Champion trainer David Hayes finally had reason to smile ahead of The Everest, after his Hong Kong superstar Ka Ying Rising drew perfectly in barrier seven for Saturday’s $20 million sprint at Randwick.
After weeks of speculation, stress, and even false social media reports suggesting the gelding was in doubt for the race, Hayes could breathe a sigh of relief following Tuesday night’s barrier draw, held in spectacular fashion via a drone light show above Sydney Harbour.
“I’m happy,” Hayes said shortly after the draw. “I just thought anywhere not the complete outside, of course, (was preferable) because it’s always more difficult out there. I think Zac (Purton, jockey) can choose whether he goes right forward or follows what could be the frantic pace. Zac will jump fast for sure and if the pace is hectic, he’ll back out of it – some of his best wins have been sitting off the pace, his most impressive wins probably win have been sitting off – but if they miss the start and don’t go fast, he’ll lead. He’s that sort of horse and Zac’s that sort of jockey.”
The Hong Kong sprint sensation will jump from between Lady Shenandoah (barrier six) and Jedibeel (barrier eight) in what shapes as one of the strongest renewals of the race. Inside him are Tempted (one), Angel Capital (three), War Machine (four) and Joliestar (five), while T J Smith Stakes winner Briasa (10), Jimmysstar (11) and Magic Time (12) complete the field.
Ka Ying Rising firmed from $1.70 into $1.60 with bookmakers following the draw, further cementing his place as favourite to deliver Hayes a famous Everest triumph. The trainer said the gelding has improved sharply since his third-placed trial at Randwick last week.
“He was quite above himself in the trial, but that trial has brought him back to a nice, calm level and his weight’s dropped beautifully and I think we’ve got him where we want him,” Hayes said.
Hayes’ calm confidence suggests Ka Ying Rising is ready to showcase his world-class talent on Australian soil. With a favourable barrier, top jockey Zac Purton in the saddle, and stable momentum building, the Hong Kong star looks set to live up to his short quote on Saturday.
2025 THE EVEREST BARRIER DRAW
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