Weight is right for Stanley at Eagle Farm

Much-travelled jockey Justin Stanley’s dedication to getting his weight under control has him back in the city spotlight at Eagle Farm.

Stanley made a rare recent city visit to Brisbane, winning on Sporting Page at Doomben two weeks ago.

He will again partner Sporting Page for Mackay trainer Olivia Cairns with the gelding to run in Saturday’s Open Handicap (1200m).

Stanley has always had plenty of ability dating back to when he was the regular partner of top 1990s stayer Ken’s Joy before the horse was sent south to Bart Cummings.

He has had plenty of success in Brisbane in recent years and his big recent wins include the Group Three Gunsynd Plate (Worthy Cause), the Listed Breakfast Creek Hotel Stakes (Enquare) and the Gold Coast Guineas (Beethog).

In recent months however, he has been content to ply his trade in northern and central Queensland.

Banner error, could not find casino id "william-hill-sport"

“I have been riding at Cairns, Townsville, Rockhampton and Mackay. I would rather go there for five good rides than get one or two bad ones in Brisbane or the Gold Coast,” Stanley said.

“But obviously if I get some good rides in Brisbane I will take them. Sporting Page was a good winner last start and he will be hard to beat again.”

Stanley admits his weight got away from him a few years ago but he has got it under control.

“I can ride 55kg easily and for good rides such as Sporting Page I can get down to 54 without any trouble,” he said.

“Hopefully, I can get a few more chances in town but if not I am happy at the provincial tracks.”

Sporting Page has won 14 races and has been in great form since joining Cairns in July, winning three of his past five starts.