Pike steers Elite Belle to Railway win
William Pike today broke his Railway hoodoo with an outstanding riding display to push home Elite Belle in the $1 million Group 1 Ascot handicap.
Elite Belle ($5) was at the back end of the field with Balmont Girl (($13 into $11) and Moriarty ($4.80 to $5.50), but Pike, known as the Wizard, threaded his way through runners to pounce on the leader Fuchsia Bandana (($14 into $12) inside the final 100m and run away to a ¾ length win.
Balmont Girl and Moriarty stormed down the outside to fight out the minor placings with the judge having to call for a print to split the pair.
A nose was all that separated then in the end. With Fuchsia Bandana running the race of her life to cling to fourth spot another nose.
Cult hero, The Cleaner, an easing $5.50 favourite, had led the field as anticipated, setting a cracking pace from the 1600m start, but he capitulated at the top of the straight to finish ninth.
Pike won the 2010 Perth Cup for owner-breeders Bob and Sandra Peters on Lords Ransom.
But Pike until today had failed to enjoy the same success in WA’s premier race.
“We were in no-man’s land for a while but we were able to get out of trouble,” Pike said. “The great thing about her is she never gives up.
“She is a courageous little horse.
“Given the right run she is capable of anything.
“This is just such a great thrill.
“To do it for the Peters family and for Grant and Alana (Williams) gives me a great feeling.
“We’ve missed out on this race a few times and to finally win it gives me a good warm feeling.”
Pike rode a feature double for Peters and Williams with Antique Belle returning from a let-up in blazing fashion in the Jungle Mist Classic (1200m).
All place-getters will meet at weight-for-age next Saturday week in the $500,000 Tabtouch Kingston Town Classic (1800m).
