The 2025 Everest: Why pre-race favourite Ka Ying Rising is ‘hopeless’ according to Australia’s most fearless punter Ben Scarf

Royal Randwick is the place to be in Sydney on Saturday when The Everest will be run and won – and according to many experts, Hong Kong-based sprinting superstar Ka Ying Rising will blitz the 12-strong field.

But Australian racing identity Ben Scarf has a different view.

‘Ka Ying Rising is hopeless and couldn’t hold a candle to Joliestar,’ he told the Daily Mail this week.

‘Anything even close to odds on for the favourite is daylight robbery.

‘In fact, I look forward to collecting my $35,000 Joliestar (winning) ticket from the lovely ladies down at the TAB.’

They are fighting words from Scarf given Ka Ying Rising has won 14 of his 16 career starts.

Hong Kong sprinter Ka Ying Rising is the pre-race favourite, and has been heavily backed by punters into $1.70

A capacity crowd is tipped at Royal Randwick, with The Everest offering a staggering $20million in prizemoney 

He also happens to be trained by David Hayes, who knows a thing or two about winning on the ultimate stage.

What might pan out for Scarf is the fact foreign starters have a woeful record in the coveted Group 1 race – which is worth a staggering $20million in prizemoney – dating back to 2017.

And with champion jockey James McDonald on board Joliestar, Hayes will no doubt be nervous.

Even more so given the winner takes home $7million, with second ‘only’ receiving $2.9million.

Scarf confirmed to the Daily Mail he will be trackside in Sydney’s east – and had some advice for regular or novice punters.

‘Bet with on-track bookmakers to keep the game alive,’ he urged.

When quizzed on whether The Everest could eventually eclipse the Melbourne Cup in terms of popularity and prestige in Australia, Scarf’s answer was succinct.

‘Yes, 100 per cent,’ he said. ‘Look what Peter V’landys has done for the sport.

‘If you are reading this Sir Peter, please hire me.’ 

What time is The Everest on?

Saturday, October 18 at 4:15pm AEDT.

Where can I watch it on TV?

Coverage is live on Channel 7, or Sky Racing.

Dress code at Royal Randwick

With a capacity crowd anticipated, dress to impress. In the general admission section semi-casual attire is applicable – but it is a very different story in the member areas.

The 2025 Everest: the final field

 

*Group 1 race over 1200m – $20 million prizemoney, Royal Randwick, 4.15pm AEDT October 18

1. Ka Ying Rising (barrier 7)

Jockey: Zac Purton Trainer: David Hayes 

Best Odds: $1.75

2. Briasa (barrier 10)

Jockey: Tyler Schiller Trainer: Michael, Wayne & John Hawkes 

Best Odds: $15

3. Overpass (barrier 9)

Jockey: Joshua Parr Trainer: Bjorn Baker 

Best Odds: $51

4. Jimmysstar (barrier 11)

Jockey: Ethan Brown Trainer: Ciaron Maher 

Best Odds: $12

5. War Machine (barrier 4)

Jockey: Tim Clark Trainer: Ben, Will & JD Hayes 

Best Odds: $10

6. Mazu (barrier 2)

Jockey: Jason Collett Trainer: Joseph Pride 

Best Odds: $126

A $7.00 chance, Joliestar is trained by Chris Waller and has won three previous Group 1 races (pictured, with champion jockey James McDonald on board)

In the general admission section at Randwick, semi-casual attire is applicable (pictured, friends trackside recently)

7. Jedibeel (barrier 8)

Jockey: Kerrin McEvoy Trainer: Brad Widdup 

Best Odds: $151

8. Angel Capital (barrier 3)

Jockey: Ben Melham Trainer : Chris Waller 

Best Odds: $26

9. Joliestar (barrier 5)

Jockey: James McDonald Trainer: Chris Waller 

Best Odds: $7.00

10. Lady Shenandoah (barrier 6)

Jockey: Damian Lane Trainer: Chris Waller 

Best Odds: $15

11. Magic Time (barrier 12)

Jockey: Michael Dee Trainer: Grahame Begg 

Best Odds: $81

12. Tempted (barrier 1)

Jockey: Craig Williams Trainer: Ciaron Maher 

Best Odds: $16

Source: Justhorseracing.com.au