Trainer Bjorn Baker believes Overpass can play the role of giant-killer in the $20 million The Everest, despite being rated one of the outsiders in Saturday’s feature sprint. Baker is adamant his gelding is over the odds and capable of challenging Hong Kong star Ka Ying Rising.
The six-year-old will line up on The Everest day for the third consecutive year, having been unplaced in both the 2022 and 2023 editions before returning to win the Sydney Stakes (1200m) on last year’s undercard. On that occasion, he recorded a faster time than 2024 Everest winner Bella Nipotina, and Baker says his freshness this time around could prove decisive.
“I’m hoping for horse and trainer that experience helps,” Baker said.
“He’s fit. He is very good first-up and that’s the key. That’s something we have learned over time. His best record is after a break, at 1200, on a pretty good surface which we look to get on Saturday.
“He is way over the odds. I’m very happy with him. He had a good gallop on (Tuesday) and he’s bucking his brand off.”
Known for his early speed, Overpass is expected to either lead or sit close to the pace. With rivals such as Mazu and Ka Ying Rising also possessing natural gate speed, a genuine tempo appears certain.
Ka Ying Rising heads the market as the short-priced favourite to become the first Hong Kong-trained horse to capture the world’s richest turf sprint, and Baker concedes his record demands respect.
“He is rated the world’s best racehorse for a reason,” Baker said.
“He has run super times. He’s got a great win record, and he has taken all before him, so you have to respect him immensely. He adds much to the race.”
When asked where his own support lies, Baker’s loyalty was unwavering.
“Will I be backing him? No. I’ll be backing Overpass each-way,” he said.
“I’m always happy to spoil the party. You’ve got to aim-up and you’ve got to back yourself.
“You’ve got to believe that you can do it and I’ve got a horse we know performs well fresh-up, at the trip, on a good track and I’m confident he can run well.”
Ka Ying Rising remains the $1.70 favourite with betting sites following his barrier seven draw on Tuesday night, with Joliestar ($7, barrier five) the only other runner under double figures.
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