Keeping it simple key to Masked Crusader’s Everest tilt, says Berry

TOMMY Berry has spent hours poring over the form, studying the race patterns of his rivals and visualising various scenarios.

But the more he mulled over how to ride Masked Crusader in the $15m The TAB Everest at Royal Randwick on Saturday, the more he realised he just needed a simple tactical plan.

“I’ve just got to do my best to make sure Masked Crusader steps away from the barriers better than he has and gets into his stride quickly,’’ Berry said.

“Classique Legend hasn’t drawn too far away from me and he will probably settle midfield and I’d love to get on his back.

“If it works out like this, then I’m sure Masked Crusader is going to run well.’’

Masked Crusader, a one-time Everest favourite, has drifted to $10 as big money has come for $3.60 favourite Nature Strip.

But the Team Hawkes-trained Masked Crusader was outstanding winning the Premiere Stakes two weeks ago — and Berry maintains the gelding can improve.

“I always expected there would be a little bit of improvement in the horse out of the Premiere, but I was surprised how much there was,’’ Berry said.

“He had a good blow after the race, so I guess having a slot early meant the Hawkes team didn’t need to have him ‘screwed’ down for the early lead-ups and have aimed him at the ‘grand final’.

“They are very good at getting their horses to peak on the right day. He is going to be 100 per cent for this race.’’

He said the build-up to the race seems to get bigger every year, even though Sydney jockeys are confined to their Covid “bubble”.