The Everest field starts to take shape

Image: Bruno Cannatelli

The Inferno has been named as a contender for The Everest

Former Singapore sprinter The Inferno is the latest galloper to gain a berth in The Everest after a deal was struck with slot holder James Harron.

The Inferno earned his spot with his second placing to Wild Ruler in the Group 1 Moir Stakes (1000m) at The Valley on Friday night.

With the $15 million The Everest (1200m) to be run at Randwick on October 17, trainer Cliff Brown said the timing was ideal.

“It’s exciting, but we’ve got to get him there first,” Brown said.

“The three weeks between runs is perfect for him.”

After winning eight of his nine starts in Singapore including their biggest sprint, the Lion City Cup, The Inferno came to Melbourne with Brown after the trainer called time on his career there after 12 years.

After a disappointing fading sixth in the Listed Regal Roller Stakes (1200m) at Caulfield last month, The Inferno showed his class with victory in the Group 2 McEwen Stakes (1000m) at The Valley on September 4.

Brown said The Inferno trotted up cleanly on Saturday morning after leaving a little bit of feed overnight.

“He didn’t get bedded down until 10.30, 11 o’clock last night but he was lovely and bright this morning,” Brown said.

“He trotted up for the vet, was beautiful and clean in his action and had a pick for about half-an-hour.”

Brown said The Inferno would head to one-time Singapore trainer Michael Freedman at Randwick while the team was still to organise a jockey for the sprinter.

And Brown is not concerned with what track condition is served up on Everest day.

The Inferno won on a Slow 6 in the McEwen after Brown admitted to concerns as to whether he would handle that type of ground.