Trainer David Hayes has laughed off rumours about Ka Ying Rising’s condition, insisting his champion sprinter is “ready to rumble” ahead of Saturday’s $20 million The Everest (1200m) at Randwick.

Social media speculation on Sunday claimed the Hong Kong star was lame and off his feed, but Hayes quickly denied the reports after a strong gallop at Canterbury on Monday. “It was fake news,” Hayes said. “I got a call from my son JD, who told me Gareth Hall’s Twitter was hacked — it had Ka Ying Rising scratched and lame. That’s not the horse I’ve been training anyway.”

Ka Ying Rising worked solo, finishing his final 600m in 38 seconds with a slick final furlong of 12. “He’s come on beautifully since the trial,” Hayes said. “He’s recovered well, worked strongly, and looks right where we want him. I think he’s ready to rumble.”

Monday’s gallop will be the gelding’s final serious piece of work before the big race, with light training scheduled during the week. “He’ll canter Wednesday and just stretch his legs Thursday,” Hayes confirmed.

The Everest field was finalised on Monday, with Yulong announcing Mazu as their slot representative following Private Harry’s withdrawal. “It’s disappointing for Private Harry, but to secure Mazu is a massive positive,” said Yulong COO Sam Fairgray. “Having three live chances in The Everest — Mazu, Angel Capital, and Magic Time — puts us in a strong position.”

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