Craig Williams made a triumphant return to city racing at Sandown on Wednesday, piloting Bossy Benita to victory in the MRC Membership Feel The Thrill Handicap (1200m).

It was Williams’ first metropolitan appearance since being suspended for his ride in the Stradbroke Handicap at Eagle Farm in June. During his two-week absence, he stayed active, partnering with Bossy Benita in a jump-out at Sandown on June 25 to stay in sync with the mare.

Bossy Benita, trained by Michael Mehegan, proved her affinity for Sandown yet again. Her first-up success on the Lakeside track follows two straight wins on the Hillside course last preparation.

“Credit must go to her trainer Michael Mehegan,” Williams said.

“He’s a really good horseman and is educating her and bringing her along nicely and he was confident enough to put some headgear on her.

“I jumped her out the other day and gave him some feedback, and he was able to work with that.

“He’s found the right product and the right tools to win first-up and there is more in store.”

The win also helped Williams narrow the gap to Blake Shinn in the Victorian Jockeys’ Metropolitan Premiership. With only six meetings remaining, Williams now trails by just seven wins.

Shinn, who was returning from a foot injury, was also back riding at Sandown, setting the stage for a thrilling run to the end of the season.

“I love these battles in these championships,” Williams said.

“This battle with Blake has inspired me to ride more and do better and if he wasn’t here now it may be a lot easier.

“But this is what racing is about, competition. I love the competition, and he gives me great motivation.”

He also shared a humorous moment from the jockeys’ room.

“Raelene is here today, Blake’s nanna, and she said ‘don’t you go beating Blake’,” Williams said.

“But I said if it wasn’t for me being here, Blake wouldn’t be here either.”

With both stars back in the saddle, it’s an ideal time to follow the betting scene as the jockeys’ title fight heats up.