Bustler Wins The Railway Stakes

Bustler collects Group One Railway Stakes

It was nearly a year to the date that Bustler ran second to Amelia’s Jewel in the WA Guineas and 12 months on Bustler would be able to go one better in a Group One at Perth’s Ascot Racecourse.

Bustler’s win in the race would be a day the Parnham family would never forget with trainer Neville preparing the horse for the Group One contest before his eldest son Steven would steer him to victory at Ascot. 

The Parnham name has always been synonymous with racing in Western Australia but this was a landmark day with Neville and Stephen claiming there first wins in the race. 

"It's a big thrill to win this race, it's a time-honoured race," veteran trainer Neville Parnham said.

"I've had a few cracks over the years, but always have come up short.

"This year, I thought I had the right horse.

"I don't give Steve riding instructions, I don't give any of the boys instructions, they ride a bit better than what I used to.

"I was rapt when he jumped clean, there was a fair bit of speed coming across.

"The winning move was down the back, when he came up three-deep."

Bustler was backed on the day from $11 into a $9 favourite and was able to hold off a fast finishing Alsephina who had been backed as race favourite prior to the jump of the Railway Stakes.

Jockey and son Stephen said his father deserved all the credit for producing Bustler ready for the win. 

"Sometimes you just ride on instinct and that's what dad lets me do," Steven Parnham said.

"In the run, I was pretty excited.

"When I gave this horse a squeeze he flew, and then I thought 'hold on boy'.

"Dad is a master, I can't have any more admiration for how he gets his horses ready."

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