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| Staff Writer |
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Randwick-based trainer Bjorn Baker is keeping the dream alive for a two-pronged attack on Australia's richest race, with Overpass still in contention for a coveted slot in the US$11.5 million Gr.1 The Everest.
The son of Vancouver hasn't been seen on the track since his triumphant defence of The Quokka in April, where he once again got the better of star mare Amelia's Jewel. Despite being out of the spotlight, Baker is confident Overpass's exceptional fresh form could see him earn a berth in the 1200-metre sprint spectacular.
"If he made The Everest, we'd be delighted to go in," Baker said. "I think we've got some unfinished business."
Baker's optimism stems from Overpass's remarkable record when resuming, having twice lowered the colours of Amelia's Jewel in Perth's The Quokka. The trainer believes his charge is in career-best form, stating, "He is extremely good fresh and I think you can argue he's going better than ever."
Overpass's preparation stepped up a gear with an exhibition gallop at Warwick Farm on Wednesday. Regular pilot Josh Parr was aboard for the hitout, with Baker indicating another trial is on the cards before the horse's return.
"From what we've seen at home, he is probably slightly ahead of where he needs to be," Baker revealed. "We will probably give him another trial on the fourth (of October) and possibly another race day experience two weeks before (his return), which tends to work pretty well for him."
The 6YO entire finished tenth in last year's The Everest after securing his spot with a runner-up effort in the Gr.2 The Shorts. Baker is convinced we'll see a different horse this time around, should he gain a start.
"His form is as consistent as any sprinter in Australia, with the one exception being last year's Everest," Baker asserted. "He has been very lightly raced and I think that has held him in good stead. He's six, you can argue he's still getting to his best."
The Everest, inaugurated in 2017, has quickly established itself as one of the world's most prestigious sprint races. Previous winners include Redzel (2017, 2018), Yes Yes Yes (2019), Classique Legend (2020), Nature Strip (2021), and Giga Kick (2022). Many of these sprinters went on to achieve further Group One success, cementing The Everest's status as a kingmaker in Australian racing.
Should Overpass fail to secure an Everest slot, he's set to resume in the Sydney Stakes on the same day, October 19. Meanwhile, Baker already has one hoof in the race with Stefi Magnetica, who was selected earlier this week to represent the Newgate and GPI Racing slot following her eye-catching second to I Am Me in The Shorts.
The Everest intensifies with Baker's stable buzzing with anticipation. With Stefi Magnetica locked in and Overpass knocking on the door, the Warwick Farm conditioner could be set for a memorable spring carnival.