'I never dreamt of winning a Cox Plate' - Willie Pike

Willie Pike reflects on his recent victory at the Cox Plate, where he rode Cosmic Crusader to a historic win, marking a significant achievement in his career. Pike shares that he never dreamed of winning such prestigious races, focusing instead on local competitions in Western Australia. His perspective changed when he realized the emotional weight of the victory, particularly seeing owner Bob Peters' heartfelt reaction, highlighting the long journey they both took to reach this moment.

During the interview, Pike discusses the race itself, noting the confidence he felt from Cosmic Crusader's performance as they approached the final stretch. He emphasizes the horse's consistency and adaptability, which he credits for their success against top competitors. Pike also acknowledges the role of trainer Andrea Leek in preparing the horse for the challenge, underscoring the collaborative effort behind the win.

Looking ahead, Pike is set to compete in upcoming races, including the Derby and Melbourne Cup, expressing excitement about the opportunities that lie ahead. He also shares a light-hearted moment from the celebrations, where he found himself on the shoulders of Richmond forward Tom Lynch, enjoying the atmosphere and camaraderie following the monumental win.

Cox Plate winning jockey Willie Pike joined Belly & Peter after his famous win on Cosmic Crusader. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices