Giga Kick, the reigning The Everest champion, is gearing up for the Group 2 McEwen Stakes (1000m) on September 9, with an upcoming trial to fine-tune his readiness.
Trainer Clayton Douglas noted substantial development in Giga Kick’s size and strength, given his transition from a three-year-old.
“The development has been phenomenal,” Douglas told Racing.com.
“He’s now turned a four-year-old and he’s a lot bigger and stronger and, putting it into perspective, he’s a lot heavier and what he’s done as a three-year-old you’d only think he’s better as a four-year-old.”
In preparation for the McEwen Stakes, Giga Kick is set to undergo a return jumpout at Cranbourne, followed by a trial a few days prior to the main event.
Douglas’s systematic approach, involving a relaxed trial and a more rigorous hit-out, has shown effectiveness in past preparations.
The focus of Giga Kick’s spring season centres on The Everest, though uncertainties remain about his optimal race distance.
Despite this, Douglas expressed confidence in the horse’s abilities, particularly in third-up races.
Additionally, the prospect of international races post-spring is being considered, reflecting Giga Kick’s potential on a broader stage.
