Brave Smash to run for ATC in Everest

Former Japanese horse Brave Smash will run for the Australian Turf Club in the $10 million Everest.

Former Japanese horse Brave Smash has secured the Australian Turf Club’s slot in the $10 million Everest.

Brave Smash, who is now trained by Darren Weir for Australian Bloodstock, finished second to Everest aspirant Vega Magic last month before winning the Listed McLeod Stakes at Moonee Valley.

ATC executive general manager, racing, James Heddo said the club was delighted to partner with Brave Smash who is currently an $11 chance in the Everest (1200m) at Randwick with Chautauqua the $5 favourtite.

“We have selected Brave Smash for several reasons and think he is an excellent fit for the ATC,” Heddo said.

“We have great confidence in Darren Weir’s judgment that the best of Brave Smash is yet to come, and the stable can now focus solely on one race and aim to peak on October 14 in The Everest.

“The ATC is committed to building the international profile of our carnivals and our racing, and to attract more overseas competitors to our racecourses, and Brave Smash offers a point of difference to The Everest with his international background and pedigree.”

AB director, Jamie Lovett said the owners were relieved and excited to secure a spot in the subscription only race.

“We were only notified late yesterday evening,” Lovett told Thoroughbred Weekly.

“It was a relief to get the call-up last night and we can concentrate on the race.

“Darren is keen to get another run into him before the race.

“He is leaning to the Rupert Clarke Stakes.”

The ATC had come up with a shortlist of five including Redzel who will run for James Harron Bloodstock.

The other three on the list still to gain a slot are Le Romain, Clearly Innocent and Global Glamour.