On the eve of Mazu’s quest for a first Group 1 win in the Doomben 10,000, the emerging sprint star has been locked in for a start in the $15 million The Everest.
Slot holders The Star and Arrowfield Stud announced on Wednesday night that they had struck a deal with Mazu’s managing owners Michael and Chris Ward of Triple Crown Syndications, who in partnership with the three-year-old’s trainers Peter and Paul Snowden have already captured two Everests with Redzel.
Arrowfield Stud proprietor John Messara said while The Everest was still five months away, he felt he needed to strike quickly to secure the up-and-coming sprinter, who is a dominant favourite for Saturday’s Brisbane feature.
“While it’s generally a bit early to make a commitment for The Everest, I feel Mazu is a versatile young sprinter on a strong upward trajectory and we feared missing him by waiting any longer,” Messara said.
“It’s also an advantage that Chris and Michael Ward and Peter and Paul Snowden have already prepared Redzel to win two consecutive Everests, so they know what is required.”
Mazu is by Maurice, who stands at Arrowfield Stud, and Chris Ward says they feel that teaming with the Hunter Valley nursery is the right fit.
“Comparisons have already been drawn between Mazu and Redzel and both are by Arrowfield stallions so there is some synergy there,” Chris Ward said.
“To have our fourth Everest runner in the race’s six-year history is a massive thrill and we are hoping lightning can strike for a third time come October.”
Mazu is the third horse selected for a slot, joining Masked Crusader and Nature Strip.
He is on the second line of TAB fixed odds‘ Everest markets at $8 behind $4 favourite Nature Strip.