When will Nature Strip race next? Star sprinter set to resume for Everest tilt

Liam O'Loughlin

When will Nature Strip race next? Star sprinter set to resume for Everest tilt image

One of the best horses of the modern era has begun preparations for an Everest tilt, with star sprinter Nature Strip returning to the track for two trials in August. 

The nine-year-old gelding had a rare winless campaign in autumn, failing to place in either the Group 1 Lightning Stakes and Group 1 TJ Smith Stakes, but is back for potentially his final prep this spring.

Chris Waller provided a positive update on the nine-time Group 1 winner via social media following his trial on August 11th, where he finished second to Queen of the Ball over 900m at Rosehill Gardens, before winning a fortnight later.

"Delighted with the way Nature Strip has come back as are all the staff behind the scenes including vets, farriers, physios and strappers," Waller said on Twitter

"His body language tells me he is a very happy horse in a great place."

When will Nature Strip race next?

After a lengthy spell, Nature Strip's first-up run is expected to come in the $1 million Group 3 Concorde Stakes at Randwick on September 2nd over 1000 metres following his two impressive trials. 

Waller is expected to give Nature Strip one other run prior to The Everest on October 14th, with the likely events being The Shorts (G2) on September 16th or Premiere Stakes (G2) on September 30th.

Will Nature Strip run in The Everest?

Nature Strip is not officially confirmed for this year's $20 million Everest, but is expected to gain entry through Chris Waller's slot in the field.

At this stage, only four runners have been confirmed for the race - Mazu, I Wish I Win, Giga Kick and Think About It. 

Nature Strip career record

  Starts Win Place
Group 1 16 9 3
The Everest 4 1 -
Group 2 9 4 3
Group 3 3 1 1
Listed 2 2 0
TOTAL 43 22 9

Nature Strip career prize money

Throughout his illustrious career at the track, Nature Strip has brought home $20.75 million for his connections, including massive wins in The Everest and Royal Ascot King's Stand Stakes. 

The Everest 2023 betting odds

The final field is yet to be set, but punters can still bet via the All-In Market.

Giga Kick is the early favourite, while I Wish I Win and Think About It are also at single-figure odds. 

Odds courtesy of Dabble, correct as of August 28th. 

Runner Odds
Giga Kick $3.50
I Wish I Win $4.80
Think About It $7.00
In Secret $11
Imperartiz $13
Amelias Jewel $13
Shinzo $13
Imperatriz $13
Mazu $13
Nature Strip $15
What You Need $15
Private Eye $15
Overpass $19
Other runners $21+

 

Liam O'Loughlin

Liam O'Loughlin Photo

Liam has been with The Sporting News since 2019, helping lead both NRL and cricket content, as well as delving into the world of combat sports and NFL. A true rugby league tragic, he has spent the past 20 years playing, coaching and volunteering for his beloved junior club, Penshurst RSL. 

Away from work, Liam has a lifelong passion for all things pro wrestling and has travelled abroad to attend showcase events for WWE, AEW and NJPW.