Just days after learning he will miss the ride on High Opinion in the Wagga Gold Cup due to suspension, Heywood has secured a stint with one of the country’s leading stables.

The 20-year-old will ride 10 of Snowden’s horses at the trials before beginning a three-month trial with the stable the following week.

The Snowden stable won the Golden Slipper in March and is currently fourth on the Sydney trainer’s premiership.

Paul Snowden said he and his father are thrilled to be able to provide an opportunity to Heywood.

“Nick’s a willing young lad with a good work ethic and that can take you a long way in this game,” Snowden said.

“Obviously he’s from a good family as well.

“Dad’s very much of the old school mode, a lot of kids like him have ability, but if they have the right attitude and then we like to give them the chance and opportunity.”

The move to the Snowden team has been in the pipeline for the past three weeks but was only signed off on Tuesday.

The Snowden team were one of a number of leading stables from Sydney and Melbourne that tried to secure the services of Heywood.

With a three-kilo metropolitan claim, Heywood has a lot to offer city stables during the winter months.

Heywood will stay in a unit right next to the Snowden office and stable.

He cannot wait to get started.

“It will be a big thrill, something different,” Heywood said.

“He’s highly regarded as one of the best trainers in Australia, if not the world so hopefully I can pick up some of the stuff he teaches me.

“It’s one of the best places I could go.”

Heywood said he will go to Sydney with one main goal.

“Just to try to ride as many winners as possible and to ride my first city winner obviously,” he said.

Heywood hopes to return to Wagga in time to watch High Opinion in the Gold Cup on  Friday.