By Ray Hickson
Golden Slipper placegetter Tulip will represent Coolmore in the $10 million The Everest making her the third three-year-old filly to tackle the world’s richest turf race.
Coolmore Australia principal Tom Magnier said co-trainer David Hayes was instrumental in the decision to award the classy filly their slot.
Tulip will also be the third runner for the David and Ben Hayes and Tom Dabernig stable who have Group 1 winners Vega Magic and Redkirk Warrior in the final 12.
"David has been very persuasive with his view that Tulip should take her place in the field,'' Magnier said.
"He is adamant that speed is her forte, evidenced by her recent work which has reportedly been nothing short of exceptional.
"It's going to be a hugely competitive race, a great spectacle and we are delighted to be a part of it.''
Tulip joins Slipper winner She Will Reign and Magic Millions winner Houtzen as the only three-year-olds in The Everest.
“She is a brilliantly talented filly and more than capable of mixing it with my Group 1 sprinters so she deserves her place,’’ David Hayes said.
Tulip has a win over subsequent Group 1 winner Alizee from the autumn and her latest run was a fourth behind that filly in the Group 2 Tea Rose Stakes (1400m) on Setpember 16 at Randwick.
She was fourth across the line in the Golden Slipper but was promoted to third, ahead of gun colt Menari, on protest.
Tulip is by Golden Slipper winner Pierro, who was last season’s champion first season sire for Coolmore.
TAB has Tulip rated a $51 chance in The Everest.