In a sport where youth often reigns supreme, eight-year-old Western Empire is proving that class is permanent. The veteran gelding enters Saturday's Group 2 Lee Steere Stakes at Ascot in what his trainer describes as career-best form, defying conventional racing wisdom about age and performance.
The Ageless Wonder
Trainer Neville Parnham can't hide his enthusiasm when discussing his stable star's current condition. "He's in super order," Parnham declared. "I couldn't be happier with him. He's probably going as well, if not better, than he's ever gone in his life."
This glowing assessment comes despite Western Empire being in the twilight of his racing career. Most horses his age are enjoying retirement, but this seasoned campaigner continues to compete at the highest level of Western Australian racing.
Lee Steere Stakes Challenge
The $250,000 Lee Steere Stakes presents a formidable challenge, with Western Empire set to face some of WA's most talented weight-for-age competitors over the 1400-metre course. The race serves as a crucial lead-up to bigger events, testing horses against elite company.
Parnham acknowledges the quality of the field but remains confident in his charge's abilities. "It's a good, competitive race as you'd expect," he noted, while emphasizing his horse's readiness for the challenge ahead.
Proven Performer
Western Empire brings impressive credentials to the starting gates, including:
- Multiple Group race victories throughout his career
- Consistent performances against top-tier competition
- Proven ability at Ascot's challenging track
- Experience that younger rivals simply cannot match
Training Perfection
The gelding's preparation has been meticulously managed, with Parnham and his team leaving no stone unturned. Recent track work and trials have shown the old warrior retains all his speed and competitive spirit, suggesting he's more than capable of mixing it with younger rivals.
Western Empire's story serves as inspiration for connections of older horses throughout the racing world. His continued excellence at eight years young demonstrates that with proper care and management, veteran thoroughbreds can not only compete but excel against their younger counterparts.
As the Lee Steere Stakes approaches, all eyes will be on this remarkable veteran to see if he can turn back the clock once more and add another chapter to his already impressive racing legacy.
