Champ on right track

CHAUTAUQUA continued his progress towards the $10 million The Everest with a barrier trial at Rosehill yesterday.

The world’s highest-rated sprinter was kept under a tight rein by jockey Brenton Avdulla as he cruised home fifth behind Trapeze Artist in a 1020m heat.

Chautauqua rarely wins barrier trials but Team Hawkes were pleased with the gelding’s progress ahead of a possible return to racing in the Group 2 The Shorts (1100m) at Randwick on September 16.

The winner of six Group 1 races and more than $8.3 million prizemoney, Chautauqua has been the long-time favourite at $4.80 with UBET for The Everest (1200m) at Royal Randwick on October 14.

The Everest field is starting to take shape with Chautauqua, Golden Slipper winner She Will Reign, Gold Coast flyer Houtzen, Fell Swoop and English confirmed starters, while Redzel and Vega Magic virtually secured a start with their wins last Saturday.

Boom colts Pariah and Menari, who clash at Rosehill on Saturday, are also in the mix for a start in the world’s richest race on turf.