June 15, 2023 by Julio Santarelli
William Pike’s bid for a record-breaking fifth Belmont Guineas (1600m) will rest with Upper Limits on Saturday and he’s relishing the opportunity to partner the Jeremy Easthope gelding.
Pike said Upper Limit’s previous run for third in the Raconteur Stakes (1400m) when he stormed home from the back of the field and a low barrier draw influenced his decision.
“He hit the line really well last start running into third and it looks like the next step up should suit,” Pike told The Races WA.
“It was a tough choice, because there were a few other horses I wanted to give a go to, but I think the barrier helped sway me.
“He’s a class horse and it’s just a matter of getting it right on the day and getting the job done.
“Im happy to have the ride and I’m happy he has drawn barrier one, it always helps.
“It will help me earlier and instead of being the last pair I can be in front of the last pair and possible midfield if he’s feeling good enough.”
A $10,000 Adelaide Magic Millions yearling, Upper Limits has claimed one win and seven placings in nine starts for $82,405 in stake earnings.
The son of Exosphere won his maiden at Northam last October and a month later ran third to Bustler and All The King’s Men in the Fairetha Stakes (1400m).
Next up he finished 13th of 14 to boom filly Amelia’s Jewel in the WA Guineas (1600m), the only occasion he has missed a position outside the first three.
“He hasn’t won many, but he’s been in really tough races and done well,” Pike said.
“He’s definitely got the class.”
Pike needs one more victory to push clear of Paul Harvey to become the leading rider of the Belmont Guineas.
His first success came aboard The Underworld (2011) before he followed up with Tick Tick Bloom (2014), State Prosecutor (2018) and Mystery Miss (2019).
Upper Limits got out to as much as $4.80 after he opened at $4.40, but has now firmed into $3.90.
Rusty Dreams, runner-up to Vast Art in the Raconteur Stakes, holds $3.30 favouritism, tightening from $3.60. Vast Art is $3.70.
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