Tempted Ends Ka Ying Rising's Dominant Win Streak in The Everest
In a stunning upset at Randwick Racecourse, the horse Tempted claimed victory in the prestigious Group 1 The Everest, bringing an end to Ka Ying Rising's remarkable 21-race undefeated run. Trainer David Hayes expressed disappointment over the unfavorable starting position, which he believes hindered Ka Ying Rising’s performance. However, jockey Chad Schofield’s strategic decision to alter Tempted's usual racing style proved decisive, securing a significant win. While the defeat marked a setback for Ka Ying Rising, the race also boosted his career earnings, elevating him to an impressive second place among Hong Kong’s top-earning horses.
The race unfolded with Ka Ying Rising facing challenges from the outset due to a wide barrier draw, leaving him vulnerable and struggling to find optimal positioning. In contrast, Tempted, benefiting from a prime inside post, navigated the track with greater ease. Despite Ka Ying Rising’s valiant late surge, he ultimately fell short by a narrow margin. The outcome underscored the critical impact of starting positions and race-day tactics on even the most dominant competitors. Looking ahead, Ka Ying Rising's team remains optimistic about future competitions, including upcoming races in Hong Kong.
The Everest Upset: Tempted Halts Ka Ying Rising's Unbeaten Run
In a dramatic turn of events at Randwick Racecourse, Tempted triumphed in The Everest, concluding Ka Ying Rising's extraordinary 21-race winning streak. Trainer David Hayes pinpointed a difficult barrier draw as a key factor in Ka Ying Rising's defeat, noting that his horse was forced wide and struggled to maintain a competitive position throughout the race. Despite a powerful late surge, Ka Ying Rising couldn't quite catch Tempted, who had a clearer path from an inside gate. This victory marked a significant reversal from the previous year, where Ka Ying Rising had bested Tempted. Jockey Chad Schofield, riding Tempted, executed a bold tactical shift, pushing his horse to the front earlier than usual, a decision that ultimately paid off handsomely.
The Group 1, US$13.9 million The Everest witnessed a gripping contest where starting positions played a crucial role. Ka Ying Rising, breaking from post 11, found himself disadvantaged, enduring a wide trip without cover, which forced him to expend more energy. Conversely, Tempted, under the guidance of Chad Schofield from barrier one, enjoyed an unhindered run, allowing her to conserve energy and launch a decisive attack. Schofield's unconventional strategy of pressing forward early, rather than her usual hold-up style, surprised many and proved to be the winning move. The race, which saw Joliestar finish third, highlighted the unpredictable nature of elite horse racing and the strategic brilliance required to secure victory in such high-stakes competitions. Despite the loss, Ka Ying Rising's impressive career earnings, now at US$22.5 million, reflect his sustained excellence and place him among the highest-earning horses in Hong Kong's history, second only to the retired Romantic Warrior.
Strategic Masterclass and Future Prospects
Jockey Chad Schofield's unconventional strategy on Tempted, pushing the mare forward from the start—a departure from her typical racing style—was a masterclass in tactical riding that ultimately secured her victory in The Everest. Schofield later explained that his focus was squarely on Ka Ying Rising, and by deliberately keeping the champion horse wide, he created a clear path for Tempted to exploit. This calculated move allowed Tempted to enjoy a trouble-free run and hit the front early, showcasing her bravery and determination to hold off Ka Ying Rising's powerful closing burst. This strategic play not only secured the win but also demonstrated Schofield's deep understanding of race dynamics and his mount's capabilities, especially when facing a formidable opponent with an unbeaten record.
Trainer David Hayes, despite the disappointment of Ka Ying Rising’s loss, quickly shifted his focus to the future, outlining an ambitious plan for the gelding’s upcoming engagements. Hayes confirmed that Ka Ying Rising would return to Hong Kong to prepare for the Group 2 Jockey Club Sprint in November, followed by a bid for a third victory in the Group 1 Hong Kong Sprint in December. These races are crucial for Ka Ying Rising to reassert his dominance and continue adding to his already substantial career earnings. The defeat in The Everest, while ending a remarkable streak, serves as a valuable learning experience and a testament to the gelding’s resilience, as he still managed to finish incredibly close despite the unfavorable conditions. Both Hayes and jockey Zac Purton expressed confidence in Ka Ying Rising's ability to bounce back, underscoring his enduring quality and determination, even acknowledging his preference for drier tracks. His continued participation in major international events confirms his status as a top-tier contender with a bright future ahead.