Everest Diaries Platinum Souvenir - 2019 by Everest Diaries

EVEREST DIARIES PLATINUM SOUVENIR O C T O B E R

S E C R E T A R I A T ' S

2 0 1 9

W O R L D

P U B L I C A T I O N

Quality Feed For Superior Results

KENSINGTON PRODUCE QUALITY FEED FOR SUPERIOR RESULTS

Everest Diaries Platinum Souvenir 2019 Welcome, I have always loved magazines. I read the articles, stare at the photos, and study how text and image combined to create in my imagination stories, people, and news events. I notice the headlines and white space and typography and savour the whole experience found in those pages that carry me into the wider world. A magazine could be picked up, put down, returned to at will. The greatest magazines tell stories enabling the reader’s thoughts to travel far beyond the carriage of paper and ink. In this year’s edition of our The Everest Platinum Souvenir, we tell the stories of leaders of the racing industry connected 2019 The Everest runners. We have crucially asked all those we spoke to about why they believe theirs is the horse that will cross the finish line first. Whether it's the pedigree or the physical form and potential or their current standings, there is always a reason to see them why their horse will win. Robert Frost said: “Something we were withholding made us weak / Until we found it was ourselves.” Each of these horses has no reason to withhold themselves. They race to win, every time, irrespective of the size of their cheering squad. So its an opportunity to love every one of these beautiful sprinters as they line up next Saturday at Randwick.

Editor-in-chief Pallavi Shevade Creative Director Senior Editor Editorial Assistant Market Researcher Fashion

Ritesh Jamkhedkar Archana Bansode Prajwal Jain Pooja Agarwal GÁLA by Ameera

EDITORIAL OFFICE Post Box 124609 , Dubai, UAE +44 203 286 8458 | PR@secretariatsworld.com Everest Diaries is published by Secretariat's World Magazine KrisMedia Network www.everestdiaries.secretariatsworld.com

Enjoy Reading PShevade

Pallavi Shevade Editor-in-chief

Everest Diaries | October 2019

VIN COX: SCALING THE EVEREST, IN MORE WAYS THAN ONE

Founded by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Godolphin is considered to be one of the leading thoroughbred breeding operation and horseracing teams in the world spanning across four contents. As Managing Director of Godolphin Australia, Vin Cox has taken several decisions which have increased Godolphin's profile in the Southern Hemisphere including taking a slot in the A$14 million The Everest.

She has shown us in her training and in a recent barrier trial that she is in great form and it’s our belief that she offers us an outstanding chance in this great race.

Everest Diaries speaks to Vin Cox about The Everest, future plans for Godolphin Australia and much more:

Q) Why did Godolphin decide to get involved in The Everest as a slot holder? Are you able to share what plans are afoot when it comes to renewing your affiliation with The Everest in the next round?

Q) Godolphin has confirmed that multiple Gr.1 winner Alizee is to run in Godolphin’s The Everest slot. What made this mare perfect for the Richest Race On Turf in the world? A) We are in the fortunate position of having a choice of quality runners for The Everest, each of which would have been a great chance in the race. It wasn’t a simple decision, but in the end Alizee is a high-class mare who has shown excellent form when fresh.

Trekking, one of our other fast Group One winners is also ‘Everest Ready’. We’ll take aim at the Schillaci (Gr.2 Stakes race held at Caulfield racecourse) and try to secure second slot in The Everest.

A) We decided to get involved as we ( Godolphin Australia) had several potential contenders for this race. We very fortunate to have been awarded the slot and we would very much like to get involved with The Everest again. I have never seen anything like this in my thirty years in the racing industry. It is a fantastic concept, with great theatre and excellent coverage.

Q) In a previous interview, you have explained that you enjoy getting involved in day-to-day stable affairs alongside the more visionary aspects of your current role. And people in racing circles around Australia are willing to swear that they have never seen your smile falter. What has been a notable cringe-worthy moment during your Godolphin tenure? A) As you know, I previously worked with Magic Millions. When I first started with Godolphin, we purchased Exhilarates at the Magic Millions Gold Coast Sale. Exhilarates went on to win the A$2 million 2YO Classic during the Magic Millions carnival in outstanding fashion. On the day I was surrounded by old friends from Magic Millions and new friends and colleagues at Godolphin. I had tears in my eyes as I watched Exhilarates. It was a cringe-worthy moment to be crying, but it was a tremendous moment at the same time for me as part of the Godolphin team.

Everest Diaries | October 2019

Q) Next year is the 25th anniversary of the Dubai World Cup race. Are you able to share any plans for the forthcoming DWC race meeting?

We aim to grow opportunities by increasing our high-profile stallion prospects. We breed 120 foals every year, and we are continually searching for the next Dubawi, Megdalia dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Oro, or the next Street Cry.

A) Even this year we were keen to send our horses to Dubai. We hope to look at least one or two horses for the 2020 World Cup. We have Osborne Bulls as a speedy sprinter who could potentially compete in the sprint races. Then we have Avilius who could be on the longdistance program. We will analyse things closer to date as always. Q) How many racehorses does Godolphin have in Australia currently and of them how many are presently actively racing? Could you please tell us a bit more Godolphin Australia and your current stable stars? A) We have a total of 700 horses across our 7 Godolphin sites in Australia. Of those, 300 horses are in various stages of training, almost exclusively under James Cummings' care.

Breeding and racing horses at the highest level is done through sustained passion and sustained learning and sustained love for pedigrees. It doesn't happen by accident. Q) You have recently persuaded H.H. Sheikh Mohammed to invest in Godolphin Australia by buying more horses. What is your vision around these purchases?

Q) Who would you consider your top racehorses at Godolphin Australia? A) We are excited about all our horses. Hartnell at 9YO continues to race at the highest level, which is very commendable. Then we have horses like Avilius, Alizee, Osborne Bulls, Exhilarates and Trekking. Q) Godolphin Australia has had an unbelievably fantastic year under your guidance and captaincy. What are some of the goals on your bucket list for Godolphin by the year 2030?

A) 2030 is still a long way off, but I would like to see Godolphin Australia take home a Melbourne Cup, a Cox Plate, a The Everest trophy, a Caulfield Cup. Grahame Mapp With / A) We are seeking to November broaden ourFlight stallion profileGrahme by providing Australian Mapp We won the Golden Slipper earlier this breeders access to successful year and would like to win all the elite bloodlines from around the world. Australian races. Godolphin will continue to make yearling purchases during the Australian yearling sales to improve the quality of our bloodlines.

Hartnell CF Orr Stakes / Godolphin

bridal | september 2019

Everest Diaries | October 2019

We would also like to send our horses to international races such as the Dubai World Cup Carnival, Royal Ascot and even onward to America. Furthermore, as you know, Godolphin is powered by the Darley stallions, and we would like to stand the most commercial stallions in the Southern Hemisphere. Q) And finally, who is your favourite horse of all time? And why? A) I would have to say it was Manikato. He was a large, strong chestnut gelding. I saw him race when I was about ten years old. As a 2YO the Australian Racing Hall of Famer won the Blue Diamond Stakes & Golden Slipper Stakes double. During his career, he won 5 successive William Reid Stakes, 4 Futurity Stakes & 11 Group One races, earning A$1,154,210 in his lifetime. I was at a very impressionable age at the time, and I believe Manikato is the horse who inspired me to go into the racing industry.

Vin Cox Darley Vin Cox / Godolphin

Kiamichi winning the 2019 Golden Slipper

Everest Diaries | October 2019 8

FEATURES

Redzel As Yearling / Triple Crown Syndications

E v e r e s t D i a r i e s | O c t o b e r 2 0 1 9 10

CHRIS WARD: AIMING FOR THE THREE-PEAT During the 2014 Gold Coast Magic Millions Yearling Sale, the Ward brothers purchased a Snitzel colt for a mere A$120,000. Today that gelding is a dual Group One and 2-time The Everest Stakes winner with earnings of A$15,644,000. He is known in global racing circles as one of the fastest horses on turf on the planet. Redzel is his name.

Chris and Michael Ward both owned successful financial businesses before younger brother Chris, followed his passion and set up racehorse syndication company Triple Crown Syndications 17 years ago. Brother Michael, of Roseville, followed and together they have built their company into one of Australia’s most successful syndicator businesses with champion Redzel as their stable star. Everest Diaries speaks to Chris Ward about the upcoming Everest, where the Snitzel colt will be aiming for a threepeat. Q) Where does the name ‘Redzel’ come from and how did you decide to go with this name? A) After we have formed a new syndicate of owners for a new horse, we ask them all to submit some name suggestions. We then ask all owners to vote on these names to find the most popular name to then register. On this occasion, it was Redzel which simply represented the ‘Red’ colours of Triple Crown Syndications and the ‘zel’ comes from his sire Snitzel.

Q) Did you expect him to do as well as he did in the horrendous downpour last year. Or did you have your heart in your hand for a moment there? A) He had a little hiccup about a month before the race which had us worried for about forty eight hours but he quickly came good and was building particularly well into The Everest. So, we had a lot of confidence that he was a real live chance to win it again. When the heavens opened up and the torrential rain came, it only enhanced our confidence as we knew it would only detract a tiny bit from Redzel’s chances, but it may dent the chances of a few other runners. His versatility on all track surfaces is a big advantage. Q) Redzel is aiming for the threepeat which has landed the spotlight on yourselves. Obviously, Redzel doesn’t know it but has there been any extra pressure on yourselves or the trainer as a result of this public interest?

A) I think we felt more pressure in the first year of The Everest. The build-up was enormous as it continues to be every year now but back then we didn’t know what to expect. Now we have experienced that for a couple of years as have our owners, so we are a bit more relaxed with it whilst still being extremely excited to be a part of it again. We are also so fortunate to have won both runnings of The Everest so far, so really, anything is a bonus from here. Q) What has winning The Everest twice in a row, felt like and what would be winning the Everest crown for a third time mean to you? A) Amazing. simply amazing. The Everest is a juggernaut and went from not existing to immediately being an enormous event in year 1, which is unheard of. For mine, and for differing reasons, it is right up there next to the Melbourne Cup as far as the pinnacle of our sport in Australia.

Everest Diaries | October 2019

A) The ownership group is a great mix of people from all different parts of the country who didn’t know each other beforehand but are now like a big family travelling from carnival to carnival and sharing this great experience that Redzel is giving them.

The Melbourne Cup has the incredible tradition and history but Australia’s staying ranks are not our best asset, whilst The Everest is new and brash, and it caters for sprinters and we all know Australia’s sprinters are absolutely world-class. I think it may have been the highest-rated sprint race in the world over the last couple of years.

We have people from all walks of life who share the common passion for the horse. They include Police Officers, a Doctor, a Teacher, a Pharmacist, a couple of Restaurateurs, a Concreter, a Retiree, an ex-New South Wales cricket coach, an IT specialist and an importing/exporting businessman.

To win the inaugural The Everest felt like a massive achievement for our whole team and a dream come true. To win The Everest again in the second year was surreal. The most enjoyable aspect is being able to share in moments like that with our owners, the Snowdens, McEvoys, along with our family and friends.

Q) As Triple Crown, have you considered buying an Everest slot in the next round?

We now share those experiences for the rest of our lives and they can never be replicated anywhere else.

A) We would be interested in partnering with the right person for that.

Q) In terms of the pedigree, performance, physical condition & competition, why do you feel Redzel is best placed to win The Everest this year too? A) So far, he looks to have returned in magnificent order. His trials have been first class and he is feeling really well. He is the proven two-time champion of the race so we know when he is at his best he can beat anyone over the 1200m at Royal Randwick. He is a front running horse who makes his own luck and it doesn’t matter whether it is a dry or wet track for him. There is still a lot of water to go under the bridge but our confidence is building every week as we get closer to the race. The bottom line is, that we know he is a live chance to do it again and that would be out of this world!

Q) What is your process when you buy a horse and what are the sales you frequent? Chris & Michael Ward after Redzel won the NSW Champion Sprinter award / Triple Crown Syndications

Q) What are the plans for Redzel after The Everest? A) Following The Everest, there is every chance that we will take him down to Melbourne for the Group 1 VRC Sprint down the straight at Flemington. Q) Who are your other Triple Crown stars? A) Past Group One winners include Peggy Jean and Hot Snitzel but the current horses include the likes of Military Zone who is currently targeting the new A$7,500,000 Golden Eagle, Brave Song, Missile Mantra, Dothraki and Moss Trip whom all have some lofty goals for the Spring Carnival. Q) Could you tell us a bit more about the Redzel ownership group?

A) We attend all the major sales. We spend a lot of time working through all the pedigrees before we even get to the sales. This gives us a very large list of horses that we believe are genetically capable of making it to the top level. We then go & inspect all the horses physically (both on-farm and at the sales complex) to narrow it right down to minimise the potential risks & increase our percentages of success by identifying the best athletes. Q) The decade is almost over. What is on your bucket list of things to do before 2030? A) We are always looking to evolve what we are doing. One race that I would love to knock over is the Golden Slipper, preferably with a colt. We have competed in that race many times but to date, it has eluded us. So, we have set about trying to make it happen.

Everest Diaries | October 2019

FEATURES

Mr. Yuesheng Zhang with Catch me. Yulong Investments

Everest Diaries | October 2019

YUESHENG ZHANG: GOING FOR ‘RED' GOLD, AGAIN In the Chinese culture, the colour Red, corresponding with fire, symbolizes good fortune and joy. Once again Everest slot holder Yulong Investments has partnered with Triple Crown Syndication and defending champion Redzel, fondly called ‘Red’ to those who know him.

Yulong Investments is owned by Mr. Yuesheng Zhang, well known in the racing circles for his expensive purchases in Australia and promising runners around the world. Yulong also hosted the first public auction of Thoroughbreds in Mainland China. Everest Diaries caught up with Mr. Zhang to discuss his love for horseracing, his Everest slot and their Everest runner and much more:

Q) Did you expect Everest to gain the level of popularity that it has? Will you continue to remain a The Everest slot holder in the future too? A) I felt so thrilled when ATC published news about The Everest. The Thoroughbred horse racing industry has developed quite well in Australia, and its influence has spread across the whole world. Yulong has more than 200 racehorses in Australia, and Yulong will remain the Everest Slot holder forever.

Q) How did you get involved with Thoroughbred horseracing, and what are your plans for Yulong Investments in the next ten years?

Q) Are there any Everest contenders from the current field who give you a cause for concern?

A) The reason I got involved with Thoroughbred horse racing was that the experience (I had with them) when I was young.

A) I think Santa Ana Lane is the most active competitor in The Everest (2019) this year. I was watching his race record, and he performed quite strong.

I grew up with horses. After traveling and learning about the Thoroughbred horse racing industry around the world, I am fascinated by the culture the passion of Thoroughbred horse racing. Thoroughbred horse racing is an elegant sport and faces a high-level group of people. Those are very attractive.

Q) What are your plans for the Dubai World Cup in 2020? A) In the last 4 years, each year we have been sending our (most) qualified racing horses to The Dubai World Cup racemeeting.

In future, we will continue to attend this big event. I have no idea when we can win the Gr.1 Dubai World Cup, but we will keep sending our best horses to the Dubai World Cup Raceday. Q) Why did you choose Australia for your sizable racing industry investments? A) The temperature, environment, and atmosphere in Australia are (most) suitable for Thoroughbred horses to grow, and the Thoroughbred racing industry is extremely developed. In the future, China and Australia Thoroughbred racing industry will have frequent interactions; their integration is more manifested and advantageously complement each other. Q) Which is your favourite racehorse of all time? A) Winx is one of my favorites horses. She is a legendary horse, Chris Waller found her talented and trained her well.

Everest Diaries | October 2019

FEATURES

Hinnerk with Hartnell taken at Godolphin stables in Agnes Banks NSW

E v e r e s t D i a r i e s | O c t o b e r 2 0 1 9 16

ADVERTISING FEATURE

HINNERK HUEPPE: HAPPY HORSES MAKE HEALTHY RACEHORSES Hannover Lodge, owned and run by Hinnerk Hueppe, is a thriving thoroughbred facility based in Wilberforce, an hour out of Sydney, NSW, close to all the major city tracks.

Hannover Lodge, owned and run by Hinnerk Hueppe, is a thriving thoroughbred facility based in Wilberforce, an hour out of Sydney, NSW, close to all the major city tracks. Hinnerk named the farm as a tribute to his birthplace Hannover in Germany. Given the impressive facilities, when you enter the driveway one could easily mistake this farm for a longestablished facility. However, the farm was only setup in June 2017. Nestled on an undulating 120acres of green landscape, Hannover Lodge cares for 100 horses on any given day. The farm is dedicated to "preparing the elite racehorse” offering pre-training, breaking-in, rehabilitation, and spelling. Hinnerk firmly believes in the fact that happy horses are always better athletes. Therefore, he prides himself on the level of care and attention he pays to each horse that comes his way, with an incredible memory for detail.

Hinnerk started his horse training as a young boy competing in showjumping at a high level in Germany. After finishing school, he continued to ride. He went on the complete a Business Economics degree, as well as a butchers’ apprenticeship,and worked at his parents bussiness where he gained valuable insight into logistics, procedures, and human relations. Upon movinng to Australia, he took up a job training horses for a successful Warmblood horse breeder, and it was at this time he was introduced to the Thoroughbred industry. He started out riding some trackwork at a prestigious pre-training facility that evolved into a management position over several years. During this period he developed a keen interest in training and managing young thoroughbreds. His hunt for knowledge to find the best ways to develop a top racehorse saw him move to Scone for a racing manager position, where he worked with his first successful Ready to Race draft for the Inglis sales.

Upon returning to Sydney, he continued to ride trackwork at the city tracks while he worked towards realising his new dream to find a quality set-up to and starting his pre-training farm. During this time he built valuable relationships with trainers and suppliers in the industry. With a natural eye for excellent racehorses and a strong network within the top tier of Sydney’s racing elite, Hinnerk was fortunate enough to be involved in bloodstock purchases. In fact two of his earliest selections went on to become Group-placed horses. His first ever selection, Man of Choice, was broken in by Hinnerk and trained by Luke Price. Man of Choice was placed in the Gr.1 Champagne Stakes, competed in the Melbourne Derby and placed in the Gr.2 Phar Lap Stakes. In 2015 he was also nominated for the Country Horse of the Year.

Everest Diaries | October 2019

Man of Choice holds a strong place in Hinnerkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heart and is now retired at Hannover Lodge with plans to have him as a riding horse for the future. Hinnerk is enterprising by nature with propensity for problem solving. He is currently working with collaborators on a variety of ideas. In particular, he is currently working on a product designed to assist in the prevention and management of common skin conditions that tend to occur in horses in work. Another product they are working on is the establishment of a digital program tailored for individual businesses to assist in the training and management of staff.

As heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been building Hannover Lodge he has held onto a vision of diversifying his business, with the help of other professionals, to keep it interesting, stay in step with industry growth and create longevity in his career. He maintains an active interest in the selection and purchase of quality bloodstock, from yearlings through to tried horses for his clients, with the intention of spending more time on this particular aspect in the future. A key initiative for Hannover Lodge is to acquire a second property within the next five years to set up a dedicated rehabilitation facility to offer his clients a more comprehensive service.

2019 has seen Hannover lodge have it's busiest breaking-in season yet. Moreover, for the second year running the farm will present a draft at the Inglis Ready to Race sale at Warwick farm in October. Hannover's 2019 highlight Lot is #112, an eye-catching athletic type colt by Mossman out of Never (Tale of the Cat, USA). Hinnerk has known the colt since it was a weanling and he just continues to impress to date. The draft is already double the number of horses from 2018. The future is looking very bright for Hannover Lodge. Watch this spaceâ&#x20AC;Ś

bridal | september 2019

Everest Diaries | October 2019

BOB PETERS: THE QUEEN AND I Arcadia Queen, owned and bred by prominent West Australian horseman Bob Peters is pegged as one of the favourites to win the A$14 million Everest title. Everest Diaries speaks to Australia’s top horseman about The Everest, his passion for racing & breeding, the industry and much more

The star filly is expected to attempt an ‘The Everest-Golden Eagle double. Arcadia Queen is touted by the oracles of the Australian racing industry as a worthy successor in the wings to the mighty Winx herself. Q) What is special about Arcadia Queen’s pedigree line? A) Arcadia Queen is from a family we have been developing over many years. Arcadia Queen is from Arcadia, the first daughter of Antique who we raced with some success and had produced for us quite a few fillies that we have raced and have joined our broodmare band. Q) As an owner, breeder and a horseman, why do you believe Arcadia Queen is best placed to win The Everest? A) Arcadia Queen is lightly raced. She has so far, shown herself to have above average ability. The testing uphill Randwick straight should suit her style of racing

Q) What are the plans for Arcadia Queen after The Everest? A) After this race hopefully Arcadia Queen will run in The Golden Eagle two weeks later. Q) Enticing Star was confirmed for an Everest run. Why did you decide to retire her? A) Although there was no pressure from the Chris Waller Racing syndicate to withdraw Enticing Star from the Everest mix, in the best interests of the horse I have decided to retire Enticing Star. The run on Saturday at Rosehill in the Golden Pendant was below par and indicated to me she doesn’t want to be a racehorse. Q) Which mare-line would you say is your favourite and which has been the most successful? How do you plan matings? A) Our breeding program is based on families that we have developed over many years through as many as 5 generations.

Most of our better racehorses trace back to the following mares – Antique, Lady Ashford, Miss Margaret, So Stunning (GB), Flaming Heart and Reflected Image. Q) Which stallions do you currently have shares in? Do you breed for specific races or distances? A) We have shares in Pierro, Vancouver, Xtravagant (NZ), Animal Kingdom (USA), Dundeel (NZ) and Tosen Stardom (JPN). We aim our programme mostly to producing sound racehorses that can perform at all distances. We do not breed to aim at specific races. We do not breed a lot of sprinters – most of our breeding is more toward middle distance horses. However we are very excited that Arcadia Queen has showed her potential in sprinting Q) Why is Thoroughbred breeding & racing so close to your heart?

Everest Diaries | October 2019

A) The interest in the breeding of horses comes from my early introduction to working horses and from a lifetime of riding horses. Q) Please tell us more about your beautiful homestead? A) We purchased our current farm 27 years ago and have been working on improving it ever since then. It is ideally placed being close to Perth on the edge of the Darling Scarp with a safe, high rainfall and is well drained. Q) The decade is almost over. What is on your bucket list of things to do before 2030? A) Before 2030 I would like to win an Everest, Cox Plate and Caulfield Cup, along with as many stakes races as possible.

Bob Peters with Arcadia Queen/ Photo - Paddy Sweeney, Nine News Perth

Bob Peters with Arcadia Queen / Pierre Huembs

Everest Diaries | October 2019

SANTA ANA HEADLINES THE EVEREST ARMADA The William Street Syndicate has already won a Melbourne Cup, two Caufield Cups, a Queensland Guineas and a Newcastle Gold Cup. The Everest Trophy seems to be missing from their trophy case, but only just for the moment.

Spanish play right look de Vega headlines Spanish play right lope de Vega has inspired many an artist, but it will surprise is quite a few to know he has also inspired a racing syndicate. Young Vega enlisted in the Spanish Navy in 1583. He saw action at the Battle of Ponta Delgada. One of the lead ships of that Armada was named Santa Ana. Over 500 years later a good-looking colt sired by Lope Vega out of a mare called Fast Fleet was purchased by a Justin Bahen for a racing club called William Street Syndicate, started in the late 1970s. Influenced by the Spanish writers’ colourful life named the colt Santa Ana. And as the colt was christened Santa Ana Lane Initially the creative syndicate members, would name their horses after the narrow lanes around William Street, where the club house was located. One of their horses was the famous double Caulfield and Melbourne Cup winner Gurner's Lane.

Eventually however, they ran out of street-names and got creative with the names by making a play on the names in the horse’s pedigree. But all the horses owned by the syndicate still carry the suffix ‘Lane’. Clemenger, Joint Manager of the William Street Syndicate says he sincerely enjoys the process of naming the horses. A newly purchased horse has been named Trump Lane. “He is sired by Starspangled banner, so there was the American connection. As Donald Trump is the current US President, we decided to go with a play his name,” he said. (Trump Lane is an unraced 3YO who is currently being trained by Anthony Freedman.) “Since the beginning, we’ve had a couple of horses every year. We tend to have a good horse every decade. These days all our horses are identified and purchased by Justin Bahen,” said Clemenger.

The 44 members of the current group own 55 shares and those in Santa Ana Lane include three people who have never owned a horse before. In total, the group will be represented by about 90 people on the course at Royal Randwick. The eldest member is 90 and William Street still contains one of the three founders, Robin Clements. Santa Ana Lane was an A$80,000 buy for Justin Bahen at the 2014 Melbourne Premier Yearling Sale, from the Rosemont Stud draft. Initially the son of Lope de Vega was trained by both Lee and Anthony Freedman. Later, the former left Australia for the golden shores of Singapore and Anthony continued to train Santa Ana lane himself. Freedman believed in Santa Ana lane and was convinced that he could be a Group One-winning horse. They have their own ideas as to why Santa Ana Lane is the best horse in this year’s Everest lineup.

Everest Diaries | October 2019

“The horse has now matured. He had some trouble with his feet. We have now learnt the best way to shoe his feet and hence fix the issue with his feet. And he loves to eat, so he can gain weight easily. We now fully manage his food, even when he’s in the paddock. We have learned that he doesn’t need a lot of lead up runs. So, the way we train him is a bit different now,” said the seasoned horseman, Clemenger Reminiscing about Santa Ana Lane’s last year’s Everest performance, Clemenger’s voice takes a serious and disappointed tone, “Last year it was pouring all week of The Everest. And a few hours before the race itself it started bucketing down. It was so bad that had it been another raceday, they would have cancelled it."

"There were only a few horses that could have done well in such conditions. Redzel was one of them.” After our horse recovered, he came back to Melbourne for the Gr.1 VRC Sprint Classic (AKA Darley Classic held on the VRC Stakes Day), which he won,” said the proud owner fondly. 2019/2020 plans for the Lope De Vega son are firmly in place. After The Everest, he heads back to Melbourne to reclaim his VRC Sprint Stakes’ title and then to Hong Kong for the Hong Kong Sprint.

“The timeline is very tight. If he goes to (Royal) Ascot, he will have to stay in England, due to the quarantine restrictions." "Which would make it difficult for him to get back to his training for next year’s Everest.” The William Street Syndicate has already won a Melbourne Cup, two Caufield Cups, a Queensland Guineas and a Newcastle Gold Cup. The Everest Trophy seems to be missing from their trophy case, but only just for the moment.

Eventually, they have to decide between trips to Royal Ascot for the English summer or to start training for The Everest 2020.

bridal | september 2019

Everest Diaries | October 2019

FEATURES

Everest Diaries | October 2019

ADVERTISING FEATURE

MICHAEL HAMBLY: DELIVERS HIGH QUALITY FEED FOR SUPERIOR RESULTS Michael Hambly is the third-generation owner of Kensington Produce. His grandparents Rex and Roma Hambly started the business in 1955, originally located on Anzac Parade, 'Kensington'. They have continued to supply the industry with high-quality horse feed. Today seven out of the ten top trainers in Australia use Kensington Produce for all their requirements.

Michael Hambly chats to Everest Diaries about their history, their endless pursuit of high-quality feed for their customers and their plans Q) Could you please tell us more about the history of Kensington Produce? Kensington produce will celebrate 65 years of trading next year. Rex Hambly initially started his career at the race track as an apprentice jockey at the age of fifteen. He eventually obtained his jockey license at 21 years old. After riding his share of winners, weight became an issue and then transitioned at 25 years old to become a licenced racehorse trainer at Randwick. After five years as a trainer, he realised that the industry needed high-quality feed suppliers. Eventually, Hambly established himself as the leading produce merchant. At that time, there were over 60 retail outlets in the local area. As their presence and standard of quality in the stock feed industry grew it meant acquiring a bigger warehouse.

So my family decided to sell that place and moved into a purpose built warehouse, which we currently operate out of now located at Banksmeadow in the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney. Our prime location places us 10 minutes from Randwick Racecourse and 15 minutes to the M5 to service the outer Sydney racecourses. Q) What kind of feed do you supply? A) We supply grain sourced from irrigated farms in the Riverina. The grain is brought back to our Banksmeadow warehouse and processed through our state of the art purpose-built in-house Mill. Thus, we package the freshest quality into 25kg bags, bulka bags, or portable 1-tonne Silo's ready for delivery to our customers. We also supply other premium premix brands such as Mitavite, Hygain, Barastock, Coprice, Prydes, and Southern Cross Feeds and can even customise feed into small 500kg batches at customer request.

Q) Kensington Produce supplies most of the top thoroughbred trainers in the state. What is the secret behind your success? A) The secret of our success is the wealth of knowledge we have gained by operating for nearly 65 years as well as our willingness to go above and beyond for our customers. Q) You recently travel the length and breadth of Australia. Please tell us why? A) Each season brings with it new challenges with this current one being no different. We pride ourselves on sourcing the best produce handselected from regions that had the best growing conditions. I am confident that despite this seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s VERY tough conditions that Kensington Produce will be able to uphold its reputation and supply a highly satisfactory product. Over our 64 years of service, we have developed an extensive network of growers allowing us to deliver our high quality produce in an abundance. Everest Diaries | October 2019

Farmers want to work with us as we are honest and deliver fast transactions on agreements, allowing for peace of mind come harvest time. Our farmers can focus on doing what they do best and harvesting only the best quality crop for our customers. Q) Please tell us a bit more about the Kensington Produce legacy? A) From a young age, I knew I wanted to be a part of this family legacy. "Kenso," as we refer to it, has seen three generations of Hambly's operate through its doors, and I look forward to continuing that tradition. Each generation of Hamblys has assisted in helping Kenso adapt to the current market place and develop the brand further, making it the successful business it is today.

bridal | september 2019

Everest Diaries | October 2019

FEATURES

Sunlight winning the Gr.1 Coolmore Stud Stakes / Widden Stud

E v e r e s t D i a r i e s | O c t o b e r 2 0 1 9 28

DAVID REDVERS: SUNLIGHT'S 'RAW AUSTRALIAN SPEED' David Redver's co-owned Sunlight will represent slot holder Max Whitby's interests in the A$14 million Everest. Tony McEvoy's 4YO charge has amassed career earnings of A$4,383,950, with 10 wins from 17 starts.

Group One winning Sunlight, is like a beam of light, capable of cutting through the competition. The 4YO mare is owned by Qatar Racing's H.H Sheikh Fahad, along with Loretta Fung, the wife of another Everest slot holder Aquis Farm and seven other women. Everest Diaries chats Redvers Qatar Racing's bloodstock manager daughter of Gr.3 winning Charged.

with David racing and about the mare - Solar

Q) Could you please tell us about your Sunlight journey? A) We bought her dam; Solar Charged at the Magic Millions breeding stock sale in partnership with Antony Thompson of Widden as she was exactly the type of mare that we all felt would help get Zoustar up and running. When we came to sell Sunlight as a yearling, we all liked her so much that retaining a leg with Tony McEvoy seemed the perfect outcome.. When we came to sell Sunlight as a yearling, we all liked her so much that retaining a leg with Tony McEvoy seemed the perfect outcome.

Q) In terms of Pedigree, Performance, and physical condition, could you tell us why Sunlight is best placed to win The Everest this year?

Q) How did you get involved in the industry? was not for horses, what would have been the next best career for you?

A) Her pedigree is all raw Australian speed and her performances have proven her to be top class. Tony will have her in prime condition with several prep races lined up en route to have her peaking for the Everest.

A) I grew up with ponies and then hunting and after 3 months planting trees in Australia aged 18, realized that any career I was to follow had to involve horses.

Q) What are the plans for Sunlight after The Everest (2019)? A) We have seen that she thrives on racing. She is very powerful, but a bit stuffy so needs to get on the track. All these things are yet to be discussed, however H.H. Sheikh Fahad and I would love to see her at Royal Ascot next year where she would be tough to beat. I think she is capable of emulating Choisir and Blue Point by winning the King Stand and the Diamond Jubilee Stakes at the same meeting, but what happens after that is all (whether she is to continue racing or be retired) open to discussion.

I spent the remaining months of my gap year working in polo and hunting yards before landing a job at Rockleer Stud near Bathurst, where I realized that my future lay with bloodstock. When I came home, I reversed my plans to join the army and went to work on stud farms in the UK to gain as much experience as possible before returning home to convert the family farm into the Tweenhills people know today

Everest Diaries | October 2019

Q) Can you please tell us a bit more about your history with Al Thani family and how you were introduced to them? A). I was introduced to H.H Sheikh Fahad by a friend of my sister’s in 2010. I had just landed at Karaka and received an email saying there was a young Sheikh who wanted to meet me to discuss buying a couple of racehorses. I was to meet him at the Lanesborough Hotel in four days and I scrambled back in the nick of time and the rest is history! Q) Congrats on standing Zoustar this year. What was the secret to this coup?

A) H.H Sheikh Fahad and I watched him win the Coolmore and went to see him with Antony the next morning. We were blown away by the physical presence of the horse and bought into him there and then. Since that moment we have backed him at every turn and he has never let us down. I genuinely believe he is one of those rare, great stallions that will leave his mark on the breed.

As a rule Hannah Wall (my assistant of the last 14 years) will have put ratings and prices etc in my catalogue.

Q) When you prepare to visit the sales with serious intent to buy, what is your process?

In Australia we generally use the Widden team as a sounding board as I have huge respect for both AntonyThompson & Ryan McEvoy’s opinions, whilst in the US we sound out Fergus Galvin and Adrian Regan.

A) We don’t really get the opportunity to go around the farms and pre-inspect yearlings as we fly in to Sydney or Brisbane with just enough time to see the yearlings 2-3 times before the sale starts.

She will then go around the stock in front of me. I will look at what she has left on & we will then second look together. Once we are happy that we have seen everything, what remains on the list will be shown to HH Sheikh Fahad or another client.

Qatar Racing team L-R are me, Hannah Wall, Peter Molony, Kevin Darley and Bryony Rusbridge. / David Redvers bridal | september 2019

E v e r e s t D i a r i e s | O c t o b e r 2 0 1 9 30

PETER BROWN: OBSERVING WHAT’S NEEDED, EVERYTIME The Knights Templar was the custodians of the Holy Grail. And Peter Brown is a knight from another era who has been appointed the custodian of the Cobroft line.

Brown heads the prominent horsebreeding family's trust, which he hopes to take to the world stage through In Her Time - a 7YO mare passed in as a yearling with an A$40,000 reserve and now the winner of over A$3.1 million. In an interview with last year’s Everest Diaries, Peter Brown had said that “he was just doing his job for close friends, the late John and Denise Cobcroft.” John Cobcroft was a prominent NSW owner-breeder &a former Quirindi Jockey Club president. His father raced Gr1 AJC Derby winner Caranna & the Cobcroft family has bred dozens of winners. In Her Time, is a favourite contender for the A$14 million Everest. She was considered unlucky not to get a start in the 2017 Everest race and went on to win the consolation, the Sydney Stakes. Last year she was seventh amidst pouring rain in a wet sloppy track.

As a realisation of the dream, Brown has succeeded in two milestone achievements. Firstly, he has managed to sell 50% of her share to Orbis Bloodstock from Hong Kong. Secondly, he proud owner’s mare has been selected once again to contest the Richest Race On Turf In The World.

I wanted to make sure that she is not sensitive about that area. The bridle had to go over her head.

Brown’s philosophy for his horses is “observe what's needed”.He remembers Tommy Woodcock, “the great strapper of Phar Lap.” Woodcock and Phar Lap were inseparable; He often slept beside the beast and legend has it that Phar Lap would not accept food from anyone else.

The 2018 Everest was stressful for Brown for several reasons. The then Newcastle trainer Ben Smith was suspended just a few weeks before The Everest following a cobalt-related raid on his stables.

So I pat her head every time I go to see her. She puts her head down for her rub, every time she sees me,” says the owner with a sense of joy.

Phar Lap died at the age of six in California in 1932 with his friend by his side.

At the time there would have been a lot of pressure on Brown to keep the slot holder and the media happy. But he was focused on his mare’s safety and comfort.

Brown has his own personal rituals with In Her Time. “I always make it a point to pat her head, between her ears. She was injured on her head as a foal by a stable door.

In Her TIme was moved seamlessly to the care of premier Newcastle trainer Kris Lees, who also trains other 2018 Everest contenders - Graff and Le Romain.

Everest Diaries | October 2019

Brown knew the trainer since he was a boy, but more importantly Lees’ stable is very close to where In Her Time’s erstwhile trainer Ben Smith’s stable was located. “She is now stabled just twenty yards from where she was earlier,” he said. “Her environment hasn’t changed. Her track work rider is still Cameren Swan. Swan an ex-jockey and he has been track rider ever since she started racing. And Kris Lees’ looks after her (In Her Time) like there is no tomorrow.” “She is around people she knows. Her routine is unchanged. She loves her routine.” “They take her for a swim and extralong walks. They pick green grass for her and they spoil her like a Queen.”

“I was always taught that horses have to want to run for you. A happy horse picks up on what you want.” “Confidence between man and horse comes with association & consistency of environment,” concludes the happy owner. “She is the most beautiful, kindest & most intelligent mare.”

After The Everest, she is headed for the high profile sprint races in Melbourne and thereafter to Hong Kong for the Hong Kong International Sprint in December. Once she is back from Hong Kong, she will be rested and then sent back to Melbourne for the Autumn Carnival. All in all Peter Brown seems to have the Everest win by the scruff of the neck!

“She is a treasure, very determined. Once the saddle goes on she goes for a run. And when she is at the track, she wants to win,” said he. Her year is intricately planned out. “This is her last year as a racehorse," says Brown. He is confident, the mare 'will let him know'.

Kris Lees - Cameren Swan (IHT Trackwork rider) Peter Brown (owner) - Corey Brown / Kriss Lees Racing

bridal | september 2019

E v e r e s t D i a r i e s | O c t o b e r 2 0 1 9 33

WIDDEN STUD: LET THE SUNSHINE IN Australian thoroughbred breeder Antony Thompson bred Group One winning Sunlight was bred on the iconic Widden Stud. They continue to retain a shareholding in the 4YO bay mare through his wife, Katie Thompson along with Aquis Farm owner Tony Fung’s wife, Loretta Fung, among others.

A$14 million The Everest contender Sunlight was bred at Antony Thomson's Widden Stud with two other partners Sheikh Fahad’s Qatar Bloodstock, Dan & Rae Fletcher of Telemon Stud “Together we purchased Sunlight’s dam Solar Charged at the 2014 Magic Millions Broodmare Sale. Widden & Qatar Bloodstock had recently purchased a major interest in Northern Meteor’s dual Group One-winning colt Zoustar," said Thompson. “We're committed to secure some highclass mares for his first season at stud. Solar Charged was a brilliant 2YO who won the Kindergarten Stakes as a 2YO by 5 lengths and was a leading chance in the Golden Slipper.” “We identified her as an ideal mare for Zoustar on all our key requirements; type, pedigree & race performance.” “It was all very straightforward from there. She conceived on the first cover and her resultant foal, born & raised at Widden would turn out to be none other than Sunlight.” concluded ownerbreeder.

As with all the matings planned at Widden, the paring was a well thought out plan, “Solar Charged’s pedigree really appealed to us. She had influences of Red Ransom, Danehill & Bletchingly that we felt was going to really compliment Zoustar. “

Few stallions sire a 1-2-3 in any race, however, Zoustar achieved the feat (with his first crop) in a Group One, the Coolmore Stud Stakes when Sunlight held off the outstanding colts Zousain and Lean Mean Machine down the Flemington straight 1200m.

“When you look at what has worked with the Encosta de Lago's sireline – the branches in her pedigree just matched up perfectly.”

“Interestingly, I recently read that Zoustar sits just below Galileo in the Apex Ratings (A; ‘elite’ Runners) for Australia,"

Currently, Zoustar is a leading shuttle stallion in both Hemispheres. He shuttles between Widden Stud and David Redvers’ Tweenhills Stud (UK).

"That’s a great indication of the level of high-class performers Zoustar is producing and a very exciting statistic given it’s formed off just one crop to assess,”

“Zoustar is a phenomenon really. He has quickly filled the void left by the early passing of his Champion young sire Northern Meteor. Having been crowned Champion Australian First Season Sire for 2017/18, has established an unassailable lead as this season’s Champion Australian 3yo sire with earnings over A$7m (over A$1m more than Snitzel who is 2nd on the list).”

“When Sunlight won the Magic Millions 2YO Classic we would perhaps have to credit the early maturity of her mother however when she won the Coolmore Stud Stakes as a 3YO she reminded us very much of Zoustar who of course won the same race in brilliant fashion.”

Everest Diaries | October 2019

Thompson was very impressed from the beginning of this beautiful filly.

Sunlight was the belle of the 2017 Magic Millions Yearling Sale ball.

“She was a filly we rated highly right from the moment she was born. She has clearly defined characteristics of both her sire & dam which I feel is important.

“She was sold at the 2017 Magic Millions Yearling Sale on the Gold Coast and was of course from the first crop of Zoustar. “

“As she progressed through to her yearling preparation it was evident there was a real willingness & determination within her and it’s been a pleasure to see this on display when she racing.”

“Zoustar’s progeny have been received exceptionally well and this filly was no different. "

“Notwithstanding her brilliance, I love the way she pins her ears back and fights when challenged in a race – like the Silver Slipper Stakes as a 2YO or her Group One wins in the Coolmore Stud Stakes & Newmarket Handicap.”

Tony McEvoy in particular just kept coming back to look at her and subsequently purchased her for A$300,000 in conjunction with Julian Blaxland representing Aquis Farm."

The syndicate consisted of a group of woman that included my wife Katie Thompson and Dan Fletcher’s wife, Rae." Twelve months later this lucky group were fortunate enough to win the Magic Millions 2YO Classic and also win the rich A$500,000 ‘Racing Women’s bonus, a wonderful initiative by Magic Millions to introduce more women into racehorse ownership.” “What a ride since it has been for everyone involved,” concluded Thompson

In the days after following her purchase, Tony syndicated her among stable clients.“

(L-R) Sam, Amy, Antony, & Katie Thompson Widden Stud

Everest Diaries | October 2019

JUSTIN BAHEN: THE ART OF PLAYING THE GAME GENTLY "I have to like the horse immediately, or else it is rare that I would buy it. And I liked this one," said Bahen of the yearling he purchased for the William Street Syndicate whose current career earning stand at A$5 million.

The year was 2014, and the location was Inglis' Oakland sales complex. Lot: 257 had caught the eye of Justin Bahen, one of the world's premier bloodstock agents.

At the time of the interview, Justin was in the UK, heading to the Baden Baden sales in search of stayers for the Australian market.

"Although no horse is perfect, the obvious one will be the most expensive. So, I always prefer to go by type and can on occasion, forgive conformation faults."

"The yearling was sired by the shuttle stallion Lope de Vega, but he had more of a Fastnet Rock look about him"

"Australia breeds the best sprinters in the world, but I am hoping to find some top-quality stayers in Germany for our longer distance races."

"He had very good confirmation and was perfect for the budget I had from the William Street Syndicate."

"I am constantly travelling. I attend most of the Australian sales and 2-3 Northern Hemisphere sales."

Bahen was brought up in a hotel/pub owned by his father while his grandfather was an Australian bookmaker. However, eventually Bahen relocated to Hong Kong. He now emphatically refers to Hong Kong as ‘home'.

"I secured him for A$80,000," says Bahen about Everest contender Santa Ana Lane, whom he purchased on behalf of the William Street Syndicate.

"I work on my own, so there is a lot of groundwork. The more horses I can see, the more diluted the list."

"My father was a professional sportsman, and I played football at a young age."

Although many bloodstock agents and trainers swear by confirmation, Bahen is quick to step back and profess his preference for yearling ‘Type' instead.

"In my twenties, I was involved in the finance and hospitality industry.

"Today a similarly attractive horse will cost anywhere between A$150,000 to A$200,000." Syndicate Principals, Micheal Clemenger and Michael Ramsden place all their trust in Bahen's ability to find them diamonds of the first water to win Group races locally and eventually around the world.

"If I like the Type, I am forgiving in confirmation."

However, in my early thirties, I decided to take a different approach." "I was too heavy to be a jockey and too lazy to be a trainer."

"For me (when buying horses at sales) it’s always Type first, then Pedigree and then the cost." Everest Diaries | October 2019

"But I love this industry, and I wanted to concentrate on something I love."

Bahen has use all his experience and skill while buying horses for his topprofile clients.

"I got into the bloodstock industry while also working in the finance and hospitality sector."

"It's a game to be played very gently.â&#x20AC;? Michael Clemenger, Managing Principal of the William Street syndicate which owns Everest Contender Santa Ana Lane, firmly believe in Bahen.

"I knew I had to be successful early so that I could do this full time. I have been involved in this industry for 19 years, of which 16 years I have been working on it full time."

And Bahen firmly believes in hard work, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am a great believer that if you apply yourself a hundred percent, one can be very successful," concludes the bloodstock maestro.

Justin Bahen makes the bloodstock business sound like a cakewalk, yet he agrees when this journalist says, it's both an art and a science. There are thousands of horses on offer each year, finding a racehorse capable of winning at Group level is like searching for a needle in a haystack.

Justin Bahen

Justin Bahen with Santa Ana Lane / Justin Bahen bridal | september 2019

Everest Diaries | October 2019

CARMEL SIZE: BACKING THE GREYS TO THE TOP OF THE EVEREST The colt Carmel Size 'just had to have ' headlines this year's A$14m The Everest. He self confessed obsession for horses is what drives one of Hong Kong's foremost bloodstock agents. Classique Legend is heading to The Everest and is also eyeing off the Golden Eagle.

The legend goes…. Carmel Size discovered an extraordinary yearling at the Inglis Classic Sale (2017). Bred by Tyreel Stud, the Not A Single Doubt x Pinnochio colt (Lot 73) was knocked down to Size, (who was acting on behalf of Mr. Bon Ho), for A$400,000 during the sale's first Gold Ribband session. The colt was the sale topper sold by Tyreel at that sale. In a subsequent interview with Linda Monds, the coowner of Tyreel, she remembered Carmel Size saying to her, after the sale, that she ‘just had to have him.' The yearling was Classique Legend, and today, he is one of the favorites in the third installment of the A$14 million Everest race. The lightly raced 4YO has thus far, earned A$867,500 in his career with three wins from 5 starts to his name. We spoke to Carmel Size about their Everest slot, their extraordinary horse and her Everest plans:

Q) What attracted you to Classique Legend in the first place? A) As a yearling he was well balanced and walked with ‘attitude' like he owned the place, he was a bit of a character too, and I bonded with him before I'd even purchased him. Pre-auction I knew for sure he was only ever going to come home with me, whatever the price. I choose and purchased the horse for Mr. Bon Ho and knew there was a risk; I may have had to go well over budget to secure him when it came to bidding on Classique Legend. But I just knew I had to trust my instincts and secure him and everything else would sort itself out Q) Given your lifetime association with Thoroughbred horses at the highest level, what was it about him, which made you decide that THIS was the horse who could win 2019 The Everest?

A) At this stage of Classique Legend's preparation, I wouldn't be prepared to say he can win the Everest ,as the horse still has to continue to make the quantum leap from his explosive first racing preparation and step up to another level again. Classique Legend’s return to racing as a 4YO in the Group 2 Shorts, has given me confidence that he can be more than competitive. Mr. Ho and I purchased the Slot in the hope that Classique Legend could make that natural improvement and I believe that we are on track to have a chance to be among the prize-money earners in what has become, one of the most exciting races in the world. To be honest the 2019 Everest may be too soon for Classique Legend at this stage of his development, but I know that as a seasoned 5YO in 2020 Everest, he’d be right up to the mark.

Everest Diaries | October 2019

The opportunity we were presented with, to try him this year is one of those once in a life-time moment and rather than wonder what if, we decided to ‘roll-the-dice’ and not die wondering! Q) What are the plans for Classique Legend after The Everest? A) Providing that Classique Legend comes through The Everest, sound and happy, the plan is to progress to the A$7.5 Million Golden Eagle over 1500m, which is a race in his own age group to be run at Rosehill on 2nd November 2019. I believe that Classique Legend will be ideally suited by the 1500m journey. Q) You have decided to take on the role of a co-slot-holder. What were your reasons to go for it? A) In order to convince Mr Ho that purchasing a Slot some 5 months out from the race and certainly well before we knew if Classique Legend had progressed to the next level. I felt that if I demonstrated to him, I was prepared to back my ‘wild, random' idea, of having a ‘shot' at the race, that he'd come on board and agree to proceed.

Q) When you prepare to visit the sales with serious intent to buy, what is your process? A) I usually start with the commercially successful stallions but place great emphasis on the dams that have visited those stallions. I'm a fan of duplicated bloodline nicking that some pedigree crosses can toss-up. The first five days of inspections are crazy for me it's like sorting out a jigsaw puzzle, and I have to remind myself of that every sale I attend, but, to be honest the horses I normally buy, find me and the ones I purchase off radar are horses I find crisscrossing the sale yards during inspections. Q) Could you tell us how you got involved with horses? If was not for horses, what would have been the next best career for you? A) My father is the Hall of Fame Trainer, Neville Begg. From a very young age, whenever I visited his stable I was absolutely fascinated with these majestic animals.

At the age of about 5, I was clueless about racing, however, whenever the opportunity arose, I just wanted to follow dad around the stables. My parents wonderfully took us to the races from a young age, and my earliest memories are watching races opposite the winning post always cheering the ‘grey' horses on whoever's stable they were from (how ironic is that now, Classique Legend, is a ‘grey'). I've been horse obsessed for 50 years, continuing to learn new things every day and never had any other thoughts about anything but a career that didn't involve horses. Q) The decade is almost over. In addition to winning The Everest, what is on your bucket list of things to do before 2030? A) I'm not a bucket list person, I look forward to each day and the challenges it can toss-up with horses no two days are the same. I desire to continue to be involved with horses until the day I drop, and if I can mentor or encourage anyone along the way to be the best they can, then that will satisfy me.

Needless to say, that line of thinking worked!! Q) What advantages do you hope The Everest will provide over the next few years? A) The Everest puts racing in New South Wales on the World Stage. The race transcends racing purists, in only its third year, it's rivalling the Melbourne Cup in recognition, drawing huge crowds, many of whom, may have never been racing before. Amongst the newcomers I hope that the Everest ignites their imaginations and we see a new generation of future owners, participants, and loyal fans. bridal | september 2019

Mr Bon Ho,Kerrin McEvoy,Carmel Size Mr Les Bridge Everest Diaries | October 2019

FEATURES

Peter Le Grand with wife Anne / Melbourne Racing Club

Everest Diaries | October 2019

PETER LE GRAND: SCALING THE EVEREST FROM MELBOURNE Hall Of Famer Peter Le Grand is Chairman of the historic Melbourne Racing Club, home to ‘The race Which Stops A Nation.’ Under his purview, the MRC has decided to take become a The Everest slot holder. We speak to Le Grand about the MRC slot, their plans for The Cups and much more

Q) How the MRC has gained the slot and what advantages do you see in this partnership with ATC? A) We discussed the vacant slot that became available. We wanted to ensure that the financials of our investment added up. We saw it as an opportunity to enhance the Schillaci Stakes and to also provide a vehicle for our involvement with the ATC. I have a good relationship with Matt McGrath and others and I personally wanted to put an end to this cross state poor commentary.

Q) What are MRC’s long-term plans for this slot and this collaboration with ATC? A) We will review our participation at the end of the Spring carnival. This is for one year only at this point in time.

Q) Why did you choose the Schillaci Stakes as MRC’s sprint of choice? A) It was the logical race from which the winner will be a competitive representative of the Melbourne Racing Club.

Mer De Glace from Japan is a very good horse. William Haggis has the Irish bred Raheen House and Saeed Bin Suroor has nominated Red Galileo who is no slouch.

Q) In terms of Pedigree & Physical Condition what is the type of horse you would like representing the MRC slot. A) The one that can run the distance and get home first.

Q) Please tell us a about the highquality international nominations which the MRC has received for The Cups? A) We have some really good internationals coming to compete from the 143 nominations.

We have lots of others who are from the Northern Hemisphere but trained now in Australia and two that come to mind are Capt Cook with Chris Waller and Django Freeman with Rob Hickmott.

Q) How is the Melbourne Racing Carnival shaping up? A) We expect it to be the best ever. We have a New York theme across all our activations. Q) Who is your favourite racehorse of all time and why? A) Makybe Diva. She was simply outstanding. She won 3 Melbourne Cups, ran second in the Caulfield Cup from the outside barrier 18. Then won a Cox Plate, Australian Cup, Sydney Cup, The BMW, the Memsie & the Turnbull stakes. She was by far the best. Q) Which is the best book you have read recently and a movie you have really enjoyed recently? A) I am reading a book on former trainer Rick Hore-Lacy at the moment which I am enjoying. I love reading books by Daniel Silva, a wonderful spy thriller writer. Recently I went and saw Downton Abbey with my wife and loved it. I love the character played by the wonderful Dame Maggie Smith.

Everest Diaries | October 2019

GRAHAME MAPP: PIERATA & THE HISTORIC HOBARTVILLE CONNECTION Pierata, one of the favourites tipped to win the A$14 million The Everest, was bred at the historic Hobartville Stud, owned by Grahame Mapp

Mapp, who is a passionate breeder of thoroughbreds, is Chairman of the Mapp Group of Companies which comprise an extensive portfolio of listed and private equity investments, commercial properties and feature films. He is also known for his philanthropic work for children’s causes. Pierata’s dam, Group Three winningNovember Flight is one of Hobartville's top broodmares descended from the Mr. Prospector line on the sire side and the Golden Slipper winning Century Miss on her dam side. Hobartville breeds with a number of successful families including that of its foundation mare Light Of Peace descended from the famous First Lady, which has produced many black-type winners at Hobartville over the past 40 years. “November Flight’s first foal, a colt by More Than Ready, was the standout at the 2011 Inglis Easter Yearling Sale where he sold for more than A$800,000."

Named Ashokan, he went on to win the Group 3 Skyline Stakes for 2-year-old’s before an injury. Her later progeny by More Than Ready also sold very well and produced City winners,” said Mapp.. Pierro retired to stand at Coolmore Stud in 2013. He was an outstanding racehorse, by far the best of his era, in my opinion. He won 11 Stakes races including 5 Group Ones from 14 starts as a 2YO and 3YO. He was undefeated in 6 starts as a 2YO including the Golden Slipper.” “Pierro also has a strong pedigree to back up his outstanding racing ability, being by Lonhro who himself was an outstanding racehorse, winning 25 Stakes races including 11 at Group 1, from 26 starts and has proven himself to be a very successful sire.” “I was keen on Pierro’s prospects as a sire, and in consultation with Mick Malone of Kitchwin Hills Stud I decided to send one of our better mares to him. November Flight has the conformation & the pedigree.

She has also consistently produced quality foals,” said Mapp. Mapp, who is very interested in pedigree analysis himself, explains the fortuitous mating of November Flight and Pierro. As with Pierro himself and also November Flight, there is not a single pedigree feature in this mating that I would highlight, rather there are many excellent features which have together produced another outstanding racehorse in Pierata, who now has the credentials to be a successful sire as well,” explained the seasoned breeder. There is a very interesting relationship between his foundation mare Light Of Peace and her predecessor, the famous First Lady. “Thoroughbred writer Jennifer Churchill wrote a very informative article about our and her family which was published in Country Life magazine in about January 2012.”

Everest Diaries | October 2019

“Before then, I had no idea that Light Of Peace, whom I purchased from Bart Cummings when he trained her daughter Clear Apollo for us, was directly descended from the imported mare First Lady. “First Lady was the dam of outstanding Australian Thoroughbred racehorse and sire, Grand Flaneur, who won 9 successive races including the AJC Derby, the VRC Derby, the Cox Plate, and the Melbourne Cup before retiring undefeated to stand at Hobartville Stud in the 1880/90’s. Amazing!” “What a coincidence! Almost 100 years later I purchased Light Of Peace, sent her to Bletchingly, and she produced Star Watch to win the 1988 Golden Slipper and himself become a successful sire,” concluded Mapp.

Grahame Mapp With November Flight

Pierata will be representing the interests of his new owner and slot holder Aquis Farms.

Grahame Mapp with his Group 1 winner and Australian steeple Star “Toulouse Lautrec”, who was a crowd favourite. bridal | september 2019

Everest Diaries | October 2019

TOM MAGNIER: FOURTEEN MILLION WITH JUST TEN SOVEREIGNS Coolmore Australia Principal Tom Magnier manages an expansive portfolio of expensive bloodstock and racehorses in Australia. As the son John & Susan Magnier with legendary Irish trainer & Coolmore’s founder Vincent O’Brien, he was always meant to have a horseman’s heart and business magnate’s mind.

The Everest Diaries talks to Magnier about their 2019 contender, Ten Sovereigns and much more. Q) What factors do you consider when choosing a horse for The Everest to represent Coolmore’s interests? A) Although there are a number of factors that need to be considered, ultimately, we are trying to find a horse capable of winning an incredibly competitive sprint race in a country that is famous for producing some of the fastest sprinters in the world. Secondly, we also use it as a way of promoting Coolmore stallions to a very broad audience, which can be beneficial to our loyal clients that breed their mares to our stallions. This year, in Ten Sovereigns we have a representative for our very exciting young stallion No Nay Never, who is currently standing his fourth season at Coolmore Australia.

He has made an outstanding start to his stud career in the northern Hemisphere, however his progeny are yet to hit the track in this part of the world. If Ten Sovereigns was to win, or run a good race in The Everest, it would be a great advantage to those who have supported him at Coolmore Australia in previous years.

Q) How has Coolmore benefited from being a ‘The Everest’ slot holder?

Q) What are your plans for Ten Sovereigns if he races in The Everest?

Coolmore is supportive of anything that promotes our sport to a broader audience and expands the reach of thoroughbred racing in Australia. We are unwavering in our support of The Everest as a slot holder, now and well into the future.

A) Ten Sovereigns will be trained for The Everest and any subsequent plans will be made in consultation with Aidan O’Brien and his team after the race. We have great faith in Aidan & his very experienced team. We will be guided by them as to the plan following the race. That being said, there are a number of options for him after The Everest which must come into consideration, including the Gr. 1 Manikato Stakes & the Gr. 1 VRC Sprint Classic, for which he holds entries in both.

A) The Everest has been an overwhelming success, increasing the profile of racing in Australia to a global audience and putting racing on the front pages of the newspaper.

Q) Now that most of the field is known, are there any concerns about any of the other contenders? A) It is a hugely competitive race and all the runners are there on merit, so all are major contenders.

Everest Diaries | October 2019

Q) Which would be the greatest sprint race you have witnessed and why? A) Two races that spring most readily to mind are Starspangledbanner’s win in the Gr.1 Golden Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot in 2010 and Merchant Navy’s win in the Gr.1 Diamond Jubilee Stakes, also at Royal Ascot 2018. The former’s performance to make-all and beat 23 rivals was incredible. From memory, over half of the field had won at least 1 Gr.1. In the case of Merchant Navy, he went to Royal Ascot as a very young horse and to beat a great field in the brilliant fashion that he did marked him down as a special horse.

Ten Sovereigns Wins July Cup / The Sun

Q) Given the fact that The Everest concept has caught on like wildfire, what do you make of the modernism, innovation and change at the heart of racing in Australia? A) The Everest looks to have captured the imagination of the general public, which is a hugely positive result. It is in the best long-term interests of the sport to continue to see the participant base grow and if concepts like The Everest can help this happen, then they are fantastic initiatives. Q) How would you predict the Southern Hemisphere will shape up in the next couple of decades as a center for racing?

A) Racing in Australia looks to have a very bright future. The best Australian horses can compete with the best anywhere in the world, as has been shown over the last decade in particular. Prizemoney is very strong and the spectacle of the best racing in Australia is as captivating a sporting spectacle as one will find. . The more people that are drawn into our wonderful sport, the better. I think these factors are important in continuing to attract investment in the Australian thoroughbred industry.

bridal | september 2019

Everest Diaries | October 2019

FEATURES

Shane McGrath/ Aquis Farm

Everest Diaries | October 2019

SHANE MCGRATH: PIERATA LEADS THE EVEREST PACK Whilst the owners of Aquis, the Fung family, have only been involved in the industry for a short while, they have been operating Aquis’ other business portfolios in Australia for 30-odd years. Shane McGrath’s responsibilities include taking the Aquis brand to the next stratosphere

Shane McGrath, CEO of Aquis Farm, talks to Everest Diaries about their choice of runner, their The Everest slot and Aquis’ future plan. Q) Pierata will be the first son of Pierro to be confirmed to stand at stud. Could you please tell us about Pierata and how you came to identify him as a great stallion prospect and purchase him? A) Pierata has been a horse on Aquis’ radar for some time now. As Pierro’s best sprinting-son, Pierata is the most successful racehorse to date by his exciting young sire, having won not only the Gr.1 All Aged Stakes in a fast time of 1:20.64, but he’s also captured a further five black type races, with over $3.6m in prizemoney earned. Q) What makes Pierata perfect for The Everest? A) The decision to race Pierata in the Aquis slot for this year’s The Everest was made after it was evident that the Gr.1 winner had continued to improve throughout his campaigns, making it clear that the best was still to come.

That judgement has since been vindicated with Pierata recording outstanding sectionals on his campaign return in the Gr.3 Concorde Stakes before stepping up to the 1100m of the Gr.2 The Shorts and defeating a field of Everest contenders, once again recording outstanding fast closing sectionals (33.31 for last 600m) when charging from off the pace.

Having since defeated the top three from the 2018 The Everest as well as a host of Gr.1 winners we feel Pierata has continued to improve and his stunning victory in the Gr.1 All Aged Stakes at Royal Randwick also highlights his true, elite level ability. Q) Pierata’s performance in The Shorts has proven his prowess. What are your plans for him?

Achieving a career best Timeform Rating of 126 in his last start win, Pierata has continued to thrive and improve throughout each and every campaign, with both his trainer and jockey feeling that he’s back this campaign bigger and better than ever.

A) Prior to retiring to Aquis Farm in 2020, the focus for Pierata will be on this year’s The Everest, with an international campaign also under significant consideration.

Q) Could you tell us why Pierata is best placed to win The Everest this year?

Q) The role of an The Everest slot holder, increased Aquis’ brand value and brand recognition globally. Would you agree with the statement and if yes, why?

A) Successful by almost three lengths in the 2018 Gr.3 Sydney Stakes in what is considered The Everest consolation final, Pierata won that race in a significantly better time than Redzel achieved when winning The Everest.

A) As an already established brand, Aquis wanted to increase our commitment within the industry.

Everest Diaries | October 2019

By using this opportunity, we were able to further create brand awareness and to reinforce that the investment of the Fung family is long term. As an outstanding platform to highlight world class sprinters, The Everest continues to feature the industry to the world, bringing racing to the forefront, a facet that is so important to the longevity of the industry. Q) Would Aquis consider getting involved in The Everest again as a slot holder? A) As an initial slot holder, Aquis plans to continue our commitment with The Everest as we see it as an outstanding concept. Having finished second in 2018 The Everest with Trapeze Artist, the hunger is there to go one better this time and we feel we have the best candidate.

Q) Do you expect to see The Everest's prize money continue to grow higher up? A) The Everest has quickly established itself as one of the standalone races on the global race calendar, independent of its purse value. Q) Aquis has been active in both high-profile international purchases and racing at the top level. Are there plans to expand racing operations? A) Mr Fung’s commitment to Aquis’ growth is evident in every facet of the business, but none more so than within the racing division of the organisation. Through the acquisition of outstanding stallion proposition, including Aquis’ Spill The Beans, Mr Fung’s neverending passion for growth is clear..

Aquis Stallion Parade, Tony Fung, Justin Fung & Shane McGrath/Sharon Lee Chapman

Q) The decade is almost over. What are your plans for Aquis by 2030? A) Firmly established within the global racing and breeding industry, we are extremely proud of our achievements and progress to date. With 14 stallions on the roster in addition to the most exciting stallion prospect in the country, Aquis’ continual commitment to growth within the market was highlighted earlier this year with the set-up of our Victorian farm at Seymour, adding another significant layer to servicing our clients While 2030 is over ten years away, the industry moves quickly and we need to continue to adapt to changes, ensuring that Aquis remains a market leader in the stallions we stand and in the racehorse that carry our silks on race day.

bridal | september 2019

Everest Diaries | October 2019

TURF FASHION Brooch: Entrancing Love by Wallace Chan, Hong Kong A stallion and his mare, swift and free, run towards an enchanting perido – a token of undying love and admiration. The creator’s playful mind juxtaposes the big and the small, and places a pair of miniature horses in the embrace of a maple leaf which is colored by diamonds and garnet.

GÁLA by Ameera in collaboration with Evelyn McDermott Millinery presenting horse racing inspired Spring-Summer'19 collection, (Dubai) White oversized shirt-dress with volants and a faintly visible floral pattern, made from lightweight Indian pure cotton. It can be styled with a belt.

Longines Boutique, Sydney The Conquest Classic skillfully combines modernity with the refinement that defines the brand. Elegant and sleek, Longines latest creation is both resolutely feminine and boldly contemporary.