Apprentice Chanel Cooper can look forward to her Saturday metropolitan debut after outriding her 4kg claim at Pinjarra this afternoon, riding Lucky I Am from start to finish with aplomb in the Bridgetown Jigsaw Puzzle Gallery Handicap (1200m).
Lucky I Am commenced swiftly from barrier 11 and ran hard out in front, and although the Jim Taylor-trained three-year-old was tiring late and vulnerable with the back markers attacking, she kept going for Cooper and had the wood over Millstee and Come On Emma.
Cooper is in the enviable position of being indentured to WA training giants Grant and Alana Williams and Pinjarra appears to be her happy hunting ground, having secured her first win at the venue a little over 15-months ago when aboard Prince Ragnar.
Although Cooper has taken big strides since her debut and has flourished under the tutelage of Alana Williams, who enjoyed a decorated career as a jockey, reaching Saturday level had taken a little longer than what the young rider would have liked.
“It’s obviously a huge relief,” Cooper said.
“I’m just really happy to get there.”
Cooper is building a good rapport with Lucky I Am, claiming her second win on the Universal Ruler filly after a similar frontrunning ride at Bunbury last month.
Cooper feels fortunate to be associated with Lucky I Am and aside from the Williamses', said Taylor has been a keen ally in assisting her development as a rider.
“He’s been one of my biggest supporters,” Cooper said.
“He is always willing to give us apprentices a crack.
“He’s also a good mentor and tells you, his views.
“I’m really happy he got me the last win.”
Cooper said Lucky I Am is not just a fast horse with electric gate speed but can exhibit a ton of grit, as evidenced when she was there to be run down in the straight.
“I couldn’t believe when I jumped her and crossed them as soon as I did,” Cooper said.
“She’s probably one of the fastest fillies I’ve sat on.
“I could hear them coming, but she’s got a really big heart.
“She digs in and wants to win as well.”
Lucky I Am has been a consistent performer for Taylor and owners, building her record to four wins and seven placings from 13 starts after her latest success.
Taylor toyed with the idea of sending her to the paddock prior to today’s (Wednesday) event but had a change of heart with Cooper’s milestone victory hovering.
Taylor says Cooper is a bright young rider who deserves the opportunity of riding in town on a Saturday.
“That’s why we put her in today, she was ready to go for a spell,” Taylor said.
“I thought she could get away with a class 3 fillies and mares' race, so thought give Chanel a winner and getting her to ride on a Saturday where she deserves to be.
“She’s done very well and having Alana behind her is brilliant.”
Julio Santarelli