Briasa fires warning shot for 2025 The Everest

Briasa ($2.25F) validated his early-confirmed Everest slot, sweeping home to capture the $1 million Group 2 Premiere Stakes and cement his credentials for the big one.

Under the guidance of the Hawkes team, the son of Smart Missile produced a lethal closing sprint to hold off rival Everest hope Jimmysstar ($2.90) by half a length, with Mazu ($19) plugging on into third, three lengths away. Private Harry again disappointed, weakening to finish fifth, 4-1/2 lengths from the winner.

Tyler Schiller, back in familiar silks, let the grey build into his work before unleashing, a pattern that points squarely to peak form ahead of the $20 million feature in two weeks.

“To give Tyler credit, he just flowed and he’s actually a joy to watch,” co-trainer Michael Hawkes said.

“The part I loved the most was when he stalked and he just kept him in a rhythm.

“He’s just got so much raw talent, he doesn’t know how good he is really.

“Tyler and I had discussions just before he got on the horse and I said just get him to the top of the rise and let him get down and then let him explode, if the race pans out that way.”

With Hong Kong’s Ka Ying Rising the talk of the town since landing for the Everest, Hawkes cautioned that travel form is no given.

“It’s not a one-horse race, it never has been,” Hawkes said.

“We’ve been lucky enough to have another grey horse (Chautauqua) we’ve travelled, and I know how hard it can be.

“So for Ka Ying Rising everything needs to go right, he’s in our backyard now.”

Schiller sees scope for an even higher ceiling.

“I think he just keeps learning that little bit more, he’s come back a lot more relaxed than last prep,” Schiller said.

“But I still think there’s more improvement, which is scary.”

In current markets, Briasa is a $11 third elect for the Everest, with Ka Ying Rising commanding $1.60 favouritism.

Thinking of a punt on the Premiere Stakes or the Everest? Check the best betting sites, popular betting apps and leading Aussie bookmakers first.