Champion trainer Chris Waller is set to saddle up the favourite for Saturday’s $5 million Golden Slipper, but a few of his star runners could also steal the limelight at Rosehill.
Stablemates Via Sistina and Fangirl will take separate paths for the first time this season, with Cox Plate winner Via Sistina lining up in the Group 1 Ranvet Stakes (2000m), while Fangirl tackles the Group 1 George Ryder Stakes (1500m).
Both mares are coming into their third starts this preparation. Via Sistina got the better of Fangirl in the Group 1 Verry Elleegant Stakes (1600m) after finishing third behind her in the Group 2 Apollo Stakes (1400m).
“They had a gallop on Saturday just to keep them ticking over, and their regular riders were pleased with how they’ve progressed,” Waller said.
“This is the first time they’ll go separate ways this prep, which is a positive. It also gives us a chance to see them against different rivals.
“Via Sistina is better suited to the 2000 metres, while 1500 metres should be ideal for Fangirl.”
Via Sistina is expected to start as a short-priced favourite in the Ranvet Stakes, especially if Dubai Honour, one of 14 entries, doesn’t take his place.
She was also nominated for the George Ryder as a precaution, giving Waller seven runners in that race.
Among them are Buckaroo and Kovalica, both returning from spells after their Melbourne Cup campaigns. They had a strong track gallop together at last Thursday’s Randwick Kensington meeting.
“Buckaroo is in great shape. I’ve been surprised by how much interest there is in him—he’s become quite a popular horse,” Waller said.
“He’s always competitive, and his spring campaign was outstanding. We gave him a longer break after the Melbourne Cup, which I think was the right call.
“He’ll go from the George Ryder to the Queen Elizabeth, and then possibly the Hollindale or Doomben Cup.
“Kovalica, on the other hand, isn’t as sharp as Buckaroo, so he could be a good fit for the Q22. He’ll definitely be in the mix for the first two runs.”
While the Ranvet Stakes and George Ryder Stakes are significant Group 1 events, they serve as supporting acts to the Golden Slipper, the richest race for two-year-olds. Waller is pleased with Wodeton’s condition leading into the race and is hoping for a middle barrier at Tuesday’s draw.
“Seven or eight would be ideal,” Waller said when asked about his preferred gate.
“If he could settle midfield, maybe a pair further back one off the rail, that would be perfect.”