Model Nikki Phillips is betting on Mazu

After a one-on-one with TAB Everest contender Mazu, model Nikki Phillips knows where she’s placing her bets for the races.

New Zealand model and media personality Nikki Phillips was treated to a special meet and greet with racehorse Mazu at Snowden Racing stables in Randwick this morning.

Mazu is the second-favourite contender for the fast-approaching TAB Everest.

“I got to meet the incredible contender Mazu who totally outshone me in the photo but I’ll let him have that one,” Phillips told The Daily Telegraph.

“I’m looking forward to putting a little bit on him for Everest Day.”

The Australian Turf Club (ATC) has officially launched the spectacular eight-week Sydney Everest Carnival celebrating world-class racing, fashion, hospitality and events from 17 September to 5 November at Royal Randwick and Rosehill Gardens.

Nikki Phillips with TAB Everest contender Mazu. Picture: Richard Dobson

“Mazu has the most incredible personality and character. You can tell you he’s got a spark behind him,” she said.

Mazu was trained by winning duo Peter and Paul Snowden, who have claimed two Everest wins previously with Redzel.

Although she’s been based in Australia since 2002, Phillips fondly remembers the “pony club” days of her childhood in New Zealand.

She used to take part in dressage, showjumping and cross country riding competitions and so feels right at home next to the horses.

“I definitely miss the horse upbringing and love the chance to get my high heels dirty,” Phillips said.

Although she’s wearing canary yellow today, Phillips says she’ll be wearing blue on Everest Day. Picture: Richard Dobson

“I’m a fashion girl, so I love the chance to dress up along the prim and proper lines with a headpiece or hat.”

She adding that she’ll be wearing blue this year.

“Racing Carnival definitely brings back a lot of memories. There’s no other event like it in Australia and Sydney knows how to turn it on.

“The atmosphere is absolutely incredible, and it’s such a fun day. There’s no other like it.”

These days, Phillips doesn’t see as much of horses as she’d like to but said she was keen to get her three children riding.

“I don’t even have time to breathe much with the kids and work but I am pestering the husband the sell the house and buy a farm. So we’ll see!”