Spring preparations underway for Waller’s girls

Chris Waller’s stable is primed for a strong spring with an elite group of fillies and mares returning to training, setting the scene for a high-profile campaign starting in just weeks.

Returning stars include Via Sistina, Coolmore Classic heroine Lady Shenandoah, unbeaten up-and-comer Autumn Glow, runaway Australian Derby winner Aeliana, and the durable Fangirl.

Waller is expected to split his team across states, with several likely to resume in the Winx Stakes (1400m) on August 23 at Randwick. Others, such as Via Sistina, may head to Melbourne for the Memsie Stakes (1400m) or follow a Cox Plate path.

“They are all back in work,” Waller said.

“In the Winx Stakes we will be well represented. A couple will go to the Memsie Stakes.

“A few of them might end up in the Makybe Diva (Stakes) and then Fangirl will come back for the King Charles III Stakes.

“Via Sistina will probably stay down there and is likely to follow a similar path to the Cox Plate as last year.”

The Winx Stakes will mark the start of the new Group 1 season, launching a major few months for Waller and his star-studded lineup.

Joining them are three American imports under the Yulong banner—Anisette, Moira, and Full Count Felicia—each a Grade One winner abroad and poised to make an impact in spring features.

Both Anisette and Moira were tested in the Doncaster Mile (1600m), while Full Count Felicia ran a solid fourth in the Ranvet Stakes (2000m) behind Via Sistina.

Waller suggested the P B Lawrence Stakes (1400m) as a potential kick-off race in Melbourne for the trio.

Keen to have a bet on this spring’s biggest races like the Winx Stakes or Cox Plate? Explore our expert-reviewed list of Australia’s top betting sites.

Whether you're using a mobile betting app or browsing online bookmakers, our complete guide to the best betting platforms in Australia has you covered.