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Houtzen sizzles in Gold Coast trial win

Paul Joice - Monday August 21

One of the confirmed runners in Randwick's inaugural $10 million The Everest (1200m) scorched through a Gold Coast barrier trial on Monday.

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Houtzen is on track for a shot at The Everest. Photo: Darryl Sherer

Ridden by Jeff Lloyd, the Toby Edmonds-trained Houtzen led throughout to win the 1000m trial by 3-1/2 lengths in a time of 57.82 seconds on the good 4 course proper.

"The competition wasn't very strong but she was sharp and ran quick time," Edmonds said.

"Jeff was very happy with how she went and she had a good blow afterwards, as she usually does."

The three-year-old daughter of I Am Invincible won her first four starts, including the $2 million Magic Millions 2YO Classic, before suffering her first and only defeat in the Golden Slipper when a fading fifth behind She Will Reign.

Edmonds is planning to resume Houtzen in the Group II McEwen Stakes (1000m) at Moonee Valley on September 9.

Under weight-for-age conditions she will carry only 50kg, with Craig Williams booked to ride.

A second-up run in the September 29 Group I Moir Stakes (1000m) is an option with The Everest an anticipated third-up target.

Whilst regular hoop Lloyd is keen to make the 51kg for The Everest, a final decision on who partners Houtzen in the $10 million sprint will be made by connections closer to the race.

Houtzen, representing slot holder Aquis Farm in The Everest, is priced at $15 with Sportsbet for the October 14 contest.

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