Brief
Hayes says wide gate poses no problem for Ka Ying Rising ahead of Everest
Trainer David Hayes believes rain and a wide gate will not affect Ka Ying Rising’s chances in Saturday’s Everest.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Trainer David Hayes told the SMH that the rain‑soaked barrier draw at Luna Park on Tuesday and a gate 11 of 12 assignment will not hinder Hong Kong superstar Ka Ying Rising ahead of the $20 million Everest at Randwick on Saturday.
What happened
The Everest barrier draw was broadcast from Sydney’s Luna Park under steady rain, with the draw projected onto the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Ka Ying Rising, the defending champion and $1.40 favourite, drew gate 11 of 12 for the 1,200‑metre race on 19 October at Randwick.
What the reports add
Hayes said the wide gate is less of a concern than a heavy track, noting the horse’s ability to adapt to different tempos. He contrasted the Randwick straight with Sha Tin’s short 200‑metre finish, saying the longer run at Randwick is “wonderful.” The trainer also recalled the horse’s past performances on wet ground, including a win on a yielding track and a trial on slush.
What was said
Hayes told the outlet, “He’ll come across and if the tempo is too fast for him, he’ll sit second or third. If it’s not fast enough, he’ll lead.” He added, “I’d be more worried about being boxed in in one, two or three and he had a slow jump. I think he will be out of trouble and the Randwick 1200, it’s wonderful.” Regarding the rain, Hayes said, “Luckily it’s Tuesday. If it was Friday, I’d be a bit worried,” noting the forecast predicts drier conditions for race day.
How it came about
Ka Ying Rising has broken the Sha Tin track record four times since winning his first overseas assignment last year in the Everest. The horse’s trainer, Hayes, purchased the colt after observing its performance on slow to heavy tracks, and has since seen it handle a variety of conditions in Australia.
Key facts
- Ka Ying Rising drew gate 11 of 12 for the Everest at Randwick. (smh.com.au)
- Trainer David Hayes says a wide gate is less concerning than a heavy track. (smh.com.au)
- The barrier draw was broadcast from Luna Park under steady rain. (smh.com.au)
- Hayes believes the horse can adapt to any tempo and handle wet conditions. (smh.com.au)
- Ka Ying Rising has broken the Sha Tin track record four times since last year. (smh.com.au)
Sources
- [1] smh.com.au — originally reported as “The Everest barrier draw: Hong Kong superstar Ka Ying Rising lands gate 11 ahead of Saturday’s $20 million race”
