ATC to scrutinise Everest candidates

Competition for the Australian Turf Club’s slot in The Everest is fierce with half the expressions of interest coming from overseas.

The ATC bought a slot in the $10 million subscription race to be run on October 14 and put it up for tender.

Applications closed on Friday with the ATC’s James Ross saying the successful bidder would not be known until later this month as the club studied more than 20 proposals.

“We have been overwhelmed by the interest both here and overseas,” Ross said.

“There has been interest from Japan among other countries.”

The ATC and Racing NSW are expected to announce the finalised spring program leading up to The Everest (1200m) this week.

The Warwick Stakes which will feature the return of champion Winx, is locked into August 19 but the program from September onwards has not been announced.

The Everest race day is expected to feature a consolation sprint called the Lightning with the Craven Plate also slated to be on the program with increased prize money.

High profile owner Damion Flower has also bought an Everest slot which has yet to be allocated while Fell Swoop will represent Willliam Inglis and Son.

Chautauqua, three times a TJ Smith Stakes winner at Randwick over 1200 metres, is the $4.60 favourite ahead of Coolmore’s Caravaggio and Golden Slipper winner She Will Reign who will run for Yulong Investments both at $8.