The John, Michael and Wayne Hawkes-prepared Masked Crusader (Toronado {Ire}) has gained a berth in $15 million The TAB Everest.
He has gained the seal of approval from slotholders Max Whitby and Neil Werrett, who is part of the ownership group of the gifted 4-year-old who races in the colours of Rupert Legh.
"It was all signed off this morning," Legh told Racing.com on Friday. "You never take it for granted, having a horse in The Everest.
“He is a definite live chance and you have to be appreciative that you have the horse and that people want the horse.
“He is a definite live chance (in The Everest) and you have to be appreciative that you have the horse (Masked Crusader) and that people want the horse." - Rupert Legh
"It (having Werrett holding a slot) did complicate it because there were other people wanting Masked Crusader for their slot as well. But at the end of the day the right decision was made to support the owners.
"But at the same time, we respected and appreciated the fact other people wanted the horse."
Rupert Legh | Image courtesy of Bronwen Healy
Masked Crusader has won five of his 11 starts, including the G1 William Reid S. at Moonee Valley last month and at his most recent appearance was third in the G1 TJ Smith S.
He will attempt to add to his record when he steps out in the G1 All Aged S. at Randwick on Saturday.
Masked Crusader is the second sprinter in the field after trainer Chris Waller gave his nod to multiple Group 1 winner Nature Strip (Nicconi) earlier this week.
Nature Strip is the current $4.50 TAB favourite for the October 16 race ahead of Classique Legend (Not A Single Doubt) at $6 with Masked Crusader on the third line at $8.
