Chris Waller had waited a full year to see Via Sistina redeem her narrow defeat in the Queen Elizabeth Stakes, and the remarkable mare delivered emphatically at Randwick on Saturday.

Last year’s edition saw Via Sistina finish second after Pride Of Jenni opened a huge lead that proved insurmountable. With that rival absent this time, Via Sistina took centre stage, determined to show she’s Australia’s premier middle-distance runner.

“She missed the race last year. We just miscalculated and full credit to Pride Of Jenni and Declan Bates and Ciaron (Maher), they won the race and they pulled our pants down,” Waller said.

When asked if Saturday’s commanding 1-3/4 length win over Dubai Honour helped make up for that loss, Waller was direct: “It does. It was a tough day that day.”

Via Sistina’s record now stands at eight Group 1 wins in Australia, including seven this season alone. Waller praised her consistency and professionalism on race day, noting her stable management remains cautious.

“We’re still getting to know her. She is well into her twilight years but it’s scary really, how good she is,” he said.

Despite being slow from the gates, James McDonald remained composed, settling her back on the fence. When momentarily held up at the bend, he found a seam and the mare did the rest with a devastating finish.

“There was one little worrying moment. I thought the one I was following was going to kick for a gap and he just didn’t go for it, and I ended up back off him,” McDonald said.

“But she was superior. Once I got those gaps, she sliced through and went bang.

“You could poke holes in her performances coming into today because she hasn’t been winning by big margins, but that’s the type of horse she is now. She only does what she has to.”

Dubai Honour ($8) ran well under the circumstances, having raced wide from a tough draw. Jockey Tom Marquand admitted he wasn’t sure the result could have been any different.

“Had a horrible run around. Whether it would have been enough to turn it around I don’t know,” Marquand said.

Tom Kitten ($15) impressed in third, while Ceolwulf also closed well to grab fifth after settling last early.

It was a banner day for Waller, who also claimed the Group 1 Queen Of The Turf Stakes (1600m) with Fangirl. Celebrating with family on track, he reflected on the significance of the day.

“It is special and its great to have the family here,” he said.

“It’s Sydney’s biggest day of racing. Everest is catching up but this is our big day.

“The good horses are here and there is some international flavour as well, which is great.”