Today’s inaugural $10 million The TAB Everest has lived up to its lofty expectations with a record-breaking crowd in attendance and a massive television audience worldwide.
Royal Randwick's huge crowd of 33,512 witnessed an epic battle in the straight with the Peter and Paul Snowden-trained Redzel [Kerrin McEvoy, $8.50] proving too strong for favourite Vega Magic [Craig Williams, $4.80].
A huge contingent that is part of the large syndicate of Redzel owners threw wild celebrations as the five-year-old sailed past the post just under a length in front.
“The [TAB] Everest has captured the imagination of the racing world like no other sporting event in Sydney,” said Racing NSW Chief Executive, Peter V’landys AM.
“The Championships is now firmly established in the autumn and has been highly successful, but The Everest has gone to another level attracting world attention in a matter of months.
“Board members of both Racing NSW and the Australian Turf Club should be congratulated for embracing the concept and driving it with great enthusiasm.”
Australian Turf Club CEO, Darren Pearce, said: “The TAB Everest has announced itself as the new major in Australian racing. We are thrilled with the crowd and the atmosphere at the track today, alongside such world class racing.
“We look forward to continuing to build The TAB Everest Day as a signature racing and entertainment event for Sydney, watched around the world.”
TAB’s Chief Operating Officer-Wagering, Adam Rytenskild, said: “This has been a fantastic day and The TAB Everest has captured the imagination of Sydney and the nation.
“Interest in the race has been huge and the turnover and has exceeded our expectations – this race is well and truly here to stay.”
View the full results with race replays for Royal Randwick here