The stage is set for a thrilling edition of the Group 1 $1.5 million Railway Stakes (1600m) this Saturday at Ascot, with the final field confirmation setting up a classic West versus East showdown.
WA Powerhouses Lead the Charge
Leading the local charge for trainers Grant and Alana Williams are the $4 co-favourites, Western Empire and Watch Me Rock, who find themselves at opposite ends of the weight scale. Western Empire, the winner of the 2024 Gold Rush, has been reunited with jockey Billy Egan and will carry the top weight of 58kg. In a fascinating twist, star jockey William Pike has chosen to ride Watch Me Rock, who will carry a much lighter 54kg, just one kilogram above the minimum.
The Eastern States Invasion
However, the local heroes face a significant challenge from three raiders from the eastern states, who arrived by air on Monday night. The interstate contingent includes Iowna Merc ($17), Osipenko ($8), and Depth Of Character ($11), each bringing a unique form line and set of challenges for the feature mile race.
Iowna Merc, trained by Bjorn Baker who is no stranger to success at Ascot, will carry 56.5kg. The NSW galloper has only attempted the mile once in his 29-start career, a effort in this year's Doncaster where he settled near last and failed to threaten. His form shows a recent struggle in the Russell Balding, finishing 18 lengths behind the winner. His racing pattern of settling back in the field means a favourable barrier draw will be crucial for his chances.
Osipenko, from the powerful Chris Waller stable, has been assigned 55kg and brings proven stamina to the race. The gelding won the January Cup (2000m) at Rosehill earlier this year and has been tested over even longer distances. He arrives in strong form, having shouldered a hefty 62kg to victory in the Little Dance (1600m) at Randwick a fortnight ago. Like Iowna Merc, he has typically been ridden cold in his recent runs.
Depth Of Character, trained by Annabel and Rob Archibald, is following the same blueprint that led to Port Lockroy's shock Railway Stakes victory last year. Carrying 53.5kg, the four-year-old's form mirrors that of his stable predecessor. He was an unlucky eighth in the Silver Eagle (1300m) after being badly held up, before finishing a respectable two lengths from the unbeaten Autumn Glow in the Golden Eagle (1500m). His weight is considered attractive given the scarcity of horses on the minimum mark this year.
A Race of Tactics and Talent
The 2025 Railway Stakes promises to be a tactical affair. The three eastern raiders all share a similar pattern of racing from behind, which could lead to a crowded and competitive finish if the pace is genuine. The local hopes, particularly the favoured pair from the Williams stable, will be looking to use their home-track advantage to counter the interstate threat. With a perfect mix of established weight-for-age stars and rising talents, this year's edition is shaping up as one of the most open and intriguing in recent memory.
