Sydney’s star mare Autumn Glow is attracting strong interest from slot-holders for the $20 million Group 1 The Everest (1200m) at Royal Randwick in the spring.
Owner John Messara confirmed multiple approaches have been made by Everest slot-holders keen to secure the services of Autumn Glow for the world’s richest turf race.
While Messara declined to reveal which parties are involved, citing the confidential nature of early discussions, he indicated there is no urgency to lock in the mare’s spring program.
“Autumn Glow is going to have a good spell over winter and then we can start looking at next season,” Messara said.
“There is plenty of time before we have to lock in a spring program. We will let the dust settle for now and then as we get closer to the spring I will sit down with Chris and consider at all our options.”
With the Sydney autumn carnival now complete, it is unusual that no sprinter has yet been confirmed for The Everest, which is scheduled for October 17 at Randwick.
Hong Kong champion Ka Ying Rising is expected to be selected by slot-holder the Hong Kong Jockey Club, although an official announcement is unlikely before August.
This leaves 11 slots still available, with many slot-holders expected to delay their decisions until the early stages of the new season.
Autumn Glow’s credentials make her one of the most sought-after contenders, having won her first 11 starts, including Group 1 victories in the Epsom Handicap, Verry Elleegant Stakes and George Ryder Stakes, along with success in the Golden Eagle.
Her unbeaten streak came to an end when she finished third to Sir Delius in the Group 1 Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2000m).
Trainer Chris Waller said the decision to step her up in distance was deliberate.
“If we had not gone to 2000m she would still be winning,” Waller said.
“We needed to know where the ceiling was and unfortunately for the horse we found it.
“But she will come back in the spring and be our trump card. She is a star and people forget once you start winning again.”
Connections are unlikely to push her beyond a mile again in the near future, with races between 1400m and 1600m appearing her ideal range.
If targeted toward The Everest, Autumn Glow would likely have only one lead-up run to maintain her sprint sharpness. Alternatively, the Group 1 King Charles III Stakes (1600m) on the same program offers another suitable option, allowing for a more traditional preparation with multiple weight-for-age lead-ups.
Early betting markets have Autumn Glow at $6 for The Everest, behind Ka Ying Rising at $1.50, with Tempted at $8 and Tentryis, Jimmysstar and Joliestar all quoted at $11.
For those looking to bet on The Everest and upcoming spring features, you can compare leading betting sites to find suitable options.
