Western Empire set for ambitious campaign targeting Cox Plate
Trainer Grant Williams has shared some plans for Western Empire, the winner of the Northam Stakes.
The talented horse will be targeting a series of Group 3 races: the Belmont Sprint (1400m), Hyperion Stakes (1600m), and Strickland Stakes (2000m) in a planned campaign.
Williams has high hopes for Western Empire to earn a spot in the Cox Plate (2040m) in Melbourne.
The upcoming 2000m Strickland Stakes will play a role in determining if the horse is ready for such a challenge.
Williams holds Western Empire in high regard, considering him one of the best horses he and his co-trainer Alana have ever worked with.
The Belmont Sprint will kick off Perth’s winter weight-for-age series on May 18, followed by the Hyperion Stakes on June 1 and the Strickland Stakes on June 15.
The anticipated Cox Plate is scheduled to take place at Moonee Valley on October 26.
Apart from Western Empire, Williams mentioned that Alsephina, Keshi Boom, and Casino Seventeen are also being considered for these competitions.
Keshi Boom has maintained a 100% record in her four starts, with wins in the Champion Fillies Stakes and Burgess Queen Stakes.
Alsephina finished second to Bustler in the 2022 Railway Stakes, while Casino Seventeen holds the title as the reigning Perth Cup champion.
As Western Empire begins this chapter, Williams and his team will carefully monitor his progress to ensure his fitness and well-being are priorities.
With their eyes set on the Cox Plate, the leading Australian bookmakers are currently offering $13 for Western Empire to become a two-time Group 1 champion on October 26.