Champion jockey William Pike opens up on his anti-vax COVID stance after bad flu shot reaction

Champion Perth jockey William Pike has revealed his severe reaction to the influenza vaccination resulted in the anti-COVID vax stance that is forcing his transfer to Sydney racing. Breaking his silence on a shock exit plan which rocked the local thoroughbred industry, Pike said his family remained united ahead of WA’s mandatory double-vax rules. Jockeys are clear to ride in NSW without being vaccinated, in contrast to regulations that will hit WA racing participants on February 5. Pike has now spoken about the adverse reaction to a flu shot that played a part in his hesitancy to receive the COVID-19 jab. “That is definitely one of the main reasons why,” Pike told RSN 927. “I wasn’t sick when I tried to do a preventative measure (influenza vaccination) and I got really sick. “It didn’t add up in my mind to try that again. “It’s more a question (vaccination stance) that you sit down and have a cup of coffee over, not something you discuss on radio. “I have my own personal and private reasons for it. “As far as a family goes, we’re pretty united. We know who we are and what we’re wanting to do. We’re very united and as happy as can be under circumstances.” The 35-year-old Wizard said he would adopt a philosophical approach to his Sydney venture. “I have to take every day as it comes,” he said. “All I’m trying to do is something within the rules. “I’m not asking for anything special. The rules in Sydney allow me to ride, so that’s what I’m going to pursue.” The star hoop said he had no hard feelings towards WA administrators enforcing the mandatory double vaccination. “Obviously, I would have liked to keep riding in WA, but that’s not an option,” he said. “Everyone’s doing what they need to keep their respective industries going. So there’s no animosity or anything from my side. “It is what it is. I’m exploring all options to keep going. Maybe I’m just going to Sydney to unwind a bit.” Pike said his family would stay in WA for a while, before eventually joining him in Sydney. “Hopefully, it can be smooth sailing. But I suppose time will tell,” he said. Excited by his new challenge in NSW, Pike is under no illusions about breaking into ranks of top Sydney riders headed by James McDonald, Tommy Berry, Nash Rawiller and Kerrin McEvoy. “There’s some big names,” Pike said. “It’s definitely not going to be easy for me. I’m not expecting to have a head start. I’m well aware it will be hard work. “I’m looking forward to the challenge. It’ll be a bit of an eye-opener and a lifestyle change for me. “I’ve always been confident in my ability. I’ve always thought I could do it. “I’m just a bloke trying to carry on. I’m just trying to make choices that I think are right for me.” Pike’s racing manager Dale Verhagen said the jockey planned to launch his NSW career in mid-February. “Top stables are already contacting me about William’s arrival in Sydney,” Verhagen said. “As soon as his move was announced, Annabel Neasham text me, saying it would be fantastic to have him there. “Team Hawkes have also been in contact and I have informed James Cummings of William’s Sydney shift. “He will ride there in the autumn and spring carnivals.”