Ka Ying Rising, the world’s highest-rated sprinter and winner of 21 consecutive races, arrived safely in Sydney on Monday as preparations begin for the defense of his title in next month’s Group One The Everest at Randwick Racecourse. The 1,200-meter event, set for October 17, is the world’s richest turf race with a prize pool of A$20 million (HK$111.8 million).

Trained by David Hayes, Ka Ying Rising flew out of Hong Kong on Sunday night and is currently undergoing a mandatory two-week quarantine period at Canterbury Racecourse. Hayes ensured the horse’s arrival went smoothly by bringing along a full support team, including a farrier, veterinarian, groom, track rider, and assistant trainer. Stablemate Ka Ying Glory, recently retired due to a tendon injury, accompanied Ka Ying Rising to Australia as a companion.

Hayes reported that Ka Ying Rising settled well after the flight and is following a gradual training regime. "He had a couple of easy days before flying, and he’ll be straight into it," Hayes said. The horse is expected to begin light exercise with walking and trotting before progressing to cantering and more intensive training.

This campaign mirrors last year’s successful buildup, when Ka Ying Rising made history as the first overseas horse to win The Everest. The nine-time Group One winner is scheduled to trial at Randwick on October 6, with renowned jockey Zac Purton set to ride him once again.

Unlike last year, when Ka Ying Rising was arguably not at his peak fitness, Hayes has increased the horse’s training load in preparation for this year’s race. The horse demonstrated his readiness by breaking his own track record in the Group Three HKSAR Chief Executive’s Cup at Sha Tin on September 6, beating the previous time by nearly a full second following a commanding performance. Ka Ying Rising also completed a strong 1,200-meter gallop at Sha Tin shortly before his departure.

The Chief Executive’s Cup victory elevated Ka Ying Rising’s rating to 135 in the Longines World’s Best Racehorse Rankings, a mark unprecedented for a sprinter. This rating surpasses the previous sprinter record held by Black Caviar (132) and ranks equal fourth highest overall, behind legendary horses Frankel (140 and 136), Flightline (140), and Sea The Stars (136).

Currently, Ka Ying Rising holds the Hong Kong Jockey Club slot for The Everest and is among only two confirmed runners. He is the $1.30 favorite on overseas betting markets, ahead of three-year-old Guest House and last year’s third-place finisher Tempted, both at $9.

In related news, Australian jockey Hugh Bowman is weighing medical options for a labral tear in his right hip. He could face four to five months off if he chooses surgery, or a shorter recovery period of two to three weeks with a cortisone injection. Bowman said he will make a decision in the coming days.