UPDATE: In a thrilling finish, **Apulia** has claimed victory in the **$300,000 Ted Van Heemst** at **Ascot** today, positioning himself as the frontrunner for the upcoming **Perth Cup**. Ridden by **William Pike**, the **$2.75** favorite surged from last to first, showcasing remarkable speed and determination.
The race began with a chaotic start as Apulia stumbled from the gates. Pike quickly guided him to the back of the pack, while **Hoba West** took an unexpected lead. As the competitors approached the **400-meter** mark, Hoba West opened up a two-length advantage, challenging Apulia and the rest of the field.
Pike finally maneuvered Apulia to the outside, unleashing a powerful burst of speed in the final stretch. With just **30 meters** to go, Apulia closed the gap on Hoba West and crossed the finish line **three-quarters of a length** ahead, solidifying his status as a serious contender for the **Perth Cup** on **January 1, 2024**.
A stable representative, **Ammad Saleem**, expressed confidence in Apulia’s performance, stating, “He’s thriving since he rocked up here,” and noted the horse’s improved condition following a disappointing **seventh place** finish in the **Northerly Stakes** just two weeks prior. Saleem emphasized the importance of Pike’s experience, saying, “When you’ve got Pikey on board, you come to expect that from him.”
With this win, Apulia has become the **$2.90** favorite for the **Perth Cup**, a race that will see him carrying **58.5 kg**. Saleem remains optimistic about Apulia’s chances, saying, “I don’t think the weight is going to worry him and hopefully he’ll be in the finish of the Perth Cup.”
Pike, celebrating his **seventh** Van Heemst title, revealed his surprise at Apulia’s slow start and admitted, “I thought I was going to get Saturday Slaughter again and be unlucky.” Despite his initial concerns, Pike’s strategic patience paid off, leading to a stunning victory.
As the racing community buzzes with excitement over Apulia’s performance, all eyes will be on the **Perth Cup**, where fans and experts alike anticipate whether this impressive galloper can continue his winning streak. With the stakes higher than ever, the upcoming race promises to be nothing short of exhilarating.
Stay tuned for further updates as the Perth Cup approaches, and watch for Pike’s next moves as he weighs his options for his cup mount.
