Pier a game changer for Kiwi trainer ahead of the 2025 Epsom Handicap

Pier has the chance to reward New Zealand trainer Darryn Weatherley’s persistence with a first Sydney Group 1 win in Saturday’s Epsom Handicap (1600m) at Randwick.

Weatherley’s previous attempts at Australian glory proved fruitless, with Mali Ston and Maria Farina finishing unplaced in 2022, and Arby out of the placings in the 2023 Queensland Derby. But Pier has provided a turnaround, collecting a Listed win in the The Wayne Wilson (1600m) and two placings from three starts this year.

“We have brought over a couple of horses before. We’ve had a horse in a Queensland Derby and I brought Pier here as a three-year-old,” Weatherley said. “Each time we got a blood nose. We had to go home with nothing.”

“When we brought Pier back this time he’s had three runs in Australia for two thirds and a win so I don’t feel greedy. But we’ve gone home with our tail between our legs a few times so hopefully we can put our foot on the till again on Saturday.”

Pier tuned up with a late-charging third to Autumn Glow in the Theo Marks Stakes (1300m) and looks better placed back at the mile, where his record stands at two wins from three attempts. A wide barrier 13 is his only concern.

“I had one job from the family at home to draw a good alley but anyway,” Weatherley said. “At least we can keep an eye on Autumn Glow. She is obviously an exceptional filly. He’s a long-striding horse so that gives us a few options.”

Ethan Brown, who gave Weatherley his first Sydney Group 1 aboard Jimmysstar in the All Aged Stakes, will again ride Pier. Brown will also partner Jimmysstar in the Premiere Stakes as the gelding heads toward The Everest.

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