Bella Nipotina made history on October 19, 2024, by becoming the first mare to win The Everest at Royal Randwick. This victory was especially significant for jockey Craig Williams, who found redemption after being removed from Giga Kick earlier in the year.
A Redemptive Victory for Craig Williams
Williams guided Bella Nipotina to a narrow but decisive victory over Giga Kick, the 2022 Everest winner, a horse he had previously ridden to glory. However, Williams’ journey with Giga Kick ended controversially when he was replaced after a criticised ride during the McEwen Stakes last spring. The Everest win marked a triumphant return for Williams and silenced those who doubted his abilities.
“It’s a sweet moment,” said Williams after the win. “Bella gave everything, and it feels incredible to deliver this victory.”
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Bella Nipotina Makes History
Bella Nipotina’s triumph is a landmark achievement. She became the first mare to win the prestigious $20 million race, adding her name to an exclusive list of Everest champions. Known for her resilience and powerful sprints, Bella Nipotina’s win cements her status among the top racehorses in Australia.
Co-trainer Ciaron Maher expressed pride in the mare’s performance. “Bella showed great heart today. She made history, and we are all proud of her.”
Thrilling Finish Amid Everest Day Drama
The Everest lived up to its reputation for excitement. Thousands of spectators at Randwick joined in the traditional Sweet Caroline sing-along before the race, building anticipation for the high-stakes event. However, moments before the race began, Traffic Warden was declared a late scratching, adding to the pre-race tension.
The 1200-metre sprint ended in a dramatic finish, with Bella Nipotina narrowly beating Giga Kick. A photo finish was required to confirm the final positions, underscoring the fierce competition on the track.
Dual Success for Williams on Everest Day
Williams not only won The Everest but also secured victory in the Kosciuszko race earlier in the day. The rare achievement of winning two major races at Royal Randwick showcased his composure and skill under pressure.
“Winning both races on the same day is a dream come true,” Williams said. “It’s been a challenging journey, but today made it all worthwhile.”
Giga Kick’s Close Second and Williams’ Replacement
Giga Kick’s second-place finish added extra intrigue to the event. Many racing enthusiasts had followed the drama surrounding Williams’ replacement on Giga Kick, making the result even more captivating. Despite being removed as Giga Kick’s jockey earlier, Williams handled the situation with professionalism and delivered an exceptional performance on Bella Nipotina.
“You never know how things will unfold in racing,” Williams reflected. “Today, everything came together perfectly.”
Bright Prospects for Bella Nipotina and Craig Williams
Following this historic victory, Bella Nipotina’s future looks promising. Her exceptional performance in Australia’s richest race positions her as a top contender in upcoming competitions.
For Craig Williams, the win reaffirms his status as one of Australia’s finest jockeys. After facing setbacks earlier in the year, this triumph serves as a reminder of the value of persistence. Williams remains optimistic about future races. “This is just the beginning. There’s much more to achieve,” he said.
Conclusion
Bella Nipotina’s win at The Everest will be remembered as a defining moment in Australian horse racing history. The race not only showcased her abilities but also marked Craig Williams’ remarkable comeback after a challenging year. With this victory, both the mare and her jockey have cemented their legacies in the sport.
The 2024 Everest was a day of excitement, history, and redemption. Bella Nipotina’s achievement as the first mare to win the race and Craig Williams’ professional comeback will resonate with fans and set the stage for further success in their racing careers.
