Two-time G1 TJ Smith S. placegetter Fell Swoop (Aus) (Not A Single Doubt {Aus}) has been named as the Inglis slot representative for the inaugural A$10-million The Everest, which will be the world's richest-ever turf race when contested at Randwick on Oct. 14. The 5-year-old, trained by Matt Dale, is five times Group 1 placed, his other near misses at the top level coming in the Oakleigh Plate, the Darley Classic and the Manikato S.
“We opened up expressions of interest for the Inglis slot back in March and received significant feedback from prospective owners, so this certainly wasn't an easy decision,” said Inglis's Managing Director Mark Webster. “In Fell Swoop we believe we have a genuine winning chance trained by one of Australia's best young trainers in Matt Dale and a horse who is proven as a legitimate Group 1 performer. To have finished in the minor placings in the last two editions of the G1 TJ Smith S. at Randwick behind Chautauqua–as well as a further three Group 1 placings throughout his career to date–Fell Swoop is undoubtedly one of the best-credentialed runners in the race. I know Matt will present the horse in outstanding order on the day and we wish him and the connections all the very best.”
Dale added, “It's a very exciting concept and it's unbelievable to be a part of it in year one with a horse like Fell Swoop,” the trainer said. “We're privileged to join forces with Inglis to secure an Everest slot in the inaugural running of the race.”
“The horse spelled really well in Queensland and has now entered pre-training at Aquagait,” he continued. “He'll come back into the stables in a couple of weeks and then it's all systems go toward The Everest.”
The Everest is modeled after The Stronach Group's G1 Pegasus World Cup concept. The 12 starting spots in the race were sold for A$600,000 apiece, with the slot holders free to partner, lease or sell their slot on their own terms.
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