Heywood enjoyed a big day out at Murrumbidgee Turf Club, riding a winning treble courtesy of wins on Flying Cyril ($31.00), Thunder Road ($2.80) and Cha Cha King ($5.00).

Two of those wins, and another second placing, came about through pick up rides when Nick Souquet ruled himself out with illness on the morning of the race meeting.

The illness cost Souquet the Wagga jockey’s premiership. Heywood’s three winners drew him level, before a Brendan Ward win late in the day saw him blouse them both to claim the title in a thrilling finish.

Heywood enjoyed getting home to ride a few winners.

“It’s been a while since I’ve ridden a winner at Wagga. I was getting behind (on the premiership) so I thought I better catch up,” Heywood said.

“I hope Nick’s alright. It was unfortunate that he couldn’t ride them but it was good to get them up.”

Heywood has been based in Sydney for just over 12 months with Peter and Paul Snowden, where he is second on the metropolitan apprentice’s premiership.

He said the move to the city has not always been easy, but has extended his apprenticeship for another 12 months.

“It’s hard work, it’s a hard caper,” he said.

“I’ll keep working and hopefully get on a nice horse that can take me somewhere.”