Redzel has won The Everest, Australia's richest horse race, for a second consecutive year at Randwick.
The Kerrin McEvoy-ridden Redzel led the 1,200-metre feature from the early stages to post a clear victory over Trapeze Artist and Osborne Bulls following a week of controversy surrounding the projection of the race's barrier draw on Sydney's Opera House.
Redzel, trained by Peter and Paul Snowden, earned its connections $5.8 million as part of the total prize pool of $13 million that was on offer, with the race the richest in the world on turf.
"I was a bit more relaxed today," McEvoy told Channel Seven.
"Last year was a bit of a whirlwind and I think having done it last year put me in good stead for this year.
I went in with a nice amount of confidence that the horse was going to do well, given the rain, but he had to bounce off the canvas from a defeat last time.
"Fair play to the Snowdens. They got him back where they needed on a big day."
Peter Snowden was shocked by Redzel's triumph, while praising McEvoy's astute riding.
"I can't believe it. To win is once I thought we were lucky, but to win it again it is unbelievable," he said.
"I knew we had a bit of work to do with the horse from his last start but I was confident he could make the improvement.
"Kerrin can a masterful ride. He judged the pace perfectly and gave himself every chance to finish off hard and that last part was a thrill, it was special."
More to come.
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