The Everest · 5 Oct 2026
Ka Ying Rising Steps into the Randwick Spotlight
The world's highest-rated horse meets four potential Everest rivals in a key 1000-metre trial before his title defence.
Ka Ying Rising's Everest preparation moves into public view at Randwick on Tuesday morning. The Hong Kong champion is scheduled to contest a 1000-metre barrier trial as David Hayes sharpens him for the $20 million sprint on 17 October.
The trial is no soft rehearsal. Joliestar, Angel Capital, Ninja and Headwall are among the potential Everest rivals due to line up, while King Charles III Stakes contenders Amazing Journey and Apocalyptic have also been nominated.
Zac Purton has travelled to Sydney to ride Ka Ying Rising, with Hayes set to supervise the hit-out. The gelding finished third in the corresponding trial last season before becoming the first overseas-trained winner of The Everest.
Victory in this year's main event would stretch his Hong Kong record winning streak to 22 and bring a tenth Group 1, matching Golden Sixty's elite-level tally. Tuesday is only a trial, but every stride will be watched.
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