Ka Ying Rising lived up to his billing as the world’s highest-rated racehorse, storming to a commanding victory in The Everest (1200m) at Randwick on Saturday.

The Hong Kong superstar, trained by David Hayes, silenced critics after a turbulent build-up featuring injury rumours and a trial defeat, powering home to the delight of more than 50,000 fans.

“It has been the biggest build up to a race that I have ever been involved in,” winning jockey Zac Purton said.
“He is a special horse… this is his moment and his time.”

Purton, Hong Kong’s all-time winningest jockey, said the triumph was “probably the pinnacle of my career.”

Hayes, who trained Better Loosen Up to win the Japan Cup in 1990, called it “the biggest thrill of my life,” adding: “He is a genuine superstar and we’ll be back next year if invited.”

Ka Ying Rising ($2) surged clear to beat Tempted ($16) by 1¼ lengths, with Jimmysstar ($13) third, sealing his 14th straight win.

For full results and betting markets on The Everest, visit Australia’s top betting sites.