Everest contender Eduardo is like that kid in the school playground who can run faster than everyone else and knows it.
The horse has been walking around the stables of trainer Joe Pride with a Mick Jagger swagger, ahead of his date with destiny in Saturday’s $15 million The Everest.
After winning his first two starts for the stable, Eduardo finished second to Classique Legend in The Shorts but Pride is certain his horse didn’t see the victor flashing down the outside.
Market 💰: View the Odds for the Everest
Eduardo appears to consider himself on a winning streak.
“I know he got beaten in The Shorts but I don’t think Eduardo knew anything about that because he fought off all his challengers and the last bit that grey horse bloused him,” Pride said.
“He has just got this winning mentality.”
Eduardo was also scintillating in a recent barrier trial, demolishing his rivals by six-and-a-half lengths.
And didn’t he enjoy it.
“In his trial the other day, he wasn’t content with beating those horses. He wanted to really rub their faces in it,” Pride said.
“Even past the post he was like, ‘woo hoo, look at me out here’.
“That’s his personality. He just ups the tempo with everything you do.
“He is not content unless he’s doing everything quickly. But he can back it up so that’s alright.”
Eduardo will be out to back it up on the big stage when he takes his place in the richest turf race in the world.
He will represent the miEverest slot, which is owned by miRunners and funded by a multitude of ordinary people who have paid a small amount for a micro share.
While there are a lot of parties to please, Pride isn’t feeling any pressure.
“I look at weight of expectation more when horses are red hot favourites,” he said.
“In my head, having a bunch of micro slot owners, I’m comfortable with that.
“It’s great. They’re having a fantastic ride, they will enjoy the day. Let’s hope we can deliver a performance that is up to everybody’s expectations.”
If Eduardo’s confidence is anything to go by, they might be in for a treat.
