The field for the 2020 Everest had all but been finalised before a late decision by connections of Farnan to withdraw the horse meant a slot has opened.
The last slot in The Everest was thought to have been decided this morning when Chris Waller announced he had sold his spot in the race to owner/breeder Three Bridges Thoroughbreds who will run Haut Brion Her in the $15m event but that is not the case with Gai Waterhouse announcing this afternoon that Farnan will not run.
Gai Waterhouse made the announcement on twitter this afternoon that majority owners of Farnan, Kia Ora Stud and the owners of The Everest slot Aquis Farm have agreed to withdraw the horse from running in the race.
The Golden Slipper winner underwent a veterinary examination on Monday and was passed fit to start but his connections have decided to save him for the Coolmore Stud Stakes at Flemington.
The colt was to have contested the Roman Consul Stakes at Randwick last Saturday but was ruled out with a bruised foot.
Aquis Farm have since announced that Tony and Calvin McEvoy trained Dollar For Dollar will run under their slot in the race.
“After careful consultation the major shareholders, Kia Ora Stud, as well as part owners and Everest slot holders, Aquis Farm, it has been decided that Farnan will no take his place in the 2020 TAB Everest.”
“The colt unfortunately missed a significant lead up race to the event, and all parties involved feel it is in his best interest to instead target the Group 1 Coolmore Stud Stakes.”
“Farnan is in good health, and he will trial publicly this weekend prior to traveling to Melbourne.” the statement read.
Farnan was a $17 chance in Everest betting with Sportsbet prior to the announcement.
Market 💰: View the Odds for the Everest