Autumn Glow impresses but G1 Surround Stakes start not certain

Unbeaten filly Autumn Glow continues to impress ahead of her return to racing, but trainer Chris Waller remains undecided on whether she will take her place in Saturday’s Group 1 Surround Stakes (1400m) at Randwick.

The daughter of The Autumn Sun produced a strong trial effort on Monday, cruising into third place in a 1050m heat behind Group 2 winner Schwarz. With jockey Zac Lloyd keeping her under a tight hold, she showed the kind of ability that made her a standout in the spring.

Despite the promising trial, Waller isn’t rushing a decision on her return.

“She’ll need to be at her very best to beat Lady Shenandoah, so if we don’t think she’s ready, we won’t run,” Waller said.

Autumn Glow last raced in September, claiming victory in the Group 2 Tea Rose Stakes. A knee injury then forced her withdrawal from the Group 1 Flight Stakes, which was won in dominant fashion by Lady Shenandoah.

That filly has returned in outstanding form, proving too strong in the Group 2 Light Fingers Stakes (1200m). Waller acknowledges she’s the one to beat in the Surround Stakes, though he still has a strong hand with likely starters Amelita, Delichy Boulevard, and Lazzura.

“Lady Shenandoah is the clear benchmark, but my fillies are improving,” Waller said. “If they handle the step up to 1400m well, they could challenge.”

Waller also has plenty to look forward to in Saturday’s $1 million Verry Elleegant Stakes (1600m), where Fangirl and Via Sistina will renew their rivalry. Lindermann, who finished between them in the Apollo Stakes, is also set to line up, alongside stablemate Land Legend and the in-form Ceolwulf.