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| Staff Writer |
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As Storm Boy prepares for his assault on the A$20 million Gr.1 The Everest, co-trainer Adrian Bott stands on the precipice of racing history. For the quiet achiever of Australian racing, victory would not only mean a substantial payday but also the remarkable distinction of becoming the first trainer to win the Group One sprint having two horses in the race. Bott also readies Lady of Camelot, who recently showcased her impressive talent with a key win in the Golden Slipper.
Bott's ambitions for Storm Boy extend beyond the Spring Carnival. Royal Ascot looms as a potential target for 2025, though the trainer remains characteristically measured in his approach.
"He would certainly have to continue to do everything right in Australia, first and foremost, this preparation," Bott cautions. "There's still a possibility that he could be seen in the Gr. 1 Coolmore Stud Stakes down the straight in Melbourne on Derby Day."
The trainer's ability to balance ambition with horse welfare is evident in his methodology. "First, it's about having a very good understanding of what your horse is capable of doing and the level of workload and races that it's able to handle, and then also getting a good gauge on the horse's level of ability and where best to place that horse," Bott explains.
This meticulous approach has been crucial in Storm Boy's development. From his early days as a precocious two-year-old to his current status as a potential Gr.1 Everest champion, every step has been carefully planned and executed.
Lady of Camelot has officially earned her spot in the lineup for the 2024 Gr. 1 The Everest. Owner Sir Owen Glenn has partnered with James Harron Bloodstock to secure a position for her, amplifying excitement around this talented filly who recently clinched victory in the Golden Slipper. This strategic move not only ensures her participation but also offers benefits to their partners, depending on her performance.
With this confirmation, the Waterhouse & Bott stable showcases its stronghold in the upcoming newly minted Gr.1 Everest, now featuring both Lady of Camelot and Storm Boy. The addition of this dynamic duo heightens the anticipation for the race, illuminating the barn's prowess and strategic vision in Australian racing events. Transitioning from her Golden Slipper win to a prestigious Gr.1 Everest contender marks yet another thrilling milestone in Lady of Camelot’s journey, while Storm Boy, as a burgeoning talent, is set to leave a significant mark on one of the world's most acclaimed races.
Storm Boy's recent dominant victory in the Gr.3 San Domenico Stakes at Rosehill marked more than a successful return - it was a resurrection. The Justify colt had swept all before him through his early two-year-old season, culminating in an emphatic victory in the US$2 million Magic Millions 2YO Classic. This early success prompted Coolmore to swoop in, taking control of Storm Boy in a mega deal that made him one of the most talked-about two-year-olds in modern Australian racing history.
However, the fairytale story faced unexpected hurdles. A third-place finish in the Golden Slipper as one of the shortest-priced favourites in the race's history, followed by a fourth in the Sires' Produce Stakes on heavy ground, led some to question whether the early promise would be fulfilled.
"It's amazing to be able to talk about a horse that has the potential to do that," Bott says, reflecting on Storm Boy's versatility. "He really could go either way and be very effective as well."
But Bott never wavered in his faith. After a well-deserved spell and two impressive barrier trial wins, Storm Boy returned to a 'Good 4' surface at Rosehill and silenced the doubters. Despite having to be bustled from Gate 1, he assumed the lead and dominated his rivals, showcasing the brilliance that had made him such a sensation earlier in his career.
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Storm Boy's recent victory has amplified international interest in his Everest bid. Bred by Morning Rise Stud’s Robert McClure and purchased originally for A$460,000 by Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott Racing and Kestrel Thoroughbreds at the Magic Millions Sale, the colt now represents a partnership that spans continents.
"Obviously, there's a large international investment group involved with Storm Boy - connections from England, Ireland, and America and all over the world," Bott explains. "I'd say there'll be a large contingent of people locally based that'll be here to hopefully represent the team on the Everest day."
The global nature of Storm Boy's ownership reflects the increasing international recognition of the headline race of the Everest Spring Carnival. As Bott notes, "The Everest has become such an internationally recognised and renowned race that it's certainly an important fixture for us. I think the race certainly deserves Group One status when you look at the form and quality of horses it attracts each year. Having that Group One status now allows it to be recognised that way."
While Bott will be in Sydney for The Gr.1 Everest, Waterhouse will be in Melbourne for the Caulfield Cup, showcasing the stable's strength in depth and strategic positioning across Australia's major racing jurisdictions. This approach has been key to the Waterhouse-Bott partnership, equalling their best-ever season with 165 wins and over US$20 million in prizemoney.
Storm Boy's success has been a cornerstone of this achievement, and his journey exemplifies the stable's ability to manage top-class horses through both triumphs and setbacks.
"It's very good going in off the back of a successful season. It's good to have momentum and confidence behind everyone in the stable," Bott reflects.
Storm Boy's journey is more than just a story of racing success - it's a testament to the art of breeding. The son of Justify is the first of three foals out of Pelican, a dual-city winner from nine starts. His pedigree suggested early speed, but his temperament and trainability have allowed him to overcome setbacks and return stronger than ever.
"That profile and that type of two-year-old speed colt prospect is certainly a profile that we continue to try and target year in, year out," Bott explains, highlighting the qualities that drew him to Storm Boy at the sales.
Storm Boy's impact extends beyond his racing performances. As a son of Justify, his success has been a powerful advertisement for his sire, who finished third on last term's second-season and two-year-old sires' tables in Australia. His eventual stud value could be astronomical, particularly if he can add The Gr.1 Everest to his already impressive resume.
As Bott continues to ready Lady Of Camelot and Storm Boy for the big day, the racing world watches with anticipation, but true to form, Bott remains focused solely on the task at hand.
"I'm not one to make special plans or preparations before a big event. I'm more focused on trying to achieve it and then allowing everything to fall into place if we are fortunate enough to make it all work," he emphasises.
For in racing, as in life, it's often the quiet achievers who make the loudest statements. And with Storm Boy and Lady Of Camelot, Adrian Bott might just be about to roar.