Emotions ride high for Josh Brown in the Esperance Cup

Racing is often seen as a tough sport, but emotions will be front and center when Passion For War competes in Sunday’s Freight Lines Group Esperance Cup (2010m). The gelding, coming off a recent win, will line up in the Esperance Cup, but without the guidance of his former trainer, Jeff Eeles, who tragically passed away last week after a heart attack in Perth. Eeles, a former jockey and beloved figure in the Esperance racing community, had trained Passion For War to three victories after the horse’s initial stint under Paul Jordan.

In a heartfelt gesture, Josh Brown, a close family friend, will saddle up Passion For War for the cup, hoping a win will honor Eeles’ memory. Brown, a young and talented horseman, admits the task is emotional but finds comfort in the belief that Eeles will be watching over him. “Jeff was like family to me, and I was the last person to speak to him,” Brown told Racing WA. “He was on his horse when he had the heart attack, and it was a devastating moment. His family asked me to take care of the horse so Jeff could have one last run in the cup, and I didn’t hesitate to agree.”

Brown’s kindness has already brought some solace to the Eeles family. Two weeks ago, during a time of grief, Passion For War pulled off a stunning upset in a lead-up race. As a $71 outsider, the gelding led from start to finish, defeating the highly fancied Uncompromised. Brown hopes for a similar outcome in the Esperance Cup. “When he won that race, Jeff was in ICU, and it was incredibly emotional,” Brown recalled. “Jeff was still alive when the race was run, and it felt like a small victory for him.”

Despite the emotional weight, Brown believes Passion For War has a genuine chance. “Uncompromised is the star of Esperance, and True Chance is also strong, but Passion For War has beaten both,” Brown said. “He’s improved when leading, and he’s proven hard to catch. He’ll be a long shot, but we’re hopeful he can perform well for the family.” Brown also has high hopes for Elite Fighter, another contender in the cup. The six-year-old has been consistent this season, with two wins and two seconds from five starts at Esperance.

Passion For War will start from barrier two with jockey Brandon Louis, while Elite Fighter, priced at $21, will jump from gate four with Brayden Gaerth. Stormageddon, the $1.75 favorite, will be ridden by Clint Johnston-Porter. For more betting details, visit online betting sites.