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Everest runner-up Masked Crusader is already a firm favourite for the Classique Legend Stakes after his narrow defeat to Nature Strip in the A$15 million sprint. Masked Crusader and Eduardo could be joined by Lost And Running, Trekking, Libertini and Gytrash.
I was extremely gratified with Masked Crusader Everest run,” said Everest’s founding slot holder, Max Whitby.
“It was an easy decision for us to choose Masked Crusader (for the Everest), he is a fast horse and his programme leading into the Everest was spot on and we couldn’t have been more pleased with how he performed.
“It was 12 months in the planning and great for us as Slot holders as well as Owners. The other Slot holders have shares in Masked Crusader too.
“It was a heart-stopping run!” he said.
Team Hawkes are yet to publicly confirm whether Masked Crusader’s next start will be in the Classique Legend Stakes, while Joe Pride’s Eduardo, third in The Everest, also has a choice between staying in Sydney or targeting the Gr.1 VRC Sprint on the final day of the Melbourne Cup carnival.
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If both decide to stay at Rosehill and chase a A$750,000 winner’s bonus on top of the A$580,000 first prize money, it means up to six starters in The Everest could feature at Rosehill’s Golden Eagle meeting.
Australia’s era-defining entrepreneur has strongly supported the Everest concept since its initial launch. It was almost as if an Oracle had whispered in his ear, how the popularity of this race would soar.
“New South Wales Racing under the leadership of Peter V’landys has gone from strength to strength.
"So New South Wales is just moving aggressively away from the rest of the country without being too biased to make that statement.
“But we are all in this together. It's been a great experience.
“I have no regrets at all for being very early in the game.
“I can't believe it's already been five years and now, most importantly, with COVID, I hope we can be there live for the race,” he said recalling his experience as a slot holder over the last five years.