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J-Mac says Everest is “open” after Ka Ying Rising's Everest trial
Connor Scanlon • October 8th, 2025 12:17 pm
The official Everest trial took place on Tuesday and James McDonald was very happy with how international superstar Ka Ying Rising performed.
But the reason may surprise you.
It's because the David Hayes trained sprinter, in the eyes of many racing critics, was underwhelming.
Ka Ying Rising is currently the $1.50 favourite with many bookmakers to take out the $20 million Group 1 and the gelding’s regular jockey, Zac Purton, who also rode him in the trial admitted that the son of Shamexpress and Missy Moo “needs to improve".
J-Mac, who rode Joliestar, in the trial echoed that sentiment on SENTrack & RSN’s Giddy Up.
“Put it this way, I was happy to see the trial,” McDonald exclaimed.
“I know everyone was probably a little bit blown away that he didn’t win by a few lengths.
“I’d say (The Everest is) open.”
After the trial was run, J-Mac passed by the Hong Kong sprinter on Joliestar, and the Kiwi jockey turned his head to look back at Purton and Ka Ying Rising.
When asked about what he said to Purton, McDonald admitted that he actually didn’t say anything.
“I didn’t say anything, I was just admiring the world champion sprinter that was on offer there,” McDonald cheekily said.
“It was pretty cool to watch, obviously he brought a crowd out.
“He’s got a champion jockey in his corner, he’s got a champion trainer in his corner.
“He’s got a couple things in his corner that will help him in the next 11 days.”
James McDonald’s most likely Everest rides are the Chris Waller trained Joliestar or Lady Shenandoah.
