Harry’s owners excited to take on Rising HK star in 2025 The Everest

The early Everest chatter is heating up as Private Harry, an undefeated sprinting sensation, prepares to face Hong Kong speedster Ka Ying Rising in what promises to be a high-octane showdown in the $20 million Everest.

Ka Ying Rising has been confirmed as a runner for the Hong Kong Jockey Club following a two-year lease deal with the Australian Turf Club, officially placing the superstar sprinter in the October 18 field.

With 13 wins from 15 starts, Ka Ying Rising leads the market at $1.80, while Private Harry, fresh from a dominant victory in the Group 1 The Galaxy earlier this year, is rated a $6 second favourite.

Private Harry’s part-owner Sean Driver is bullish about the colt’s trajectory since his autumn heroics.

“All I will say is they’re going to have to be good to beat him,” Driver said.

“He’s bulked up massively, growing by more than an inch and packing on 65 to 80 kilos. It’s all muscle. He’s just turned three and still improving.”

The Nathan Doyle-trained galloper has returned to work and is expected to resume in The Shorts, followed by the Premiere Stakes as stepping stones to The Everest.

Despite his sluggish trackwork, Private Harry’s race-day performances have left no doubts.

“If you judged him by his gallops, you’d worry,” said Driver. “But he’s a race-day weapon. We’ll build him slowly with a couple of trials and an exhibition gallop before first-up.”

Ka Ying Rising joins Private Harry and Briasa as the first trio of confirmed runners in the world’s richest turf race.

ATC’s racing chief Nevesh Ramdhani was delighted to bring a global dimension to Sydney's spring carnival.

“The addition of Ka Ying Rising enhances not just The Everest, but the entire Everest Carnival,” Ramdhani said.

Post-Everest, Ka Ying Rising will remain in Australia to contest the Russell Balding Stakes.

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