Trainer Wesley Ward could participate in this year's inaugural The Everest at Randwick on Oct. 14, but not likely with Lady Aurelia (Scat Daddy). The trainer told Sky Racing on Thursday that while that 'TDN Rising Star' and G1 King's Stand S. winner could target Australia's A$10-million race next year at four, he could seek to run G1 Commonwealth Cup fourth Bound For Nowhere (The Factor) this year. The lightly raced 3-year-old had won both career starts in the U.S. earlier this year before finishing 4 1/4 lengths behind fellow Everest aspirant Caravaggio (Scat Daddy) at Royal Ascot last week.
“[Lady Aurelia has] a lot of places to go yet, hopefully she'll be bigger and stronger at four,” said Ward of last year's Cartier champion 2-year-old filly. “The decision lies with the owners, but the filly's just three. It's something I'd love to do, but maybe as a 4-year-old. We'll build her up for the Nunthorpe and hopefully she can win again. From there it's a nice break to the Breeders' Cup.”
Of his own silkbearer Bound For Nowhere, Ward added, “He's a beautiful horse who I think will keep improving. David Flores, who replaced Frankie [Dettori in the Commonwealth Cup] said he should have been closer in the race. He said he broke sharp and could have been in front. My instructions were to take back and follow the speed. When he went to make his move Caravaggio made his and hindered him and when he got out he was coming. I think he's got a big future.”
Bound For Nowhere is expected to take in the G1 Prix Maurice de Gheest at Deauville on Aug. 6, and Ward said his Everest participation would hinge on that performance. Ward would also have to secure a slot in the sold-out Everest lineup.
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