Ka Ying Rising narrowly beaten by Ninja in Everest lead-up trial
Ninja clocked 59.46s at Royal Randwick, while Ka Ying Rising’s trainer and jockey said the narrow defeat did not concern them.
Ninja edged out Hong Kong sprinter Ka Ying Rising in a 1,000m Royal Randwick barrier trial before The Everest. Trainer David Hayes and jockey Zac Purton remained untroubled by Ka Ying Rising’s performance despite finding fault with the soft conditions.
After moving quickly into the lead, Ka Ying Rising was held back by Purton for much of the contest. Tommy Berry brought Ninja alongside in the straight before taking a narrow advantage approaching the finish, stopping the clock at 59.46s.
Hayes attributed part of the defeat to the soft 7 rating and longer grass on the outer section of the course. He said Ka Ying Rising had produced better trials, but regarded this effort as satisfactory and noted the horse had not changed legs in the straight.
Purton said Ka Ying Rising needed the exercise after thriving at Canterbury’s quarantine and training facility. The jockey said the horse was breathing more heavily afterwards than after his recent race and reiterated that he preferred a firm racing surface.
Everest contenders Joliestar, Headwall and Angel Capital followed close behind the placegetters. Ka Ying Rising’s previous Randwick trial also ended in defeat: he finished third behind Overpass last year before winning The Everest at his following start.
