Things didn’t quite unfold as planned for Via Sistina or Aeliana in the recent Makybe Diva Stakes, but trainer Chris Waller came away optimistic about their spring prospects.
The two star mares will renew their rivalry for a third time this season in Saturday’s $750,000 Group 1 Turnbull Stakes at Flemington.
While there was consideration given to splitting them for their final hit-out before the Cox Plate, Waller confirmed that Aeliana will line up with Damian Lane in the saddle, while James McDonald sticks with Via Sistina in the 2000m contest.
“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 pair have already clashed twice this season: Via Sistina edging out Aeliana in the Group 1 Winx Stakes (1400m) at Randwick, before Aeliana turned the tables when finishing second to Mr Brightside with Via Sistina third in the Makybe Diva Stakes (1600m).
Via Sistina is looking to secure back-to-back Turnbull Stakes wins, having rebounded from a flat Makybe Diva performance last year to claim a narrow victory over Buckaroo.
Buckaroo is nominated again but is expected to bypass the Turnbull in favour of next weekend’s Group 1 Might And Power Stakes (2000m).
Stablemate Land Legend is likely to take his chance, with Birdman, Moira, River Of Stars and Valiant King also among Waller’s entries. Outside the stable, strong challengers include Tony Gollan’s Antino, Melbourne Cup favourite Sir Delius and Caulfield Cup favourite Half Yours.
Waller also gave an update on Lady Shenandoah, who suffered her first career defeat when fourth in the Group 1 Manikato Stakes (1200m).
“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.”
Lady Shenandoah is expected to trial at Randwick on October 7 before lining up in the $20 million The Everest on October 18.
Punters planning to back a horse in the Turnbull Stakes can compare the best betting sites and leading online bookmakers to get the best odds.