As anticipation mounts for The Everest, the Randwick track is set to witness a pivotal event this Saturday afternoon with the running of The Shorts (1100m) in Sydney, Australia.
A field of 12 contenders will vie for supremacy in this Group 2 clash, offering a tantalising glimpse into the forthcoming high-stakes spectacle.
Among the entrants stands Mazu, a horse already assured a coveted spot in The Everest on October 14, who is returning from a 124-day hiatus.
Top betting sites are keen to glean insights from the Group 3 Concorde Stakes (1000m), viewing it as a prime indicator for Saturday's showdown.
The James Cummings-trained In Secret emerges as the frontrunner at +220 odds, following a commendable second-place finish behind the formidable Remarque, who has garnered substantial early backing as well.
Buenos Noches is fresh off a spectacular triumph in the Group 3 Show County Quality (1200m), while Overpass commands attention after saluting in the inaugural edition of The Quokka (1200m) on April 15.
The return of Group 1 Robert Sangster Stakes (1200m) winner Ruthless Dame adds a compelling narrative to the race, and also making her mark as a four-year-old is Hawaii Five Oh.
Both mares exhibited fierce competitiveness in the Group 1 Stradbroke Handicap (1400m) at Eagle Farm on June 10, setting the stage for a showdown of immense calibre.
The Shorts, the second leg of the Randwick quaddie, is slated to commence at 4pm AEST, promising an enthralling prelude to the pinnacle of Australian racing, The Everest.