In a spectacular display of speed and skill, Hong Kong’s superstar sprinter Ka Ying Rising, ridden by renowned jockey Zac Purton, clinched his 14th consecutive victory at The Everest 2025, the world’s richest turf race, held at Sydney’s Royal Randwick. The David Hayes-trained five-year-old surged ahead in the final 100 meters, securing a decisive win by a length and claiming the staggering prize of Aus$7.0 million (US$4.7 million) for a race that lasted just over a minute. Tempted, with Craig Williams aboard, finished second, followed by Jimmysstar, ridden by Ethan Brown. Ka Ying Rising, now hailed as the planet’s premier sprinter, boasts an impressive record of 15 wins in 17 starts, including 14 consecutive victories, most of which were under Purton’s expert guidance. The gelding’s only two losses were second-place finishes. Purton, who flew in from Hong Kong to pilot Ka Ying Rising from barrier seven, noted the horse’s initial restlessness in the gate but praised his performance: ‘He still began well and had a beautiful run in the race.’ Jimmysstar led early, but Ka Ying Rising’s relentless pace in the final stretch sealed the victory. Purton, 42 and nearing the end of his illustrious career, expressed deep emotion: ‘It makes you a little bit emotional. I’ve been really lucky to have this horse come along now, and it’s a great way to close my career.’ The Everest, a 1,200-meter race featuring 12 elite sprinters under weight-for-age conditions, is the crown jewel of the Sydney Spring Carnival, offering a total prize pool of Aus$20 million (US$13 million). It is the second-richest thoroughbred race globally, trailing only the Saudi Cup. Even the last-placed horse, Magic Time, earned Aus$700,000. Trainer David Hayes described the win as a ‘crowning moment’ in his career, while owner Leung Shek-kong celebrated the triumph. The race’s innovative format, inspired by the Pegasus World Cup, involves buyers purchasing Aus$700,000 slots and partnering with owners and jockeys to secure top horses, with prize money shared among participants.