Chris Waller plans to field more than a quarter of the competitors in the Sydney Cup, and assistant Charlie Duckworth highlights a common strength in their team.
“With all of our runners in this, there isn’t much of a query over the distance,” Duckworth said.
Out of 15 Sydney Cup entries, seven are untested beyond shorter trips to 3200m, yet Waller’s all possess relevant staying credentials.
River Of Stars was fourth in the previous Melbourne Cup (3200m), Valiant King has twice entered the iconic Australian staying test, Soul Of Spain won at 3319m in Ireland, and Hutchence succeeded in his lone two-mile run overseas.
River Of Stars ($7.50) rates as the outfit’s best shot, confronting a significant weight of 56.5kg.
Mares have won just five times since 1989, with Makybe Diva among them at 55.5kg in 2004 – bridging her debut and next Melbourne Cup conquests.
Duckworth admits the weight hurdle for River Of Stars but is certain her talent and grit will shine through.
“She’s the class horse in the race, which is why she’s got top weight,” he said.
“She’s got a lovely draw (barrier six) to try to offset that weight, and two miles isn’t an issue with her, she is a proper staying mare.”
Valiant King achieved third in the Caulfield Cup and, winless in three this prep, his camp is thrilled for Saturday’s chance after missing 12 months prior.
“He was awesome in the spring,” Duckworth said.
“He’s yet to hit that height this prep, but we’re hoping Saturday will be when he does.
“He was scratched from the race last year, so we’ve got some unfinished business with him.”
The Championships’ second day brings high stakes for Waller, with 14 across four Group 1s including star mares Autumn Glow and Aeliana targeting the Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2000m).
Aeliana follows victories in the Ranvet Stakes and Tancred Stakes, earning Duckworth’s acclaim despite Autumn Glow’s headline chase for 12 straight.
“She has been faultless,” he said.
“She’s such a terrific horse, and she stays very well.”
With Aeliana confirmed to 2400m, Autumn Glow’s Randwick middle-distance debut draws scrutiny.
James McDonald and Waller recently defended her stamina prospects, bracing for pace pressures from competitors seeking flaws.
“The query is how quick they do end up going in this 2000 metre race,” Duckworth said.
“Everyone in the race will, I imagine, want to make it a stamina test as that’s likely to be the only chink in the favourite’s armour.”
Lindermann from the Waller yard is the likely pacemaker, with Dubai Honour, Caviar Heights for Haggas, and Sir Delius able to take up the running.
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