New Zealand-bred sprinting sensation Ka Ying Rising was the first horse to have his barrier revealed for Saturday’s $A20 million ($NZ22.78m) group 1 The Everest (1200m), and trainer David Hayes could not have been happier with the draw.
The son of Shamexpress, who rose to stardom with 13 successive victories in Hong Kong, will jump from barrier 7 in the highly-anticipated Randwick feature.
Lady Shenandoah is directly to his inside and outsider Jedibeel is in gate 8.
Hayes indicated the draw had been in the range he had hoped, giving jockey Zac Purton options on the versatile gelding.
"[It’s] perfect. Anywhere from [barrier] four to eight, I was going to be happy with and we got there," Hayes said.
"[He can] jump fast and get a good position — that’s a good barrier.
"I think Zac can choose whether he goes right forward or follows what could be a frantic pace.
‘‘Zac will jump fast, for sure, and if the pace is hectic, he’ll back out of it. Some of his most impressive wins have been sitting off the pace.
"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."
Ka Ying Rising has been the centre of international interest in The Everest following his third-placed barrier trial last week, but settled social media speculation of a possible scratching with a strong hit-out at Canterbury on Monday.
"He’s in really good form. I’m very happy with him," Hayes said.
Cambridge Stud-owned mare Joliestar is the $6 second favourite after drawing barrier 5, which looks ideal for a mare who would be best in a midfield spot.
James McDonald has been confirmed to partner her, choosing the daughter of Zoustar over stablemate Lady Shenandoah.
Former New Zealand-trained sprinter Jimmysstar, who is still part-owned here, is the $9 third favourite even after drawing barrier 11. — LOVERACING.NZ News Desk
