Peter Snowden is preparing Redzel for The Everest
Peter Snowden is expecting anything but a straightforward dash for cash by Australia’s premier sprinters in the $10 million Everest.
The trainer, who is preparing Redzel for the world’s richest race on turf with his son Paul, says tactics and luck in running will undoubtedly come into play during the 1200-metre showpiece at Randwick on Saturday.
“Even though it’s a sprint no horse is going to go out there and go as fast they can for as long they can,” Snowden said.
“There’s too many good markers in the race. The more pace you put on the more you play into their hands.
“It’s just going to be very tactical how you do it. If you get your maths right you can win it from the front.”
Snowden will be working with Kerrin McEvoy to ensure they formulate a winning strategy after Redzel came up with barrier four on Tuesday in the 12-horse race.
“Kerrin’s good with horses that race on the speed. He judges the pace probably better than anyone,” Snowden said.
“Our best chance is getting our maths right. If we get our sectionals right we’ll be very hard to beat.”
Redzel, a $7 chance with the TAB after the barrier draw, and Houtzen ($26) are expected to set the pace while three-time TJ Smith Stakes winner Chautauqua ($6) is renowned for his finishing flourish.
While that duo are highly rated, Snowden said any of Redzel’s 11 rivals was capable of claiming the $5.8 million winners’ cheque.
“There’s probably only three lengths between first and last in that class of horses,” he said.
Snowden said Redzel’s preparations had worked out perfectly since the gelding clocked an 1100m-track record to win The Shorts at Randwick on September 16.
“A month between runs, for him it’s an ideal preparation. We can’t fault him at this stage, everything’s gone to plan,” he said
“We go into the race with confidence, but we also need a fair touch of luck as well.”
