Western Empire’s triumphant return in Northam Stakes

[Wandering Eyes]

Western Empire made a triumphant comeback, in Perth racing, with jockey William Pike guiding him to victory in the Group 3 Tabtouch Northam Stakes (1300m) on Sunday.

The six-year-old gelding, previously trained by Grant and Alana Williams, showed his talent with a third place finish in The Joey (1200m).

As the favourite at $2.20 with the top horse racing bookmakers, Western Empire didn’t disappoint, putting on a performance that earned Pike his second win of the day.

With Pike manoeuvring through the field, Western Empire showcased his speed down the stretch, leaving his competitors behind.

Despite a stumble towards the end, he maintained control, clinching his eighth career win.

While Western Empire stole the spotlight, outsider Mood Swings, at odds of $101, emerged as the top contender, finishing 2 ½ lengths behind in second place.

The consistent Red Can Man from Albany secured third place, trailing by half a length.

Northam Stakes Race Replay – Western Empire (1st)

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The redemption of Western Empire highlights the skill of Grant and Alana Williams in bringing out the best in him after performances in Melbourne.

Previously, Western Empire had a rough start, under the guidance of Danny O’Brien and John Leek Jr., never placing higher than fifth in seven races.

However, the Williams family saw promise in the horse and purchased him for $150,000 during the Inglis Digital Sale in October.

Western Empire’s journey in Perth racing has been truly remarkable.

In 2021, he emerged as a standout three-year-old, winning four races, including the prestigious Group 2 WA Derby (2400m).

His dominance continued seven months later with a victory by four lengths in the Group 1 Railway Stakes (1600 m), establishing himself as a star of WA horse racing.

Grant Williams expressed his happiness at having Western Empire in their stable and recognising his talent.

The trainer considers Western Empire to be one of the horses they’ve ever trained and is pleased with his form and mindset.

Williams values the opportunity to work with horses like Western Empire.

While theres a chance of heading to Melbourne in the spring, Western Empires immediate focus is on the Belmont Sprint (1400m) and Hyperion Stakes (1600m).

Williams and Pike are committed to maintaining the gelding’s fitness and well-being, ensuring he remains successful on the racetrack.

Pike, who has a connection with Western Empire, expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to revisit the days with the horse.

He recognises the memories they have shared and looks forward to achieving milestones in the days ahead.

As Western Empire progresses on his journey, racing enthusiasts eagerly anticipate his upcoming victories, eager to witness him reach greater heights than those he has already achieved.

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