Sydney jockey Winona Costin reflects on recent Queensland rides as she considers a possible relocation to chase opportunity in the Sunshine State.
Queensland Racing Beckons for Winona Costin
The warmer climate and growing success of southeast Queensland racing may soon attract another talented name—Winona Costin. Though currently based in Sydney, the 30-year-old jockey admits she’s open to moving north if the right opportunities arise.
While Costin hasn’t officially made plans to relocate, she’s seriously weighing the benefits. Inspired by fellow rider Cejay Graham’s Brisbane success since leaving Port Macquarie in 2023, Costin sees potential in following a similar path. “You never know,” she said. “If I get good enough traction then there’s always a chance. I’m not a tree so I can move.”
Her current fly-in, fly-out strategy to southeast Queensland shows promise. With six mounts at Doomben this Saturday—all for different trainers—she’s proving adaptable and in demand.
Busy Schedule, Strong Connections, and Determined Spirit
One of her best chances comes aboard Philipsburg, trained by James Ponsonby, in a Benchmark 78 over 2000m. Costin will then head to Toowoomba for two Saturday night rides before stopping at Grafton on her way back for two Sunday races.
Costin’s familiarity with Philipsburg gives her confidence. She has ridden the horse in multiple races, including two strong April wins at Doomben and Eagle Farm. “I’ve ridden him since he was young and he’s definitely one of my favourite horses,” she said. “He’s got a lot of character – he’s a funny old bugger – and he’s in good order.”
Although Philipsburg finished eighth in the Ipswich Cup last month, Costin remains optimistic. “He ran really well… the track was just playing a bit too on-pace for him. I was happy with how he came home.”
Her weekend riding plans display a clear commitment to the Queensland circuit, signaling potential for a permanent move.
From Setbacks to Strength—Costin’s Comeback Journey
Costin’s career is marked by resilience. In 2017, a string of race and trial falls sidelined her for nearly a year due to serious concussion symptoms. The effects were severe—loss of speech, memory lapses, constant fatigue—but her drive to return remained unshaken.
“Having a year off was definitely not on the cards,” she shared. “I wasn’t going to take ‘no’ for an answer.” After a Sydney neurologist refused to clear her, she went to Melbourne and found someone who did. “It was hard. I can’t even remember most of the year… but that’s all in the past now.”
Today, Costin is back to full strength and eager to grow her career further. Whether in Sydney or Brisbane, her determination continues to shine. With a packed riding schedule, loyal connections, and strong performances behind her, the future for Winona Costin is full of promise.
