The Australian Turf Club has called for expressions of interest for its slot in the $14 million Everest.
The club says it will again look domestically and overseas for a runner to partner the ATC in the world’s richest race on turf at Randwick in October.
It says criteria including but not limited to the following will be used in the search for a slot partner:
* Career record and international rating;
* Recent performance and profile;
* Performances at Group level in recognised thoroughbred racing countries;
* Extent of the commercial proposal put forward by owners or representatives.
In the inaugural Everest in 2017, the ATC joined with Australian Bloodstock and its Japanese import Brave Smash who ran third and last year partnered with Godolphin and Osborne Bulls for another third.
Both editions of The Everest (1200m) have been won by Redzel.
ATC general manager racing, wagering and international, James Ross, said the Everest was again creating huge interest five months out from the race.
“The ATC remains diligent in its search for a suitable horse who will not only be highly competitive in this world-class race but also offer marketing and promotional opportunities to a broad audience,” Ross said.
“Racing fans from around the world will be following the key pathway races that lead to selection and we look forward to working with interested parties.”
ATC is asking interested parties to lodge formal expressions by post, courier or email.
Santa Ana Lane (TAB), Classique Legend (Boniface Ho) and Pierata (Aquis Farm) are already confirmed for The Everest.
Hong Kong-based Ho secured the slot put up for auction by Greg Ingham’s GPI Racing which originally bought into the concept to run the now-retired Chautauqua in the race.
The other slot holders are: Chris Waller Racing, Coolmore, Damion Flower, Inglis, James Harron Bloodstock, Max Whitby and Neil Werrett, The Star and Yulong Investments.