Chris Waller eyes Group 1 double with Atishu

Chris Waller is preparing Atishu for a Group 1 assault at Flemington, with two prestigious races on the horizon.

The mare has joined Waller’s Melbourne team ahead of the Group 1 All-Star Mile (1600m) this Saturday, before tackling the Group 1 Australian Cup (2000m) in three weeks.

Atishu is already a Flemington specialist, boasting two Group 1 wins. She claimed the Empire Rose Stakes (1600m) at last year’s Melbourne Cup Carnival and won the Champions Stakes (2000m) in 2022 after finishing second in the Empire Rose.

Her most recent Flemington appearance saw her chase home Via Sistina in last year’s Champions Stakes.

Waller said the All-Star Mile’s new Group 1 status made the trip south an appealing option despite the prize money reduction.

“The prize pool has dropped, but the race has increased in value by gaining Group 1 recognition,” Waller said.

“A Group 1 win adds significant value—not just to Atishu, but to her entire bloodline.”

Atishu kicked off her autumn campaign with a seventh-place finish in the Group 2 Apollo Stakes (1400m) at Randwick on February 15.

Waller is confident she has improved since.

“She raced behind Via Sistina and Fangirl from a wide draw and finished off nicely,” Waller said.

“She’s been working well back in Sydney and has had a couple of sharp gallops leading into this race.

“Flemington suits her perfectly—she’s a multiple Group 1 winner here, and the mile is ideal. From there, she’ll step up to the Australian Cup.”

Waller praised Flemington’s track, highlighting how it plays to Atishu’s strengths.

“Flemington is a world-class track that gives every horse a chance,” Waller said.

“It has a long straight, a sweeping bend, and a consistently good racing surface.

“Atishu thrives in those conditions. She likes to find her rhythm, build momentum, and finish powerfully.

“If every track could maintain Flemington’s standard all year, it would be ideal.”