Briasa’s Everest slot looks well justified after the Hawkes-trained sprinter produced a powerful finish to capture the $1 million Group 2 Premiere Stakes at Randwick.
The $2.25 favourite, ridden by regular jockey Tyler Schiller, unleashed a devastating burst to defeat fellow Everest hopeful Jimmysstar ($2.90) by half a length, with Mazu ($19) another three lengths away in third.
“To give Tyler credit, he just flowed and he’s actually a joy to watch,” co-trainer Michael Hawkes said. “He’s just got so much raw talent, he doesn’t know how good he is really.”
Hawkes also cautioned against underestimating the challenge for Hong Kong raider Ka Ying Rising, adding: “It’s not a one-horse race, it never has been.”
Schiller was equally impressed, saying Briasa “just keeps learning that little bit more” and that “there’s more improvement, which is scary.”
Briasa is now a firm $11 chance for the $20 million Everest.