Speculation and strategy are ramping up ahead of the $20 million The Everest, with unbeaten colt Private Harry set to clash with Hong Kong’s star Ka Ying Rising following confirmation of the latter’s slot in the race.

The Australian Turf Club (ATC) has brokered a two-year agreement with the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) to lease its Everest position, officially locking in Ka Ying Rising—currently the $1.80 favourite—for the October 18 event.

Private Harry, trained by Nathan Doyle and unbeaten from five career starts, sits on the second line of betting at $6 and is being readied for a strong spring return.

“All I will say is they’re going to have to be good to beat him,” said co-owner Sean Driver of Kurrinda Bloodstock.

“He’s added around 65 to 80 kilograms of pure muscle and has grown over an inch. He’s still maturing, and he looks incredible.”

Private Harry is now back in work at Doyle’s Newcastle base following his impressive win in the Group 1 The Galaxy (1100m) in March. His expected path to The Everest includes runs in The Shorts and the Premiere Stakes.

Driver said the colt’s low-key training habits belie his competitive edge on race day.

“You wouldn’t rate him off his gallops, but when it matters, he’s a machine,” Driver said. “He’ll likely have a local trial, a Sydney trial, then an exhibition gallop before resuming.”

So far, Private Harry, Ka Ying Rising and T J Smith Stakes winner Briasa have secured spots in this year’s Everest lineup.

ATC’s Nevesh Ramdhani said the inclusion of Ka Ying Rising brings international excitement to the Sydney spring scene.

“It’s a major coup to have a horse of his quality. It elevates The Everest and the broader Everest Carnival,” he said.

Ka Ying Rising is expected to also line up in the lucrative Russell Balding Stakes two weeks after The Everest.

For those keen to place a bet on The Everest, make sure to check out the best Australian betting sites for value-packed odds and exclusive promotions during the Spring Carnival.