Randwick witnessed a stirring finish to the Concorde Stakes as Headwall produced a storming run from the back to land the Group 3 sprint, strengthening his credentials for a potential Everest appearance. But it was the second-placed Lady Shenandoah, flashing home after a tough run, who ensured the runner-up’s effort drew just as much praise.

Returning for his new campaign, Headwall picked up right where he left off in the autumn. Settling off the speed, the six-year-old was expertly angled into the clear by Zac Lloyd and powered home to deny Lady Shenandoah in the shadows of the post. It was a win that trainer Matt Smith hopes can propel him into Australia’s richest race. “It’s hard to get in, everybody wants a slot, but I think the timing is right for him now,” Smith said. “He’s had a trouble-free prep and we just wanted to see him deliver like that.”

Headwall ($4.20) edged out Lady Shenandoah ($2.60 fav) by a short head, with Ostraka ($31) another half-length away in third. Waller has switched Lady Shenandoah’s program to sprinting and McDonald was quick to highlight her quality. “She was gallant. You can’t be disappointed with that,” he said.

The market reacted immediately, with Headwall’s Everest quote slashed to $26 and Lady Shenandoah now $8. Ka Ying Rising remains the dominant $1.80 favourite. Jimmysstar, locked in for The Everest, finished fifth at his first 1000m attempt, but Ethan Brown was unconcerned. “He flattened out mid-race but really hit the line late. He’s right on track,” the jockey said.