Stable star Cristal Clear has been accepted for Saturday’s $10 million Golden Eagle at Randwick, drawing barrier 13 (now 12 after a scratching).
The in-form gelding has been a model of consistency this preparation, winning three of his past four starts, with his only defeat being a runner-up finish.
While the Golden Eagle was a late addition to his campaign, the $3 million Big Dance at Randwick on Melbourne Cup Day (November 4) remains his primary target. Despite the tight three-day turnaround between the two features, connections have not ruled out the possibility of tackling both races, with a combined $13 million in prizemoney up for grabs. A final decision on his participation will be made on Friday.
A key element of the Golden Eagle is its charity partnership program, which sees each runner aligned with a charity that receives 10% of their prizemoney. Cristal Clear will proudly represent Youngcare Australia, a national not-for-profit organisation that is transforming the way young people with high care disabilities live. Youngcare develops specialist disability accommodation (SDA), advocates for policy reform, delivers grants, and provides vital education and support services.
Purchased for just $50,000, Cristal Clear has already amassed over $360,000 in prizemoney. A successful campaign across the Golden Eagle and Big Dance could see his career earnings soar beyond $6 million, underlining an incredible value story for the talented gelding.