Randwick: Ka Ying Rising faces Australia's stars in The Everest

Friday night, Sydney’s Royal Randwick once again becomes hallowed ground for sprinters. The Everest returns with its record US$12.95 million purse and all eyes are on Ka Ying Rising from Hong Kong, the world’s highest-rated turf sprinter. He brings a 13-race unbeaten streak and global swagger to a field loaded with Australia’s best: War Machine, Joliestar, Jimmysstar and Briasa.

The Everest is the seventh race on a 10-race card that also features the US$3.24 million King Charles III Stakes (G1). First post is 9:30 p.m. EDT, 6.30 p.m. PDT.

Ka Ying Rising: The global ace

Ka Ying Rising’s credentials speak for themselves. Confirmed early as a slot-holder, he enters The Everest under the banner of the Hong Kong Jockey Club via a slot lease with the Australian Turf Club. Timeform rated at 135, in the company of legends like Black Caviar and Winx, he is the highest-rated horse in the world and widely regarded as the fastest sprinter on the planet.

His lead-up has been strong: an easy win in the Chief Executive’s Cup (G1) in Hong Kong baselined his form. Still, in his Randwick trial last week he was beaten by Linebacker and Overpass, finishing third, a probe that suggests he’s sharpened but not invincible.

Trainer David Hayes is bullish. He says the draw in post 7 suits Ka Ying Rising’s tactical options. “He’ll be able to choose whether to go forward or sit behind the speed.” Meanwhile, Zac Purton admits the biggest test is how Ka Ying handles the unique stresses of Randwick and fast, firm turf.

Australia’s best: War Machine, Joliestar, Jimmysstar and Briasa

Challengers won’t hand over the crown easily.

War Machine is the local breakout, trained by the Hayes family, a narrative clash in itself. Following a Stradbroke Handicap (G1) victory, he’s entered The Everest ready to give Australian fans something to cheer.

Joliestar is the polished contender from Chris Waller’s stable. Bolstered by a commanding win in the Shorts (G2) over Briasa, she’s emerged as one of Ka Ying Rising’s most credible threats. J-Mac to mount.

Last year’s winning trainer Ciaron Maher enters a repeat bid with Jimmysstar. His All Aged Stakes (G1) victory earlier this year was super impressive and Maher has him tuned to perfection with two prep runs.

Briasa is no longer the underdog. Her performance in the Premiere Stakes (G2), holding off Jimmysstar, has turned heads. Trainers and markets increasingly see her as a serious pace monster.

King Charles Stakes: Australia’s turf idols

The King Charles III, carded as the ninth race, is more than just a feature mile. It’s a clash of Australia’s most popular racehorses: Fangirl, Pride of Jenni, Mr Brightside and Ceolwulf.

Fangirl, the winner of the 2023 edition, returns with her trademark late burst and a fanbase that follows her every start. The Chris Waller-trained mare has become a symbol of consistency, class and acceleration.

She faces stiff opposition from Pride of Jenni, the daring frontrunner whose all-or-nothing style lit up the 2024 edition and every other race she’s been in. No horse captures the crowd quite like Jenni at full flight.

Mr Brightside, the people’s champion, brings a phenomenal mile record and unshakeable popularity. A dual Doncaster Mile (G1) winner, also second in the 2023 edition of the King Charles, he’s the standard-bearer for toughness and heart.

Also lining up is 2024 King Charles winner Ceolwulf, who will try to deliver a peak performance and go back-to-back.

FanDuel TV’s Andrew Anderson and Sky Racing World’s Jason Witham and Kiersten Duke will broadcast live from Randwick on FanDuel TV. Additionally, DRF en Español will carry a Spanish broadcast with Roberto Rodriguez. 

Every race will be live-streamed in HD on the Sky Racing World App, skyracingworld.com and major ADW platforms such as FanDuel, TwinSpires, Xpressbet, NYRABets, WatchandWager, HPIbet, TVG and AmWager. Wagering is also available via these ADW platforms. Fans can get free access to live-streaming, past performances, and expert picks on all races at skyracingworld.com.

Coverage of Randwick for Horse Racing Nation is made possible through a sponsorship by Sky Racing World.