‘It's very exciting': TJ Smith winner Briasa books Everest slot
Briasa became the second horse into the $20 million The Everest (1200m) after the Hawkes training team announced on Saturday that the four-year-old had secured the slot held by Max Whitby, Steve McCann, Colin Madden and Neil Werrett.
Nathan Doyle's unbeaten colt Private Harry was the first into the October 18 race at Randwick last month when Kurrinda Bloodstock struck a part-ownership deal with slot-holders Yulong Investments after winning the group 1 The Galaxy (1100m) on March 22.
Briasa, a homebred son of Smart Missile for Ian and Anthony Johnson, pressed his claims for a spot when taking out the $3 million TJ Smith Stakes (1200m) on April 5 at Randwick for John, Michael and Wayne Hawkes.
He was an $8 Sportsbet chance for the richest race on turf behind Hong Kong star Ka Ying Rising ($2) and Private Harry ($7). Regular jockey Tyler Schiller was thrilled to hear the news between races at Gosford.
'It's very exciting,' Schiller said. 'We were hoping [for a slot], because he's a very good, up-and-coming sprinter and on what he did last prep, he showed he's a group 1 sprinter.
'Weight for age should be fine. He's a big boy and hopefully a little spell just does him well. Really pleased with him and very happy to hear.'
Big Dance plans
Trainer Adrian Bott said Les Vampires was likely headed to the paddock before a preparation aimed at the $3 million Big Dance (1600m) in November after stamping his ticket with a commanding win in the Gosford Gold Cup (2100m) on Monday.
A $2.90 favourite, Les Vampires led the $300,000 listed race under Winona Costin and was challenged approaching the home turn, only to kick clear late and win by one-and-a-third lengths from Etna Rosso.
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