Simpson

Ainsley Walters, Freelance Writer

FIVE-TIME CHAMPION Trevor Simpson looks set to wrest the lead in the jockeys' standings from suspended Paul Francis this weekend as he has three hot mounts on tomorrow's 11-race card - SUMMER PRINCESS in the second, GRANDPA'S DREAM in the sixth and ROYAL COMMAND in the 10th .

Simpson moved to 31 winners, one behind Francis, on Wednesday after booting home a double, ASKAWOMAN in the fourth event and CLASSY BOY PETE in the eighth.

Hunting a sixth riders' title at Caymanas Park, Simpson made his move last Saturday when he rode five winners to get within striking distance of the lead being held by Francis, who will miss tomorrow's meet on a one-day ban.

Francis, who recently had one of the most lucrative riding contracts at Caymanas Park tugged from under his feet after he was sacked as stable rider for Anthony Nunes, picked up the one-day ban after winning aboard STARRY EYES last Saturday.

The stewards said Francis' mount, which won by 10 lengths, had caused interference to second past the post JUST A CAT, but the hindrance did not warrant disqualification.

Losing his contract and the lead to Simpson, halfway through the season, could signal the end of Francis' bid as the five-time champion has cemented his spot in Philip Feanny's barn in addition to getting regular rides from Richard Azan and even Nunes himself.

Simpson holds the record of most wins ina single season at Caymanas Park, 172, after smashing George HoSang's record of 167 in 2004.