Veteran Hoop Chases Further Kalgoorlie Memories
4 October, 2018
WA Country Cups
Veteran jockey Peter Hall is fondly known in racing circles as the country cups king of Western Australia.
The popular 51-year-old has earned that title after winning a host of major country races across the state.
Broome Cups, Bunbury Cups, Pinjarra Cups, Esperance Cups, Albany Cups and Northam Cups are just some of the races that rate highly on Hall’s list of achievements.
The Kalgoorlie Cup also presents proudly on Hall’s racing resume and is a race that revives fond memories, his name is etched on the honour roll twice.
Hall won on Opening Twist (2001), trained by Fay Harding and later aboard Black Tom (2006), a stayer prepared by respected horseman Frank Maynard.
Hall says the iconic Goldfields race round is steeped in racing tradition and stirs happy recollections every year.
“I realised what a serious race it was the first time with Opening Twist,” Hall said.
“Then winning it with Black Tom and Frank Maynard was such a great moment.
“He’s an idol in Kalgoorlie to a lot of people and was the toast of the town when we won.
“The race round is so massive and they were great moments personally.
“To be able to share and reccolect those special memories is really good.”
Hall and the Kalgoorlie Cup are not done with just yet. The experienced hoop is a popular pick to lock in a third highlight with State Prosecutor.
It’s a plum pick-up ride with champion jockey William Pike elected to partner Enticing Star in the Listed Birthday Stakes (1200m) at Belmont.
State Prosecutor ran second to First Affair in the Boulder Cup (2100m), but meets her better at the weights and is favourite to turn the tables.
State Prosecutor, a son of More Than Ready, holds $2.25 Tab favouritism over First Affair ($2.75) with At The Ready next at $6.50.
“I definitely think he is in with a chance for sure,” Hall said.
“I rode him once before and he is a nice horse.
“His form has been very good.”
State Prosecutor is a member of trainers Grant and Alana Williams and leading owner-breeder Bob Peters’ group of top horses.
With the Ascot carnival fast approaching, Hall said he was delighted to be reunited with the powerful stable again.
“Bob has been very good to me and it’s nice to have the opportunity of winning another big race for him,” Hall said.
“It’s great to be part of the team with top horses who perform and compete at the highest level.
“It’s exactly what an old jockey needs for sure.”
Julio Santarelli