Hugh Bowman hopes his presence and the signed colours of champion mare Winx will help the family of a late jockey dealing with a “real life tragedy”.
Veteran jockey Darren Jones’ death in April has left his wife Sheridan as the sole carer for the couple’s two children, who both have disabilities.
The fatal race fall at Warialda in NSW’s far north hit home for Bowman, who has thrown his support and time behind a benefit night for the Jones family.
The connections of the best horse Bowman has ridden – Winx – have also offered for auction a set of the dual Cox Plate winner’s blue and white silks.
The colours, signed by Bowman, trainer Chris Waller and co-owners Debbie Kepitis and Peter Tighe, will be sold at the fundraiser in Tamworth on August 24.
“It’s a situation that’s very sad, and everyone continues with their life but (Sheridan) has to go on with the reality of going on without Darren,” Bowman told Sky Sports Radio.
“If my presence can create some interest, it’s the least I can do on behalf of the racing industry and the jockeys association.
“People talk about tragedies being beaten in horse racing … but this is a real life tragedy.
Bowman is also set to speak on the night, accompanied by champion Kingston Town’s jockey Malcolm Johnston.
Journalist Greg Radley will lead proceedings.
Tickets and donations can be made to the Tamworth Jockey Club, which is organising the Darren Jones Family Appeal.