Opinions were split following Hong Kong superstar Ka Ying Rising’s first and only official Australian trial ahead of The Everest, but trainer David Hayes remains adamant his champion sprinter will be spot on come race day.
In a high-class 1000m heat at Randwick on Tuesday morning, Ka Ying Rising — partnered by champion jockey Zac Purton, who flew in from Hong Kong for the ride — finished third, beaten a head by Linebacker with Overpass splitting the pair. The trio clocked 58.39 seconds and put a clear margin on fellow Everest contenders Joliestar and Angel Capital, as well as star milers Mr Brightside and Fangirl.
Hayes said the trial was exactly what his horse needed after a month between runs and was confident the four-time Group 1 winner would tighten up considerably for the run.
“It was a good, solid trial but he did need it,” Hayes said. “He had a really good, hard hit out — he probably went a bit easier than the ones behind him. I promise he’ll be twenty pounds lighter next week. He blew a few cobwebs out and he’ll really come on a lot for that. He’ll have a nice gallop on Monday (October 13th) and he’ll be right for the big one.”
Jockey Zac Purton agreed the run would bring Ka Ying Rising forward, describing the hit-out as a “pass mark” while expecting noticeable improvement ahead of The Everest.
“He was certainly feeling the moment a little bit and carrying a bit more condition than his race weight,” Purton said. “The ground was softer than what he’s used to, but he got through it okay. It’s a pass mark, but he’ll need to be better on race day — that’s the challenge we wanted to take.”
For Hayes, returning to Australia with the world’s top-rated sprinter has been a surreal experience. The former head of Lindsay Park Racing said having a horse of Ka Ying Rising’s calibre is an unexpected privilege.
“It’s a bit different coming home,” Hayes said. “In Hong Kong you have a small pool of horses, so you’re less likely to get a superstar. You only get ten or twelve new horses, and for him to turn up — I really didn’t expect that.”
Ka Ying Rising is rated the world’s best sprinter and remains a $1.50 favourite for the $20 million Group 1 The Everest (1200m) at Randwick on October 18.
Ten of the twelve slots for The Everest have now been filled. Yulong Investments are seeking a replacement for Private Harry after his early spell, while Godolphin is expected to choose between Tempted and Beiwacht for its slot.
With Hayes’ confidence and Purton’s precision, Ka Ying Rising looks poised to justify his lofty reputation. Punters can view updated The Everest odds and betting markets at Australia’s best betting sites.