Ka Ying Rising draws gate 11 for The Everest

Defending champion Ka Ying Rising drew gate 11 of 12 for Saturday’s The Everest at Randwick. Trainer David Hayes said the wide starting position concerned him less than the prospect of a heavily rain-affected track.

The draw took place in Sydney on Oct. 13. The 1,200-metre race carries A$20 million in prize money, and Ka Ying Rising will attempt a 22nd consecutive victory.

Hayes said the horse could move across from the outside and either lead or settle behind the leaders, depending on the pace. He considered being trapped inside after a slow start a greater tactical concern than the wide gate.

The Hong Kong Jockey Club confirmed the draw and said Ka Ying Rising would be among the last horses loaded under the Australian starting procedure. The champion won last year’s race from gate seven.

Rain disrupted the draw broadcast at Luna Park and moved interviews indoors. Hayes remained comfortable with slower going but said very heavy conditions would be more uncertain. His assessment is a pre-race judgment, rather than a forecast of the result.

Tempted, last year’s runner-up, drew the inside gate. The new draw adds confirmed starting positions to preparations previously focused on Ka Ying Rising’s trial performance.