Connections have locked in a rider for star sprinter Chautauqua in next month's $10 million The Everest at Randwick.
Part-owner Rupert Legh told the Herald-Sun that Brenton Avdulla has won the coveted ride and would also pilot Chautauqua when he resumes in The Shorts (1100m) at Randwick on September 16.
"Happy to have Brenton on. He's familiar with the horse, having been on him at two recent trials, and he seemed the obvious choice,'' Legh said.
The October 14 date of the Everest has proven problematic for Chautauqua's trainers Hawkes Racing and the gelding's owners because the Hong Kong Jockey Club meeting on that date rules out Sydney rider Tommy Berry while Melbourne jockey Dwayne Dunn will be in action at the Caulfield Guineas meeting.
Dunn will be aboard Caulfield Guineas favourite Royal Symphony, who is part-owned by his wife Amanda, which required the booking of another rider.
Chautauqua is the $4.80 favourite in Sportsbet's latest Everest market ahead of Memsie Stakes winner Vega Magic at $5 and She Will Reign at $6.50.
