William Pike’s decision to partner Exceltrain in Saturday’s Raconteur Stakes (1400m) has given co-trainer, Ben Pearce a major confidence boost.
William Pike retains the ride after guiding Exceltrain to a dominant two-length victory over Federation Rocks in a 1400m race at Belmont last-start.
Pike’s aiming for his third Raconteur Stakes after wins aboard Western Blaze (2013) and Graceful Girl (2021) for trainers Grant and Alana Williams.
Ben Pearce, who shares training duties with his brother, Dan, said he’s delighted to snap up Pike’s services after turning his back on other rides.
“I think he had the choice of a couple of others but chose to stay with Exceltrain,” Pearce told The Races WA.
“He must have obviously been impressed with that last win and his work on Tuesday when he galloped him.
“He was really impressed with the work, it’s a good sign and gives us a bit of confidence.”
Pearce is confident Exceltrain can repay Pike’s faith.
He says the Spirit Of Boom gelding had come through his previous win with flying colours.
“He’s come through that last win really good,” Pearce said.
“We nominated him for Wednesday, but after a gallop last Friday we said no we’ll go straight to the Raconteur.
“His work has been impressive and he seems to have come on a lot.
“I think he’ll go well and then it’s on to the Belmont Guineas (1600m).
“He seems to have all the right attributes, he’s sound and looks like a nice horse.”
In a field of 11 Raconteur Stakes runners, Exceltrain starts from the widest gate, but Pearce is unfazed.
“You obviously like to draw better, but he drew wide last start and got across into a nice position,” Pearce said.
“He’ll probably roll forward, but we’ll leave that to Willie to make that decision.”
Exceltrain has tightened into $10 after he opened $14 with betr.
Rusty Dreams ($4.20) and Vast Art ($4.40) are fighting for favouritism.
If Exceltrain can live up to expectations Pearce can join his brother on the Raconteur Stakes honour roll.
Dan Pearce prepared Testamezzo to win the Listed race as a solo trainer in 2014.
Meanwhile Pearce says Fear The Wind is in the zone and will be hard to be as he goes for four straight in the Mr’s Mac Handicap (2200m).
