Victorian sprinting sensation I Wish I Win has secured a coveted slot in the highly anticipated $20m The Everest.
Trackside Media extended the invitation to I Wish I Win’s connections, having acquired the slot from Inglis.
The achievement was made possible with the assistance of Entain, who played a pivotal role in helping Trackside Media secure Inglis’ slot.
Trained by Peter Moody, I Wish I Win is expected to make his comeback at the Group 2 McEwen Stakes, set to take place at The Valley in early September.
The Everest 2023 is seeing a strong representation from Victorian horses, with Clayton Douglas-trained Giga Kick currently holding the position of race favorite.
The McEwen Stakes could witness an electrifying clash between the country’s two premier sprinters, as both I Wish I Win and Giga Kick are likely to face off.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Moody stated, “It is the first time I’ve had a horse good enough to have a crack at The Everest, and I’m delighted to have secured a slot this far out.”
“It will allow us to really tailor his preparation down to the minute.”
Waikato Stud, partnering with I Wish I Win, echoed Moody’s sentiments, with Mark Chittick expressing excitement at the opportunity to race in a slot controlled by New Zealanders.
Marking a significant moment, Entain New Zealand’s Managing Director, Cameron Rodger, emphasized that securing a slot in The Everest on behalf of Trackside was a cause for celebration for the New Zealand thoroughbred racing and breeding industries.
Rodger further highlighted the resurgence of the industry, stating, “New Zealand has a very proud racing heritage, but for a number of years, the industry has been underfunded and losing ground. As we have seen with the recent increases in stakes money, as a result of the new strategic agreement with Entain, we are ready to kick back in a big way.”
With I Wish I Win’s inclusion in the prestigious race, the anticipation and excitement surrounding The Everest continue to grow.