Coolmore’s hope for the $14 million Everest, Ten Sovereigns, has been confirmed as a runner in the Group One Nunthorpe Stakes at York.
The winner of the July Cup, Ten Sovereigns is favourite over Battaash for the five-furlong (1000m) sprint on Friday (Saturday AEST).
The three-year-old was once thought of as a Classic contender but has emerged as a star since the Aidan O’Brien stable switched him to shorter distances.
Houtzen, who finished three-quarters of a length second to Battaash in the Group Two King George at Goodwood, is expected to be paid up for the Nunthorpe which was won by another Australian mare, Ortensia, in 2012.
The Charlie Hills-trained Battaash has finished fourth in the past two editions of the Nunthorpe.
Ten Sovereigns is at $26 with the Australian TAB for the Everest (1200m) at Randwick on October 19.
Coolmore is one of four slot holders yet to confirm its runner in the race.
Tom Magnier, boss of Coolmore Australia, said last month Ten Sovereigns was an Everest contender along with three-year-old Yes Yes Yes who is scheduled to have a second barrier trial this preparation at Rosehill on Tuesday.
