Fan favourite jockey William Pike looks set to continue his career in Sydney ahead of the introduction of a vaccine mandate in Western Australia.
From February 5, WA will require proof of vaccination for all events over 1000 people.
The 'Wizard of the West' has previously expressed his concerns around the COVID-19 vaccine and earlier this month admitted he may have to retire.
Pike has however reportedly made the call to move to Sydney where there is currently no requirement for jockeys to be fully vaccinated.
Julio Santerelli of Racing and Wagering WA reported the news on Tuesday.
William Pike will relocate to Sydney to continue his riding career. Will apply for license this week. Under current rules jockeys are not required to be double vaccinated in NSW. @TABradio @TAB_touch @TheRacesWA
— Julio Santarelli (@santassnippets) January 17, 2022
As one of the best performed and notable jockeys in WA, Pike has long been a favourite of east coast fans looking to continue punting after the last.
The 35-year-old has 15 Group 1 wins to his name but has only ever had three rides in New South Wales metro meets, failing to place.
Just how long he intends to remain in Sydney is unknown, but WA's tight biosecurity regulations don't appear to sit well with Pike.
"For me as an athlete as well, health implications definitely have a play in it," he told Freedom Media WA.
"The vaccines came around really quickly, how did it get here so quick? I just had questions and it doesn't feel like we’ve had the time to digest it and take it all on board in an intelligent way."
