Chris Waller isn’t dwelling on Joliestar’s unplaced effort in the T J Smith Stakes, confident the talented mare can bounce back in Saturday’s All Aged Stakes (1400m) at Randwick.
Despite finishing ninth and two lengths behind Briasa in the Group 1 sprint, Waller pointed to a tough run in transit and limited racing options for jockey Damian Lane as key factors in her defeat.
“Damian had nowhere to go and he had to go up the fence,” Waller explained.
“There was no pressure in the race. He couldn’t push out. He had to go where no other horse had been on the day and it was slower there.”
Joliestar had been a dominant winner of the Group 1 Newmarket Handicap (1200m) at Flemington prior and has a proven record at Randwick, with two of her five career wins recorded at the track.
With Damian Lane suspended, Zac Lloyd picks up the ride and is expected to give the mare a clearer run from barrier nine.
“Barrier nine probably suits her, we won’t get the same excuse,” Waller said.
“I think 1400 metres is probably the right distance for her too.
“I’m not panicked. She is good enough to win. She just needs a little bit of luck on race day.”
Waller will also be represented by Osipenko in the All Aged Stakes, marking his return since winning the January Cup (2000m).
Known for improving as his preparation progresses, Osipenko is building toward longer assignments, with the stable targeting next month’s Hollindale Stakes.
“He’s a neat old horse. He is getting ready for the Hollindale (Stakes).”