Godolphin is yet to confirm a horse for its Everest slot but leading contender Bivouac remains in the box seat after a classy showing at the barrier trials.
Suspended jockey Hugh Bowman made the trip to Hawkesbury on Monday to partner Bivouac in the 800 metre heat and the four-year-old breezed around the course to win under his own steam.
Trainer James Cummings said the Group One Golden Rose and Newmarket Handicap winner had returned in superb order and had been pencilled in to resume in The Shorts (1100m) at Randwick on September 19.
“We haven’t made any firm plans but we do like the look of The Shorts,” Cummings said.
When asked if Bivouac was the top contender to fill Godolphin’s Everest slot, Cummings replied, “I think that’s fair”.
Everest favourite Nature Strip will continue his spring build-up when he steps out in a trial at his home track.
The brilliant sprinter is among a host of luminaries at Tuesday’s Rosehill session as Sydney’s best horses continue to ramp up their preparations.
A four-time Group One winner, Nature Strip is one of three confirmed slot holders for the Everest and coasted to the line to win his first trial earlier this month.
He will have nine rivals in his 900m heat including stablemates Hungry Heart and Kinane who are both expected to feature prominently this spring.
Caulfield Cup favourite Master Of Wine, Australian Derby runner-up Zebrowski and smart sprinter Standout are among the other notable horses set to make trial appearances at Rosehill.