Defending champion Redzel is hoping for a three-peat this year. Everest Diaries spoke to trainer Peter Snowden about his plans for the son of Snitzel, who has stolen the hearts of many racing enthusiasts around the world, for his good looks and speed.

Q: What is at the top of your 2019 bucket list?

PS: To win the Everest (for the third time) with Redzel!

Q: Are there any changes you have made to Redzel’s routine? What the plan of action?

PS: It’s simply to get him in the best possible shape for The Everest. He was extremely lucky to win it two years in a row. The third-year will be harder. We just hope to our best.

We can’t change the final outcome of the race. We can’t change the list of contenders or the weather conditions. We can however just try to make sure that he is as happy as can be.

Q: What kind of a horse is he?

PS: He is the kindest, sweetest and easiest horse to train

Q: So how did Redzel join your stable?

PS: Paul and I were with Darley for ten years and then decided to go private. Michael Ward had a few horses he wanted us to train and we were incredibly lucky that one of those horses was Redzel. He was a 2YO when he came to us. Since then all of Triple Crown’s horses are now trained by us.

Q: As is the trend nowadays, are you planning to retire him any time soon?

PS: If he was a colt, the owners would have considered retiring him early but since he is a gelding, we will continue to race him until he lets us know otherwise.

Q: Do you plan to take him anywhere internationally?

PS: Australian racing industry prize money is really good. We have very good Group races here. We don’t need him to travel. Furthermore, it’s very difficult and risky to travel a horse.

Q: And finally could you please tell us about his racing style?

PS: He likes to lead and set his own pace. If he gets his own way in front it makes him hard to run down. He handles hard and soft ground which is a big advantage.