 |
|
| Staff Writer |
 |
In the high-stakes world of Australian racing, few events capture the imagination quite like The Gr.1 Everest. This year, all eyes are on trainer Annabel Neasham and her star mare, Sunshine In Paris, as they prepare to take on the world's richest turf race. After a disappointing setback last year, Neasham's resilience and expertise have guided Sunshine In Paris back to peak form, securing a coveted slot in the 2024 Gr.1 Everest. In an exclusive interview with Everest Diaries magazine, Neasham shares her journey from the fields of Northamptonshire to the pinnacle of Australian racing and her strategy for the Everest glory.
Compared to the uncertainty you faced last year, how does it feel to have Sunshine In Paris already secured for The Gr.1 Everest this year?
It feels fantastic to have Sunshine In Paris secured for The Gr.1 Everest this year. With her owner holding a slot and knowing that she has come back to this preparation in great order, we’re really looking forward to getting her to Randwick – the whole stable will be cheering her on!
Can you walk us through your preparation strategy for Sunshine In Paris leading up to The Gr.1 Everest?
This spring, Sunshine In Paris’ preparation is centered on keeping her fresh, as she has a solid track record when resuming first up. We’re also focusing on her recovery by taking her to the beach, which helps keep her mind fresh.
What lessons did you learn from last year's setback with Sunshine In Paris that you're applying to this year's The Gr.1 Everest campaign?
Last year’s setback with Sunshine In Paris was very disappointing for the stable. However, she has come back even better with this preparation. We have a great team of staff who make sure she is in optimal condition leading into The Gr.1 Everest.
How do you assess Sunshine In Paris's recent Sheraco Stakes win, and what does it indicate about her form heading into The Gr.1 Everest?
Her win in the Sheraco Stakes was very impressive, and while we expected her to run well and be competitive, we didn’t expect her to necessarily win that arrogantly, given that she looked like she still had plenty of improvement to come in her coat. The form around her defeating Joliestar and a competitive field of fillies and mares gives us a lot of confidence leading into the race.
What unique qualities do you think Sunshine In Paris brings to The Gr.1 Everest field this year?
Sunshine In Paris brings plenty of quality to The Gr.1 Everest field. While she performs best on a good track, she is versatile on most grounds and has an electric turn of foot and will to win, especially when coming into a race fresh.
How do you plan to use the five-week gap between the Sheraco Stakes and The Gr.1 Everest to fine-tune Sunshine In Paris's preparation?
It was always the plan to have five weeks between the Sheraco Stakes and The Gr.1 Everest for Sunshine In Paris. Her record when she runs fresh is excellent, so we want to keep her fresh leading into The Gr.1 Everest. She will do an exhibition gallop or a trial in the lead-up to ensure she is ready to go.
Reflecting on your journey from the UK to Australia, how has your background in eventing, showjumping, and hunting influenced your training methods?
My background in eventing, showjumping, and hunting has given me a diverse skill set that has allowed me to be versatile in understanding the behaviours of different horses.
 |  |
Your victory in the Mongol Derby is fascinating. How has that experience shaped your approach to training and your understanding of horses?
Winning the Mongol Derby in 2018 alongside Adrian Corby was fascinating. It was a tough 1,000km race through challenging terrain, which taught me the importance of adaptability and building strong bonds with my horse. This experience has shaped my training approach, reinforcing that every horse is unique and that understanding their needs is crucial for helping them reach their full potential.
Can you share some insights into your transition from managing Ciaron Maher's Sydney stable to establishing your own training career?
Transitioning from Ciaron Maher's Sydney stable to going out and training on my own has been a great journey. It was a fantastic learning experience. I gained plenty of knowledge working alongside a talented team at Ciarons and, before that, with Gai Waterhouse. I have been fortunate enough to have taken these insights and applied them to my own stable.
As someone who's both ridden in and trained for major races, how do you think this dual perspective benefits your approach to The Gr.1 Everest?
My experience training and working for various trainers has given me a wide perspective leading into major races. Before going off on my own, I helped establish and run Ciaron’s Sydney stable, working closely with exceptional racehorses such as Dubious, Prague, and Away Game. Given this opportunity, I have been fortunate to recognise the importance of strategies that come with preparing horses for major race days.
Your partnership with Rob Archibald is relatively new. How has this collaboration enhanced your training program, especially for top-tier events like The Gr.1 Everest?
My partnership with Rob has been fantastic for the stable, not only for the horses but also for our owners and staff. His transition into the role of Co-Trainer was smooth, having been very hands-on as the Racing Manager. He has given us fresh insights and allowed the stable to fine-tune our strategies across all business areas.
Having worked with Group One winners early in your career, what key lessons have you carried forward into your own stable's management?
Working with Group One winners early on taught me the importance of attention to detail and building strong relationships with both horses and staff. Understanding each horse individually, tailoring their training and recognising their unique quirks has been crucial to the stable’s success.
Looking at your diverse international experience, how do you think Australian racing, particularly The Gr.1 Everest, compares to racing scenes in other countries you've been involved with?
The Gr.1 Everest is a race like no other; the dynamic atmosphere and prize money sets it apart from most races in the world. The excitement and passion from the crowd make it an experience like no other. While every country has their own highlight races on the calendar, the way everyone gets behind The Gr.1 Everest makes it a highlight day on the calendar.
As the countdown to The Gr.1 Everest begins, Annabel Neasham's quiet confidence is palpable. With Sunshine In Paris primed and ready, the stage is set for what could be a career-defining moment for both horse and trainer. Neasham's journey from the grueling Mongol Derby to the glitz of Randwick showcases a remarkable blend of horsemanship, strategic acumen, and unwavering determination. As she puts the finishing touches on her Everest contender, one thing is clear: whether Sunshine In Paris crosses the line first or not, Annabel Neasham has already proven herself a force to be reckoned with in the world of racing. The racing community waits with bated breath to see if Sunshine In Paris can turn her Sheraco Stakes brilliance into Everest triumph, potentially etching her name among the legends of Australian racing.