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The day started well for Cambridge trainer Tony Pike on Saturday when recent stable acquisition Palace Talk broke her maiden status with a win in the first race on the card at Ruakaka.
Having just her second start from the Pike barn after commencing her career with fellow Cambridge trainer Shaune Ritchie, Palace Talk showed there were more wins in store when she held out a determined challenge from race favourite Eyes Of Love to score narrowly but well in the 1200 metre event.
“She did it nicely in the end and I think she has a nice future in front of her once she puts in all together,” noted Pike.“She is a frustrating type as she wants to float around and knock off when she thinks the job is done and she tried that on Saturday. Leith (Innes) kept her going though and it was a good win as the second horse looks a smart galloper as well.”
Pike wasn’t certain where he would head with the rising four-year-old although he was adamant a gear change would be in order for her next start.“There’s not a lot around for her as a four-year-old so we will just pick and choose our battles as we get her through the grades,” he said.
“I definitely think the blinkers will go on for her next start as they will help her concentrate which is what she needs.”Pike has enjoyed another stellar season through the deeds of runners such as multiple Group One winner Sacred Star, Auckland Cup winner Rock Diva and the promising Allez Eagle and is looking forward to further success as his big guns prepare for their new campaigns.
“Scared Star has come back from Brisbane and is still in the paddock as he deserves a decent break,” he reported.“He will be aimed at the major sprint races again like the Railway and Telegraph so he won’t come back in for another month.
“Rock Diva has been back for a few months now and is getting through her work well. We are thinking about a Melbourne campaign for her but that decision won’t be made for a wee while yet.“Allez Eagle has also been in for a few weeks now and he will be aimed at some of the good mile races at Ellerslie over the summer.”
