Dual Cox Plate champion Via Sistina has barely put a foot wrong since joining Chris Waller’s stable at the end of 2023.

From 15 runs in Australia, the mare has recorded 10 victories at Group 1 level along with four placings, her only defeat coming in last year’s Makybe Diva Stakes (1600m) at Flemington on a track turned treacherous by hail.

The weather looks set to again play a role when Via Sistina steps out for a second straight win in the Champions Stakes (2000m) on Saturday, the final Group 1 event of Melbourne Cup week.

Between 10 and 30mm of rain is forecast after up to 6mm on Friday, but Waller believes the mare will cope comfortably.

“The one time she failed on a wet track was that hail day,” Waller said.

“If you watch the replay, her lane had hail and ice all the way. James (McDonald) said she never got comfortable. Every other wet track she’s handled just fine.”

The Champions Stakes comes a fortnight after her emphatic second win in the Cox Plate (2040m) at Moonee Valley on October 25.

Waller said the team has simply maintained her condition.

“She’s naturally very fit. Whether first-up or last run of a prep, she performs,” he said.

“We’ve just kept her happy. The tougher the competition, the better she goes.”

Waller said that unlike her previous starts this prep, Saturday’s race is likely to be run at a genuine tempo.

“Flemington over 2000 metres, they usually roll along. That should play to her strengths.”

Via Sistina holds entries for the Hong Kong Cup and Hong Kong Vase next month, but Waller suggested a trip is unlikely.

“We’ll talk to the Yulong team. If the focus is autumn, she’ll have a break.”

Stablemate Kovalica also lines up, and while Waller does not expect an upset, he predicts a strong showing.

“He’s improving every run and 2000m suits now. Fresh legs can run well at Cup week.”

If you’re having a bet, compare odds across the Australian betting sites list.