Autumn Glow out to lay another 2025 Epsom Handicap marker

Undefeated mare Autumn Glow will step out at Rosehill on Saturday chasing her sixth straight success when she contests the Group 2 Theo Marks Stakes (1300m), a lead-up to the Epsom Handicap.

Autumn Glow made her spring return with a stylish win in the Toy Show Quality (1100m) at Randwick, handling heavy conditions that didn’t really suit. Trainer Chris Waller believes the step up in trip and firmer track will be ideal. “Everything at home indicates that she is. I’m very happy with her,” he said. “That first run is pretty important to see they’ve come back well but also for fitness. The 1300 will probably suit her a little bit better than the 1100.”

This weekend she faces a high-quality line-up featuring Doncaster Mile winner Stefi Magnetica, Encap, New Zealander Pier, and Spring Champion Stakes victor El Castello. Despite that depth, Autumn Glow has been posted a short-priced $1.55 favourite. Waller, though, is keeping his feet on the ground. “She shows some exciting things but we want to see her tick that Group One box before we start talking a bit more,” he said. “But she’s got all the signs of a nice horse and we haven’t found the ceiling with her yet.”

Another major player from the Waller stable, Joliestar, resumes in the Group 2 Sheraco Stakes (1200m). She was beaten favourite in the same race last spring and later endured a luckless run in The Everest (1200m), but confirmed her class with a win in the Newmarket Handicap (1200m) in the autumn. Waller said a different riding style will help her this campaign. “We don’t need to bustle her to be in positions. That was her downfall this time last year,” he said. “She’s a more mature horse now and we’ve learned a bit more about her too.”