Pike’s marks return from suspension with win

William Pike returned from suspension in style yesterday, riding Magical Charm to victory in the $16,500 Chubb Maiden (2019m) at the Bunbury Turf Club.

The $1.24 favourite sat towards the back for much of the race, before Pike pulled the filly out three wide on the straight to hunt down Fiona Bell and race leader Dark Tactics ($51), to win by more than a length.

The Grant and Alana Williams-trained three-year-old finally broke maiden status in his fourth start, all being at Bunbury.

More than 2000m seems to be Magical Charm’s preferred distance, after running second over 2038m earlier this month.

Pike copped a 17-day suspension for careless riding on Street Fury in the Magic Millions WA 3YO Trophy earlier this month.