Grafterburners triumphs in Sydney Stakes after declining Everest start

Kelly Schweida, the trainer, has disclosed that he declined an offer for an Everest slot for Grafterburners to focus on its $2 million consolation race. This decision has proven to be a masterstroke, as the colt has claimed a thrilling Sydney Stakes victory at Randwick.

The Queensland trainer felt his charge would be competing for a lesser prize against elite gallopers such as Hong Kong champion Ka Ying Rising and the tenacious mare Tempted in the $20 million feature, and would be better placed on the undercard.

"We got offered a slot, to be honest, but we thought… the good horse (Ka Ying Rising) would win it, Tempted had beaten us fair and square a couple of times, so we elected to go this way with the prizemoney, and we didn't have to share it with anyone," Schweida said.

Grafterburners ($6.50) was outstanding in a strong Sydney Stakes (1200m) field. Guided by Nash Rawiller, the colt surged to the lead in the straight, finishing a length and a half ahead of the favourite Marhoona ($5.50), with Overpass ($7) securing third place another half-neck adrift.

Having missed a Group 1 opportunity in the autumn when scratched from The Galaxy (1100m) at the barriers, Schweida is now keen to campaign Grafterburners in Melbourne for the Champions Sprint (1200m) at Flemington next month.

"Really good effort, and if he pulls up all right, I wouldn't mind having a crack at that race in Melbourne in a few weeks," Schweida said.

"He needs a Group One, being a colt. That race last year was The Galaxy and he had a little hissy-fit (when scratched at the barriers). That was his Group One that we thought got away from us."

"But he showed today what he's capable of doing, and they were pretty good horses there today and he was strong through the line."

Rawiller indicated that Grafterburners had the race won comfortably a significant distance from the finish.

"What a beautiful horse," Rawiller said.

"He got to show what he is made of. We were curled up there and let go with one run. He was awesome, really."

This victory in the Sydney Stakes is a testament to Grafterburners' capabilities and sets him up for a potential Group 1 campaign in Melbourne.

Following this impressive Sydney Stakes win, Grafterburners is now being considered for top-tier races. You can find the best online bookmakers for all the upcoming action.