A formidable field of nine accomplished runners is set to grace the track this Saturday afternoon at Rosehill in Sydney, Australia, vying for top honours in the highly anticipated A$3 million Giga Kick Stakes.
This year's Everest victor, Think About It, emerges as the undisputed favourite, riding high on an impressive nine-race winning streak. Trained by Joseph Pride, the gelding's remarkable form has solidified his position as the short-priced favourite, a testament to his undeniable prowess on the track.
Jockey Sam Clipperton, who boasts an unblemished record aboard the five-year-old, is poised for another remarkable collaboration with Think About It, starting from the advantageous barrier three.
Stablemate Private Eye is identified as the primary contender, according to leading Australian betting platforms. The six-year-old, seeking to build upon his commendable third-place finish in the 2023 Everest, remains a formidable threat in the field.
Nash Rawiller, with a long-standing association with Private Eye, will guide the seasoned contender from barrier six, signaling a combination of experience and skill.
Mazu is the sole other contender with a notable Everest pedigree, although a previous setback during the campaign may pose a challenge.
Bella Nipotina demonstrated promise with a third-place finish in the Group 3 Sydney Stakes (1200m) on October 14, underscoring her potential for improvement in Saturday's showdown.
Adding a distinctive element to the field is Cascadian, a three-time Group 1 winner resuming from a 201-day spell. The seasoned campaigner brings a wealth of experience and skill to the competition, promising an intriguing dynamic.
The 2023 Giga Kick Stakes serves as the opening leg of the quaddie at Rosehill on Saturday, with a scheduled start time of 4pm AEDT.