Waller mares ‘perfect’ ahead of the 2025 Turnbull Stakes
Trainer Chris Waller is optimistic about the spring campaigns of Via Sistina and Aeliana despite mixed results in the Makybe Diva Stakes.
The stable stars will square off again in the $750,000 Group 1 Turnbull Stakes at Flemington, marking their third head-to-head clash this preparation.
Although there was a possibility of sending them on different paths, Waller confirmed both mares will run in the Turnbull, with Damian Lane riding Aeliana and James McDonald aboard Via Sistina.
“They both had a gallop on Saturday morning at Flemington and both were perfect,” Waller said.
“James (McDonald) is going to ride Via and Damian (Lane) will ride Aeliana. It’s quite likely they will run together.”
The mares have already traded blows: Via Sistina beating Aeliana in the Group 1 Winx Stakes (1400m), then Aeliana finishing ahead of her stablemate in the Makybe Diva Stakes (1600m) when chasing home Mr Brightside.
Via Sistina will attempt to defend her Turnbull Stakes crown, having claimed last year’s edition over Buckaroo. Buckaroo is nominated again but is tipped to resume in the Group 1 Might And Power Stakes (2000m) instead.
Other likely Turnbull starters from Waller’s camp include Land Legend, Birdman, Moira, River Of Stars and Valiant King, with Antino, Melbourne Cup favourite Sir Delius and Caulfield Cup fancy Half Yours among the wider nominations.
Meanwhile, Lady Shenandoah, who lost her unbeaten record in the Group 1 Manikato Stakes (1200m), is reported to have bounced back strongly.
“She has bounced out of it really well,” Waller said.
“We had the vet go over her (on Saturday morning), he was very happy. She ate up (on Friday night), which most horses don’t, but she did.
“It was just a messy race and outside barrier around a tight-turning track but she will be ready for three weeks’ time.”
The mare is expected to trial at Randwick on October 7 before heading to the $20 million The Everest on October 18.
For those planning a wager on the Turnbull Stakes, Australia’s top betting sites and best-rated betting apps are the place to find the best markets.
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