Written by Trent Masenhelder
Cover image courtesy of Western Racepix
Having run sixth behind Giga Kick (Scissor Kick) in last year’s The Everest, talented speedster Overpass (Vancouver) will return to Randwick for a second tilt at the $20 million sprint feature on October 14.
Overpass’ place in the field was confirmed on Thursday, with the Australian Turf Club (ATC) and Ram Racing securing the Group 2 winner for their slot.
The Bjorn Baker-trained gelding has been a great money-spinner for his connections during his 23-start career, notching six wins and five placings, for earnings north of $1.1 million.
Overpass caused an upset victory in the inaugural running of The Quokka at Ascot in April, holding off the fast-finishing Amelia’s Jewel (Siyouni {Fr}). Overpass represented the Rockingham-based RAM Racing in The Quokka
The 5-year-old is raced by Darby Racing and a large group of owners. Darby racing and Will Johnson Bloodstock (FBAA) paid $75,000 for Overpass from the Corumbene Stud at the 2020 Inglis Australian Easter Yearling Sale (Round 2).
“It’s great to be back, especially teaming up with the old band in RAM Racing from WA. They’re great fellas and it’s really exciting for all of the owners,” Scott Darby of Darby Racing told The Thoroughbred Report.
“Ram racing was quite instrumental in getting Overpass over to Perth for The Quokka, they really pushed hard. We weren’t overly keen early on with the travel and the like. They’re a very passionate group and a great bunch of guys.
Overpass as a yearling | Image courtesy of Inglis
“Word came probably six weeks ago that they were interested in buying a slot or buying into a slot, then one thing led to another. The only horse they wanted was Overpass.
“And it’s a great honour to partner with the Australian Turf Club.”
ATC Chairman Peter McGauran was delighted to further extend The Everest to WA fans through RAM Racing.
“This partnership brings a wider national perspective and audience to The TAB Everest and RAM Racing’s enthusiasm for being a part of the race is significant,’’ McGauran said.
“We are also delighted to join with Overpass, our own Warwick Farm trainer Bjorn Baker, and Darby Racing, who have been long and loyal supporters of Sydney racing.”
“We are also delighted to join with Overpass, our own Warwick Farm trainer Bjorn Baker, and Darby Racing, who have been long and loyal supporters of Sydney racing.” - Peter McGauran
RAM Racing CEO Adam Fletcher said: “There is no more exciting race in the world to be involved in than the TAB Everest. I’m delighted to be able to join with the Australian Turf Club.
“We are huge fans of Overpass and with the ATC and Darby Racing will be cheering the house down at the world-famous Royal Randwick on October 14.’’
“We are huge fans of Overpass and with the ATC and Darby Racing will be cheering the house down at the world-famous Royal Randwick on October 14.’’ - Adam Fletcher
Overpass has had one run this prep, finishing a close second behind Private Eye (Al Maher) in the G2 The Shorts at Randwick on September 16.
Darby was thrilled with that performance and confirmed the star sprinter will head straight to the $20 million race without another run.
“It was disappointing he got beaten, but he ran out of his skin,” he said.
“Each preparation he’s just got that better each time. We gelded him, we’re keeping him fresh and on-pace.
“The first two runs of his campaign are his best, so he won’t have another run. He will probably have a little trial in between.
“I think if you put your realist hat on, he’s a good top-four hope.”
Darby said Joshua Parr will ride Overpass in The Everest, assuming the jockey is fit. Parr has been ruled out from riding at Saturday’s G1 Golden Rose meeting, after sustaining injuries on Wednesday when falling from his mount, Ithadtobezou (Zoustar), on the way to the start of Race 6 at Warwick Farm.
