WESTERN EMPIRE STRIKES IN GOLD RUSH

Trainer Williams vindicated as supersub Egan produces a heady ride in G3 at first Perth raid

- Michael Lee

As Grant Williams put the saddle on Western Empire ahead of the A$1.5 million (S$1.29 million) Group 3 The Gold Rush (1,400m) on Dec 14, doubts crept in about the wisdom of hiring a jockey who was alien to the Ascot racecourse.

On one hand, the leading Perth trainer was relieved he had been able to find at such short notice a replacement rider for his multiple-Group winner after stable jockey William Pike got hurt in an e-scooter accident on Dec 9.

With The Gold Rush boasting a full-capacity field of 16, all the top local hoops were taken. He had to look further afield.

Billy Egan may not be the first name from the East to spring to mind when looking for a top pinch hitter, but Williams heeded some strong recommendations around the 34-year-old.

Besides, Western Empire, luckless in the Group 1 Winterbottom Stakes (1,200m), was a straightforward horse with no steering issues.