Hayes happy to test Ka Ying Rising on rain-affected Randwick track

By the Editorial Team · Monday, October 5, 2026

Trainer David Hayes expressed confidence that Ka Ying Rising will handle the rain-affected track during Sunday’s 1,000-meter trial at Randwick ahead of his defense of The Everest title on October 17. The trial serves as a final preparation on a wet surface, with Ka Ying Rising remaining the favorite despite rising competition from Tempted, who recently won the Group Two Premiere Stakes.

Trainer David Hayes expressed confidence that Ka Ying Rising, the world’s highest-rated racehorse, will not be hindered by a rain-affected track as the horse prepares for an important trial at Randwick Racecourse on Sunday. Despite heavy rain in Sydney on Saturday, the Randwick surface is expected to remain wet but serviceable for the 1,000-meter trial, which will serve as a final tune-up before Ka Ying Rising defends his Group One The Everest title on October 17.

Hayes dismissed concerns that Ka Ying Rising might struggle on softer ground, a point that jockey Zac Purton previously noted as a potential challenge on race day. The trainer recalled the horse’s earlier career, including a trial on a wet provincial track in Australia before being sold, and recent workouts in Sydney performed on rain-soaked surfaces. Hayes emphasized that the horse had consistently delivered strong times despite wet conditions and expects no issues on Sunday.

“He’s handled it before and he’ll handle it again,” Hayes said, adding that Saturday’s weather presented an opportunity to put to rest doubts about the horse’s ability on wet terrain. He also noted that Ka Ying Rising’s demeanor and performance in the upcoming trial should show marked improvement compared to last year, when pre-trial behavior and a third-place finish raised questions about his readiness.

The trial's primary purpose is to provide Ka Ying Rising with a "dress rehearsal" ahead of The Everest without pushing him to full exertion, Hayes said. The trial is scheduled for 6 a.m. Hong Kong time and will be available for viewing on the Jockey Club’s digital platforms.

Ka Ying Rising currently stands as the $1.34 favorite in overseas betting markets for The Everest. Meanwhile, Tempted, last year’s runner-up who won the Group Two Premiere Stakes (1,200m) at Randwick on Saturday, has seen her odds improve from $8 to $6. Tempted remains unbeaten in five starts since finishing second to Ka Ying Rising in last year’s race.

Hayes acknowledged the merit of Tempted’s recent dominant performance but noted that the field for the Premiere Stakes significantly differed from those expected to contest The Everest this year. He highlighted the progression of Ka Ying Rising, who has broken five track records since arriving in Australia and is now rated the highest sprinter worldwide.

Ciaron Maher, trainer of Tempted, praised his horse’s chances following her convincing win. While expressing respect for Ka Ying Rising’s exceptional ability, Maher called his own runner a serious contender. “Ka Ying is a freak of nature and looks fantastic, but I’m rapt with Tempted,” he said.

Ahead of his flight to Sydney, Hayes celebrated a successful day at Hong Kong’s Sha Tin Racecourse, securing two wins. Kol, ridden by Zac Purton, won the Class Four Kwok Shui Handicap (1,200m) for his first victory in six starts. Meanwhile, All Round Winner, under Harry Bentley, claimed the Class Three Shek Wai Kok Handicap (1,650m) to notch his first all-weather triumph.

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