Willie Pike to be inducted into Western Australia Racing Hall Of Fame

On a day when he won the Belmont Sprint on Western Empire, star jockey Willie Pike received the news that he will be inducted into the Western Australia Racing Hall Of Fame on August 22.

Darren McAullay surprised Pike with the special announcement in the jockey’s room and the scene was caught on Racing WA TV.

“That sounds like I’m getting retired so I’m a little concerned,” was Pike’s initial response, said with a smile and twinkle in the eye.

“How does that make you feel,” pressed McAullay.

“Old,” answered Pike.

“I’m a little bit taken aback, actually. That’s a prestigious list … and the history of racing and history of WA racing … it’s really great to be a part of it, but I’m a bit stuck for words at the moment.

“I’ll be very proud to be there on the night. It is an absolute honour to even be considered to join those names.”

It was almost fitting on the day then that, in the Belmont Sprint, the soon to be inducted Pike chased home and ultimately went past Role Them In ridden by Hall Of Famer Paul Harvey, in a finish which showcased the expertise of these two top riders. Harvey has only recently returned to race riding.

“We all say … anyone who grew up in this area … that Paul Harvey was the king. He was the guy we all aspired to beat, so he set the bar we needed to beat,” said Pike.

“Happily enough for me, I was able to somewhat go and do my version of setting the bar as well, but you don’t get to do that without a guy like him setting it first.

“My hunger (for success) is still there. I hate second … Everybody knows that.

‘Hopefully, I’ve got a few more years left in me.’