The partnership of trainer duo Grant and Alana Williams with jockey William Pike achieved another remarkable victory at Ascot, securing the $1.5 million Swan Draught Railway Stakes (1600m) with their horse, Watch Me Rock. The race, held on December 2, 2023, marked a significant milestone as it was their sixth win together in this prestigious event.
Pike, who was the favourite at $3.40, positioned Watch Me Rock perfectly in the early stages of the race, settling just outside stablemate and competitor Western Empire, who started at $6. As the horses approached the final bend, Pike urged Watch Me Rock wide, allowing the horse to surge ahead. Despite Western Empire’s attempt to make a strong run, Watch Me Rock showcased exceptional speed, finishing three-quarters of a length ahead.
Reflecting on the victory, Grant Williams expressed his initial concerns about Pike’s choice to ride Watch Me Rock over Western Empire. “I thought he was on the wrong one,” Williams admitted. “But it worked out better for the stable for him to ride Watch Me Rock.” This win is particularly meaningful for the Williams team, as their previous successes in the Railway Stakes had been achieved in partnership with prominent breeder Bob Peters.
Despite their accomplishments, Williams stated that the pressure to win remains high. “We probably put too much pressure on ourselves to win this,” he noted. “We wanted to get that Group 1 (on our own).” With this latest victory, he added, “I’m going to go out on a limb and say it’s my best one.”
The performance of Watch Me Rock raises questions about the horse’s potential future. Grant Williams remarked on the significance of beating a seasoned competitor like Western Empire, stating, “Today, for him to run away from Western Empire, I don’t know what his ceiling is.”
Alana Williams, who plays a crucial role in the training operation, faced challenges leading up to the race due to a finger injury. Grant Williams praised their staff and riders, saying, “They’re all A-graders.” He also expressed his relief that the team was able to adapt despite the setback.
Pike, who has won all five of the Williams’ previous Railway Stakes, emphasized the importance of performing well in major races. “It’s been a few years since I’ve won a Group 1,” he stated, adding, “I find it hard to say you’re the best if you’re not winning Group 1s.”
The race’s outcome was also influenced by the barrier draw, with both Watch Me Rock and Western Empire receiving advantageous positions. Pike acknowledged the impact of the draw, saying, “I landed in a prime position. I didn’t expect to be that close.”
Looking ahead, Pike now faces the challenging decision of which horse to ride in the upcoming Northerly Stakes (1800m), as he seeks another Group 1 victory. Earlier in the day, he guided King Of Light to victory in the WA Guineas (1600m), making that horse the favourite at $2.70 for the Northerly Stakes, ahead of Western Empire at $5.50 and Watch Me Rock at $7.
As he prepares for the next race, Pike remains focused and determined. “I’m hungry for a winner,” he stated, reflecting the competitive spirit that has defined his successful career in racing.
