Western Empire gave his Quokka credentials a major boost on Monday morning with an impressive trial win at Belmont that has connections excited ahead of the $5 million sprint feature.
With the Quokka (1200m) just under two weeks away, the seven-year-old tuned up with a strong showing in a competitive 1000-metre heat, leading from start to finish under the guidance of star jockey William Pike.
Pike sent Western Empire straight to the front and controlled the tempo before asking for an effort late. The gelding responded well under light pressure and hit the line strongly, finishing ahead of quality performers Twain’s Angel and Ripcord, who made ground from the rear.
This trial was Western Empire’s final serious workout before lining up in what promises to be a blockbuster edition of the Quokka, with trainers Grant and Alana Williams aiming to peak him for the big day.
“He felt really good and we were a bit more positive in the trial,” Pike said to Racing WA.
“We just wanted to make sure he got a good hit out; they ran the trial a bit steady last time.
“We bounced out and made sure he got everything out of it, and I think he did.
“He loafed around a bit in front, and I got a bit more serious when they ran up to him.
“It was just about perfect the way the trial went.
“They came up and pressured him a little bit, so he got more out of it.
“I was very happy with him and it tunes him up nice.
“His attitude was really good which is a key factor for that horse.
“Sometimes he can get upset but seems in a great place at the moment.”
Western Empire is now regarded as the top local chance to challenge eastern states visitor Overpass in the Quokka. Overpass remains unbeaten in WA and is the $2.50 favourite after running a brave second to Briasa in the T.J. Smith Stakes (1200m) at Randwick.
Western Empire follows in betting at $5, while Roma Cup (1100m) runner-up Jokers Grin is close behind at $5.50. Jokers Grin dead-heated in the Roma Cup with The Boss Lady but was placed second after losing a protest.
Western Empire hasn’t been seen since capturing the The Gold Rush (1400m) at Ascot in December. Although Pike missed that ride due to injury, the pair share a successful past, most notably combining to win the Group 1 Railway Stakes (1600m) in 2021 — still regarded as Western Empire’s career highlight.
