Renowned trainer John Hawkes is eyeing a remarkable feat in Australian horse racing by targeting major slot races in both the thoroughbred and harness racing codes. With his sprinter Briasa set for The Everest, a $20 million event, and emerging star Seathestars in contention for the $2.1 million TAB Eureka, Hawkes is poised for a potential double triumph.
Hawkes, a fixture in the racing world, has a deep-rooted passion for harness racing, having owned numerous pacers over the years. Seathestars, a promising three-year-old, has captured attention with impressive performances, culminating in a strong showing in the Queensland Derby despite facing challenging odds.
Seathestars’ recent form has bolstered confidence in his abilities, with Hawkes and his harness trainer, Geoff Webster, contemplating a bid for The Eureka. The prospect of competing in both The Everest and The Eureka has stirred excitement within the Hawkes camp, as they aim to make their mark in two of the most prestigious races on the Australian racing calendar.
Webster’s admiration for Seathestars has only grown in light of the gelding’s recent achievements, particularly his standout performance in the Derby. Hawkes expressed optimism about Briasa’s return to training, highlighting the horse’s potential for further growth and success in upcoming campaigns.
Briasa, a proven performer with seven wins from 10 starts, including a Group 1 victory, is gearing up for a shot at The Everest. Despite a brief hiatus following the All Aged Stakes, Briasa is poised to make a strong comeback under Hawkes’ guidance.
The competition at The Everest is expected to be fierce, with Hong Kong star Ka Ying Rising and the talented Private Harry posing formidable challenges. However, Hawkes remains undaunted, emphasizing his eagerness to test Briasa against the best in the business and showcase the horse’s untapped potential.
As Hawkes sets his sights on securing slots in both prestigious races, the racing community eagerly anticipates the unfolding drama and the potential for a historic double triumph. With seasoned expertise and a keen eye for talent, Hawkes continues to push boundaries and carve out a legacy in the competitive world of Australian horse racing.
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