In a thrilling display of grit and speed, the Luke Fernie-trained gelding Sky Duke emphatically answered questions about his stamina to claim victory in the feature $100,000 Boxing Day Dash at Pinjarra on Tuesday.
A Commanding Performance Silences Critics
Ridden expertly by champion jockey Chris Parnham, Sky Duke ($3.40 favourite) settled just behind the early leaders in the 1300-metre sprint. Many had doubted the four-year-old's ability to see out the trip strongly, but those doubts were put to bed in the straight. Sky Duke surged to the front and held off a late challenge from the fast-finishing Premium Girl to win by a head. The Clint Johnston-Porter-trained filly Premium Girl ($8) took second, with Alambre ($8.50) a close third.
The win was a testament to the horse's development and the training prowess of Luke Fernie. "He's always shown us a lot of ability," Fernie remarked after the race. The trainer had expressed confidence in Sky Duke's preparation, which clearly paid off on the big stage.
Parnham's Perfect Ride Seals the Deal
Jockey Chris Parnham played a pivotal role in the victory, executing a perfectly timed run. He positioned Sky Duke ideally throughout the race, avoiding any traffic issues and ensuring the horse had plenty in reserve for the final furlong. Parnham's understanding of the Pinjarra track and his coolness under pressure were key factors in navigating the competitive field.
The Boxing Day Dash is one of the highlights of the Western Australian summer racing calendar, drawing a strong crowd and a quality field. Sky Duke's triumph adds a significant black-type victory to his record and sets him up for potentially bigger targets in the future.
What's Next for the Rising Star?
This victory not only netted connections the lion's share of the $100,000 prize pool but also solidified Sky Duke's reputation as a versatile and talented performer. The win proves he can handle pressure and perform at a high level in feature races. Trainer Luke Fernie will now be considering the next steps for his stable star, with options likely including other summer features.
The result was a popular one with punters who had sent Sky Duke out as the clear favourite, and it provided a perfect centrepiece for a fantastic day of horse racing at Pinjarra. The performance ensures Sky Duke's name will be one to watch as the season progresses.
