Hawkesbury trainer Brad Widdup is set to saddle his first runner in The Everest after slot-holders Mulberry Racing confirmed Jedibeel would take their position in the $20 million showpiece.
Mulberry Racing made the call on Sunday morning, opting to press on with the gelding following his fourth-place finish in the Group 2 Premiere Stakes (1200m) at Randwick.
Strong late, Jedibeel closed to within a little over four lengths of fellow Everest-bound sprinters Briasa and Jimmysstar.
Widdup thought the run was “terrific” but was under no illusions about the challenge facing Jedibeel in The Everest.
“It is a tough decision because it’s a very, very good Everest this year and with what’s around and things like that, it made it very difficult but I thought he performed well on Saturday,” he said.
“If things go his way, he should be able to acquit himself well.
“We are very happy with him, he pulled up excellent.”
Jedibeel’s career highlight came earlier this year when he captured the Group 2 Challenge Stakes (1000m) at Randwick.
Rated a $51 outsider for The Everest, he will again be partnered by three-time Everest-winning jockey Kerrin McEvoy on October 18, with Ka Ying Rising holding favouritism with betting sites at $1.60.
