Chris Waller has again claimed Wyong’s January feature, with the consistent Chica Mojito landing the $500,000 Lakes Mile.

Waller also won the inaugural running of the 1600-metre event in 2025 with Waterford and, fittingly, Chica Mojito ($17) recorded just the second victory of her career from 24 starts.

When combined with 12 minor placings, including an unlucky third in the Group 3 Belle Of The Turf (1600m) at Gosford on December 28, the five-year-old’s record suggests she has often deserved better.

“She got a bit of traffic in the home straight but she’s been crying out for a win for a long time,” stable representative Darren Beadman said.

“She got the conditions right today. A good fast speed and presented well today.

“It was a good confident ride by Andy (Adkins).”

Chica Mojito scored by two lengths over stablemate Mare Of Mt Buller ($14), with Gallant Star ($8.50) finishing a further three-quarters of a length back in third.

Beadman was also satisfied with Mare Of Mt Buller’s effort, but said Adkins’ ride ultimately proved decisive.

Race favourite Know Thyself ($2.35) was never able to secure clear running after straightening and failed to finish in the placings.

Markets were active with leading Australian betting sites for the Lakes Mile, one of Wyong’s richest races on the calendar.

Chica Mojito had been entered for the Magic Millions Broodmare Sale in May last year but was withdrawn and has since missed the placings only once.

The post Waller wins The Lakes again first appeared on Just Horse Racing.