Chris Waller will look to end Ka Ying Rising’s remarkable 21-race winning streak when Australia’s leading sprinters line up for the AU$20 million G1 The Everest at Randwick Racecourse in Sydney on Saturday, 17 October. However, despite an unfavourable barrier draw and the prospect of rain-affected ground, the champion trainer believes the Hong Kong star remains the horse everyone must beat.
Waller will rely on Joliestar and Angel Capital to lead the Australian challenge in the 1,200-metre contest. Joliestar, Australia’s champion sprinter, will return to Group 1 competition, while Angel Capital arrives in strong form after winning the G1 Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes over 1,400 metres at Caulfield. Ka Ying Rising will start from barrier 11 in the 12-horse field.
Ka Ying Rising Remains the Horse to Beat in The Everest
Randwick’s track was downgraded from Good to Heavy on Wednesday morning, 14 October, following 66mm of rain the previous day. The conditions have added another dimension to the build-up, although Waller remains confident that the meeting will provide a fair test for the runners.
Waller acknowledged the challenge posed by Ka Ying Rising, describing the international star as a horse capable of overcoming difficult circumstances.
The trainer also welcomed the Hong Kong sprinter’s participation, saying the presence of leading international horses strengthens Australian racing and gives local contenders an opportunity to test themselves against the best.
Although Waller hopes one of his runners can claim victory, he recognises the scale of the task. He also expects conditions to improve before Saturday, with the prospect of a forgiving surface rather than firm ground offering a suitable test for the field.
Joliestar Returns to Group 1 Competition
Joliestar will leave from barrier five under James McDonald, who has partnered the mare through some of the biggest assignments of her career. Her latest international campaign included a third-place finish behind Almeraq and Satono Reve in the G1 Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes over 1,200 metres at Royal Ascot in England in June.
Waller believes Joliestar is approaching the race in excellent condition. Her encouraging first-up performance has strengthened confidence that she can produce her best when it matters, while the favourable draw gives McDonald options in the early stages.
Joliestar finished fifth in last year’s Everest, and the stable will be hoping for a more rewarding outcome this time. With McDonald familiar with the sprinter’s racing style, the combination will be looking to make the most of another opportunity at Randwick.
Angel Capital Looks for a Stronger Everest Performance
Angel Capital will start from barrier two with Ben Melham aboard. The sprinter finished sixth in the 2025 edition but has since strengthened his credentials with a Group 1 victory in the Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes.
Waller believes Angel Capital is in career-best form and expects the race to suit his strengths, particularly if the pace is strong from the outset.
The trainer noted that Angel Capital performs best when the pressure remains high throughout the contest. A fast-run 1,200 metres could allow the powerful sprinter to settle into a rhythm before making his challenge in the closing stages.
The inside draw could also prove valuable, particularly with several prominent contenders starting from wider barriers. Waller expects those runners to move across early in search of positions, potentially creating a demanding opening phase.
For Angel Capital, an even tempo and a sustained test of stamina could provide the ideal conditions to improve on last year’s performance.
A Major Test Awaits at Randwick
With Ka Ying Rising chasing a 22nd consecutive victory and Waller preparing two leading Australian challengers, The Everest promises a compelling clash between local and international sprinting talent.
The barrier draw, changing track conditions and expected early pace will all influence how the race unfolds. Ka Ying Rising’s outstanding record makes the Hong Kong star the benchmark, but Joliestar and Angel Capital give Waller two credible opportunities to challenge the favourite.
The Everest will be run at 1.15pm Hong Kong time on Saturday, 17 October, at Randwick Racecourse in Sydney.
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