Last-start winner Piercing proved those who thought she could not double the dose when she produced a spirited burst down the Kranji straight to take out the $55,000 Perth Racing Trophy (1400m) for Class 4 gallopers on Sunday.

Drawn in 14 and taking on slightly better company, the Steven Burridge-trained mare by Pins had few admirers at $162 but she let down beautifully after racing from a rearward position to put her head in front where it mattered. 


Bonny mare Piercing (Matthew Kellady) is home and hosed in the Perth Racing Trophy.

Though she was inclined to lay in, Piercing under the expert guidance of Matthew Kellady plugged on to score by half-a-length from August Moon (Weichong Marwing), with favourite Crown Horse (Noel Callow) running on late for third a short head away.

Burridge was delighted with the mare’s third win, as were the Sydney-based Arexevan Stable connections who were sporting ties matching Piercing’s orange and blue spots colours.

“She is a very honest mare who needs a trouble-free run to be at her best,” said Burridge.

“I thought she raced a lot better today. She got back from her wide draw and though she was getting a bit out of her class, she came on very well and won okay.”

Kellady, who has now ridden the mare at all of her 11 starts bar two, was tickled pink by her latest win.

“She had a beautiful run from the back. She started to race better when a horse kicked up on the outside and gave her cover,” said Kellady.

“She started to lay in but she always does that. I was ready for her and once I rode her hands and heels, she knuckled down and won well.

“I like that mare. I’ve won three times on her now and she’s now given me a win on SIA Cup day.”

Kellady would also be pleased by the happy coincidence of the race being named after the place where he had his formative years as an apprentice, Perth.

Piercing clocked 1min 23.1secs for the 1400m and has now amassed close to $120,000 in stakes money.