Aquis to grow Houtzen’s legacy with Everest
AQUIS Farm are determined to help Houtzen stamp her legacy in Australian racing, starting with today’s $10 million The Everest.
Houtzen won the Magic Millions 2YO Classic and placed fifth on a bog track at the Golden Slipper this year when Aquis decided to purchase shares in the three-year- old filly with an eye towards The Everest.
“We knew the horse we were getting when we did get into her,” Aquis managing director Justin Fung said.
“We want to do everything we can to get her to win as many races and as many quality races as she can and stamp her legacy.”
It will be no easy feat for the talented sprinter that is up against an impressive field in the 1200m race at $21 odds.
“I had dinner with Toby (on Thursday) and he is feeling confident,” Fung said.
“We drew barrier one and I think it gives her the best chance to win.
“It’s a really strong field. “We have a really good horse but it is hard to pick a favourite. We have got our fingers crossed.
“She is fast so she’ll have a chance but anyone can win it.”
Aquis’ standing as a racing and breeding operation in Australia is a quickly developing, led by Fung’s father and Hong Kong billionaire Tony Fung.
The company paid the $600,000 fee for this year’s slot in The Everest as they look to build their reputation further down under by winning the world’s richest turf race.
“This may be the race’s first year but I think it will become a staple on the racing calendar,” Fung said.
“You can tell already that it’s been successful in the way its been marketed, the way the media has covered it, the attention its getting domestically and overseas. As emerging players in the Australia industry I think it’s important for us to be tied in with that.”