm sure he'll do the rest."