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| Staff Writer |
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Bjorn Baker's rising star Stefi Magnetica has clinched a coveted slot in this year's The Everest, following a scintillating runner-up performance in last Saturday's Gr.2 ATC The Shorts. The 4YO daughter of All Too Hard caught the eye of last year's winning slot holders, Newgate and GPI Racing, who moved swiftly to secure the Gr.1 Stradbroke Handicap heroine for the US$15 million sprint spectacular.
Stefi Magnetica's electrifying turn of foot in The Shorts left seasoned observers in no doubt about her Everest credentials. The mare unleashed a devastating burst in the closing stages, falling just short of victory but emphatically announcing her arrival on the big stage.
Baker, renowned for his meticulous preparation, is likely to adopt a 'less is more' approach with his stable star. The Warwick Farm-based conditioner hinted at a direct path to The Everest, with Stefi Magnetica expected to arrive at Royal Randwick on the fresh side. A carefully timed barrier trial is on the cards to keep the mare primed for her assault on Australia's richest race.
Stefi Magnetica's rise to prominence has been nothing short of meteoric. Her triumph in the Gr.1 Stradbroke Handicap at Eagle Farm in June showcased her ability to compete at the highest level. That victory, coupled with her recent performance in The Shorts, has convinced connections that she is ready to mix it with the sport's elite sprinters.
The Everest, now in its seventh year, has quickly established itself as the pinnacle of Australian sprinting. Previous winners read like a who's who of turf luminaries, with Redzel claiming the inaugural running in 2017 and successfully defending his crown in 2018. Nature Strip's 2021 victory was followed by a Royal Ascot triumph in the King's Stand Stakes, while last year saw the Chris Waller-trained Giga Kick storm to glory.
Speaking from his Warwick Farm base, Baker outlined his strategy for Everest glory: "Stefi Magnetica has come through The Shorts in excellent order. She's thriving and the team at home couldn't be happier with her. We'll keep her ticking over with a trial, but the plan is to have her peaking on Everest day."
The trainer added, "To have a runner in The Everest is every trainer's dream. With a mare of Stefi's quality, we're not just making up the numbers – we're going there with a genuine chance."
Newgate and GPI Racing's decision to snap up Stefi Magnetica underscores the mare's burgeoning reputation. Their success with last year's winner has only sharpened their eye for talent, and in Stefi Magnetica, they believe they've found a worthy successor to carry their hopes.
Henry Field, managing director of Newgate, expressed his enthusiasm: "Stefi Magnetica ticks all the boxes. She's a Group One winner with a devastating turn of foot, and she's coming to hand at exactly the right time. We couldn't be more excited to have her flying our flag in The Everest."
As the countdown to The Everest intensifies, all eyes will be on Stefi Magnetica. With a blend of raw speed and Group One-winning class, Baker's mare is poised to scale racing's Everest and etch her name alongside the giants of the turf.