Larry Cassidy has outsmarted his rivals in the Lismore Cup with a daring ride on the Joanne Hardy-trained Collaboration to win by 10 lengths.

The multiple Group One-winning jockey recently returned from a long injury lay-off and said he rode the gelding as per instructions.

"Joanne told me not to ride him to pretty.She said to ride him like a European stayer," Cassidy told Sky Thoroughbred Central.

"But I have to admit I was surprised when I looked at the screen and saw how far in front we were.

"It was a great training performance and it's a great thrill to come down and win the Cup."

Hardy, who is based at Coffs Harbour, said Cassidy's ride was the difference between winning and not winning.

"Larry's ride won the race for us," she said.

Collaboration began his career in England and had four starts for premier Sydney trainer Chris Waller before joining Hardy whose father Trevor won the Lismore Cup with Falcon's Domain in 1995.