Universally respected racing analyst Emma Freedman is set to star on Seven’s coverage of the $20 million TAB Everest (1200m) on Saturday and is predicting history will be made with a new first for the race.
Freedman, part of one of Australia’s most famous racing families, knows what it takes to win such a prestigious race being the daughter of Hall of Fame trainer Lee Freedman.
She’s backing Sunshine In Paris ($9,50) to have what it takes to climb Everest to become the first mare to win and also make Annabel Neasham the first female trainer to win the race.
“She’s been set for this race, she’s had five weeks between runs and races well fresh,” Freedman said on Thursday.
“I went to see her this morning and she’s absolutely bouncing out of her skin.”
Freedman says WA-owned Bella Nipotina, a $8.50 hope, will be a redoubtable adversary.
“She’s drawn wide, but she’s been awesome at her first two runs,” Freedman said.
“We call her the ‘Iron Lady’ because she’s been everywhere and turns up each and every campaign.”
Later in the day, WA will pin their hopes in Amelia’s Jewel in the Group 1 King Charles III Stakes (1600m), though facing a tough task as a $16 chance.
“I’d only seen her in the yard previously, but when I saw her this morning, she’s a really beautiful, neat mare,” Freedman said.
“Her two runs have been good, but I thought she was entitled to do more last time.
“She’ll have to be on her A-Game+++ to win, though she is a Group 1 winner.
“It is interesting that she’s beaten Pride Of Jenni before, but Pride Of Jenni is a different horse now that she’s running all her rivals ragged.
“Amelia’s Jewel has probably stayed in the same form she displayed back then, not that there’s anything wrong with that.”
The Everest will share leading honours with the $5 million Sportsbet Caulfield Cup (2400m) this weekend and though the Cup is race close to the Freedman family’s heart, Emma has thrown her support behind the innovation of the new slot race.
“I’m a big fan of The Everest,” she said.
“I was initially sceptical, but I think the slot race gives people from every walk of life a chance at big money.
“It’s the best sprint race in Australia and hopefully it can be internationally ratified as a Group 1 in the next 24 hours.”
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