Ka Ying Rising has trialed this morning at Randwick and just like last year has been edged out, this time by Ninja.

The interesting perspective on this trial is that whilst Ka Ying Rising was well held and no pressure was applied, the same goes for Ninja.

Zac Purton conceded there are “obviously” concerns over Ka Ying Rising after the star sprinter laboured on the soft track in Tuesday morning’s trial.

“He was a little bit similar to last year, he pulled up having a really big blow,” Purton said.

“Slightly better trial compared to last year, but he really does labour in that ground.

“We need him to stop eating grass and David Hayes keeps telling me he loves it and I keep saying that he’s a racehorse not a pet!

“I’ve been trying to tell him for the past two years he doesn’t like wet ground but he’s not convinced.”

With Tempted, Ninja, Joliestar and Jimmysstar among the likely opposition, Purton knows Ka Ying Rising faces a serious challenge.

“Of course we are scared of Tempted, it’s a very strong race… it’s a tough task,” he said.

“Hopefully we get a dryer track on raceday.”

Champion Trainer David Hayes via Sky Thoroughbred Central's broadcast discussed the trial and directed his attention to October 17 at Randwick.

“I think the longer grass and the soft surface was not ideal,” he said.

“He got into a nice rhythm; he had a good healthy blow and a good sweat.

“I was happier this year than last year.”

Hayes was additionally asked about the want for a firmer track on Everest Day, remaining confident in the six-year-old gelding.

“I’d love to (have a good hard track) because I want to have a crack at a track record,” he said.

With Ka Ying Rising still having to prove his ability on rain-affected ground, Purton and Hayes will be hoping for the firmer surface as the star sprinter prepares to take on the Everest for a second year running.

But what this trial does suggest is that if a heavier track presents on TAB Everest Day, the champion could be in real danger.