A start in the $13m The Everest is a growing possibility for Nicconi's rising star sprinter Nature Strip after confirmation one of the three remaining slot holders has made contact with connections.
Speaking on Melbourne Radio RSN on Sunday morning, trainer Darren Weir confirmed an approach has been made.
"In the last few days there has been an inquiry about Nature Strip," Weir said.
"I've left it to the owners, the people that have inquired have spoken to the owners and they're going to work something out in the next couple of weeks.
"Hopefully they can work something out and the horse can get a slot in the race."
Weir said Nature Strip has thrived since his six length win in the Listed SAJC Lightning Stakes last month .
"The horse is in unbelievable order," Weir said. "We were toying with the idea of not galloping him for a little while but Jarrod (McLean) said we're going to have to do something with him on Monday because the horse is just too well in himself.
"It's a good sign going forward and hopefully the owners can work out a deal to get it done and get in the race."
Slot holders yet to confirm their runners are the Australian Turf Club, Greg Ingham's GPI Racing and Max Whitby and Neil Werrett who had signed up Menari but now without a horse after the son of Snitzel suffered a an injury towards the end of last month.
