Talk Not Cheap From Pearce Brothers

Perth's Pearce brothers training partnership is gearing up for a big spring as exciting filly Talkanco readies to return, with the Ascot Pinnacles Carnival firmly on the radar. The I'm All The Talk filly made a serious impression in her debut season, claiming three wins from five starts and amassing more than half a million dollars in prizemoney. Among her achievements were Group success in the Karrakatta Plate (1200m) and Sires' Produce Stakes (1400m), backed up by placings in the Supremacy Stakes (1000m) and Crystal Slipper (1100m), confirming her position among the state's most talented juveniles. Now a new season 3YO, racingwa.com.au reports she'll begin her campaign with a trial before targeting the Listed Belgravia Stakes (1200m) at Ascot on October 25. From there, the Pearces are keeping options open. "We've got the option of going to the Placid Ark Stakes (1200m) or stepping up and going down a Guineas (1600m) line," said Ben Pearce, speaking on Tabradio. While breeder Ian Riley has expressed reservations about the mile based on pedigree, Pearce noted they'll take guidance from riders during the prep. "She's come back super and looks a million bucks," he said. "She's had a month's work and is tracking well." Elsewhere in the yard, seasoned campaigner Let's Galahvant is nearing a return after recovering from a tendon issue. The rising eight-year-old, who captured the Gr3 Strickland Stakes (2000m) last year at Belmont, remains a stable favourite after 47 starts and countless gritty efforts. "He's tracking really well and due for a scan," Pearce said. "If we get the all clear, we'll push on to full work and aim him towards the Railway (1600m) and the Ted Van Heemst Stakes (2100m)." Unfortunately, stablemate Triple Jay will miss the carnival, though the team are hopeful he'll be back for an autumn campaign. Before all that unfolds, the Pearces are focused on more immediate targets. They'll head to Pinjarra on Wednesday with five runners, among them Climb On Top, who shapes as their strongest hope in the Essential Air Handicap (1400m). With spring starting to warm up and multiple cards in play, the next few weeks could help set the tone for another successful carnival assault from the well-regarded Western Australian stable.