Ka Ying Rising on track after Randwick trial

New Zealand-bred sprinting sensation Ka Ying Rising (NZ) (Shamexpress) pleased connections with his final serious hit-out ahead of the A$20 million Gr.1 The Everest (1200m) at Randwick on October 17.

The son of Shamexpress finished second in a 1000m trial at Randwick on Tuesday morning, edged out late by Gr.2 Missile Stakes (1200m) winner Ninja on a Soft 7 surface.

With regular rider Zac Purton aboard, Ka Ying Rising began cleanly and rolled forward to lead, travelling comfortably before Ninja moved alongside late.

The trial was completed in 59.46 seconds and trainer David Hayes was pleased with what he saw, particularly given the six-year-old's preference for firmer footing.

“He got into a nice rhythm and had a really good look around as he did last year,” Hayes said.

“I think the longer grass and the softer surface was not ideal.

“I was happier this year than last year.”

There was a familiar feel to the performance, with Ka Ying Rising also beaten in his final trial before last year's Everest.

On that occasion, he finished third before returning to Randwick less than two weeks later and producing a dominant performance in The Everest.

Ka Ying Rising will head into this year's edition riding a remarkable 21-race winning streak and is a dominant $1.30 favourite to successfully defend his crown.

Purton was similarly satisfied with Tuesday's hit-out and believes the softer conditions were responsible for Ka Ying Rising not showing his customary brilliance.

“He got through it OK and there was a bit more there, but he certainly appreciates it when it’s a hard deck,” Purton said.

“I think he’s just feeling the ground for where he’s at.

“I think he handled himself better in the trial this morning. He got around with a little bit more purpose. I liked when the other horse came to him and he wanted to fight.”

The prospect of rain in Sydney leading into The Everest will be closely watched, with Ka Ying Rising having had limited exposure to rain-affected tracks during his 24-start career.

The New Zealand-bred son of Windsor Park Stud stallion Shamexpress arrived in Australia as the world's highest-rated racehorse following another extraordinary performance in Hong Kong.

Ka Ying Rising clocked 1:06.11 for 1200m at his most recent start at Sha Tin, a performance which earned him an international rating of 135 and reinforced his standing as the world's premier sprinter.

Tuesday's trial completes another important step in his preparation, with Hayes confident his stable star is where he needs to be as he closes in on his Everest defence.