Bjorn Baker will saddle up his first Everest runner after Overpass was confirmed to represent the slot held by James Kennedy.
The last-start Shorts placegetter became the third horse announced as a contender this week, following on the heels of Golden Rose winner Jacquinot, who fills Coolmore’s slot, and former Hong Kong galloper Joyful Legend who runs for Aquis.
Baker is thrilled to be part of the $15 million sprint, which he says has become an iconic part of the Sydney spring carnival.
“It’s so important now. It’s the new generation and the atmosphere on the day is unbelievable and it’s amazing to be involved in a race like that,” Baker said.
“I still think he is on the rise and he’s improved every preparation.
“It’s going to be a magnificent day and it will be amazing to be involved.”
Overpass claimed the scalps of Forbidden Love and Anamoe to win the Group 2 Expressway Stakes (1200m) in the summer and has form around several of the leading Everest fancies.
He was runner-up to Lost And Running in the Southern Cross Stakes in February and fifth to Nature Strip in the T J Smith before resuming with a fighting second to the champion sprinter on a soft track in The Shorts (1100m).
Baker saw plenty of merit in Overpass’ latest effort when he drew an outside gate and the trainer has no doubt the horse’s best is still ahead.
“He had to do a little bit of work from the start but I thought he was strong on the line, 1200 (metres) will suit better and on top of the ground will be better for him,” Baker said.
“We’re going forward with a little bit of confidence.”
Overpass will have his final Everest lead-up in Saturday’s Premiere Stakes (1200m) at Randwick where his rivals include fellow Everest slot holders Lost And Running, Masked Crusader and Mazu.
Rachel King has been booked to ride him in both the Premiere Stakes and The Everest on October 15.
