With four months remaining until the running of The Everest, strategic plays are already underway as undefeated colt Private Harry welcomes the confirmed participation of Hong Kong’s standout sprinter, Ka Ying Rising, in the $20 million race.

This week, the Australian Turf Club (ATC) reached an agreement with the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) to lease its Everest slot for the next two years, ensuring Ka Ying Rising’s presence in the prestigious sprint, representing the HKJC.

Boasting 13 wins from 15 starts, Ka Ying Rising is the early $1.80 favourite for the October 18 spectacle, with Private Harry rated next best at $6.

Sean Driver of Kurrinda Bloodstock, part-owner of Private Harry, is enthusiastic about the clash of elite sprinters and confident in his colt’s development.

“All I will say is they’re going to have to be good to beat him,” Driver said.

“He has put on between 65 and 80 kilos, all muscle. He has grown about an inch-and-a-half.

“You’ve got to remember, he’s only three so he’s still got that bit of growing to do. He looks outstanding. I’m excited.”

Private Harry returned to trainer Nathan Doyle’s Newcastle stable a fortnight ago to commence preparations for his spring campaign.

Unbeaten in five starts including a Group 1 win in The Galaxy (1100m) in March, he is expected to resume in The Shorts before lining up in the Premiere Stakes and The Everest.

Driver noted Private Harry’s relaxed training demeanour is deceiving, but his racing brain is razor-sharp.

“If you’re going off his trackwork, you might not sleep at night,” he admitted.

“But his IQ is through the roof. I imagine he will have his first trial at home, his second trial we’ll come to Sydney, an exhibition gallop and then we’ll go first-up.”

Private Harry joins Ka Ying Rising and T J Smith Stakes winner Briasa as confirmed Everest runners so far.

ATC’s Nevesh Ramdhani praised the international collaboration, calling Ka Ying Rising’s involvement a major boost for Sydney racing.

“Having representation from Hong Kong with such an exciting horse just adds to the depth and quality of not only The Everest but the entire Sydney Everest Carnival,” he said.

Following The Everest, Ka Ying Rising is set to target the $3 million Russell Balding Stakes in Sydney.

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