** FEE APPLIES PER USAGE ** Apulia wins the 2026 Perth Cup for jockey William Pike
UPDATE: In a thrilling display at the Perth Cup today, Apulia and jockey William Pike scored a decisive victory in the $1 million feature race, igniting hopes for a possible run in the upcoming Melbourne Cup. The race unfolded at Ascot as Apulia, the $1.80 favorite, showcased his exceptional talent, overcoming initial concerns about his barrier manners.
Pike executed a flawless ride, guiding Apulia from a midfield position before making a bold move at the 600m mark. The five-year-old stayer surged past the long-time leader, Filthy Habits, finishing strong to clinch the win. With this victory, Apulia’s career earnings now stand at an impressive $1.9 million, prompting connections to seriously consider a Melbourne Cup campaign.
JD Hayes, part of the training team, expressed his excitement: “What a thrill. Absolutely went to script. Perfect ride by Pikey – he’s in red-hot form.” He highlighted the significance of Apulia’s performance, reflecting on the horse’s challenging journey back from injury. “It was a big sense of relief when we were in the first half of the field,” Hayes added. “He’s been through a lot, and it’s a terrific story for the Garretts, who bred him.”
The Garrett family, having purchased Apulia’s mother for $180,000, retained a 50% stake in the horse, with the other half sold to David Hayes’ Lindsay Park Bloodstock. This Melbourne Cup possibility marks a full-circle moment for Apulia, who missed last year’s event due to a serious injury.
Pike echoed the sentiment, noting the horse’s stamina and potential for future challenges: “He’s actually a perfect sort of stayer. It’s really hard to find a horse that can be like that.” He also emphasized the importance of Apulia’s clean start today, which played a crucial role in the victory.
As the day unfolded, Pike achieved a remarkable milestone, equaling Frank Treen’s record with his fifth Perth Cup win. Reflecting on his recent performances, he remarked, “Racing is a roller coaster. I’m just in a good position. I get offered really nice rides, and I’ve just got to execute under pressure, and I did that today.”
With the Perth Cup triumph fresh in their minds, all eyes are now on a potential Melbourne Cup campaign for Apulia. Fans and followers eagerly await what this talented horse will achieve next in the racing world.
