Star mare Via Sistina has stepped out for her first public hitout of the campaign, completing a quiet 850-metre barrier trial at Randwick as she builds towards a first-up run in the Group 1 Winx Stakes on August 23.

The reigning Queen Elizabeth Stakes winner finished near the rear in Tuesday’s opening heat on the Kensington track, travelling comfortably alongside high-profile stablemate Fangirl.

Trainer Chris Waller indicated both mares are on track to resume in the first major of the Sydney spring carnival. Waller is also weighing up the same target for Australian Derby hero Aeliana and classy filly Lady Shenandoah, who is scheduled to trial at Warwick Farm on Friday.

The Novelist claimed the opening heat, finishing ahead of More Territories and Full Count Felicia, while Godolphin’s Tom Kitten and Zardozi crossed the line in fifth and sixth. Via Sistina and Fangirl weren’t extended, as expected, and cruised to the line at the back of the field.

In the following heat, Aeliana was also given a soft time, trailing the field in a trial taken out by Palmetto. Stablemates Autumn Glow and Golden Slipper runner-up Wodeton finished third and sixth respectively.

Waller said he is pleased with Wodeton’s progress and has earmarked the Golden Rose (1400m) as a likely spring goal for the Coolmore-owned colt.

“It’s exciting for the two-year-olds turning into three,” Waller said. “He looks like he has come back really well and he’ll go towards a Golden Rose. I think 1400 will suit him.”

Wodeton had an impressive juvenile campaign, kicking off with a win at Rosehill in January and going on to place at his next three starts before a game fourth in the ATC Sires’ Produce Stakes (1400m) in April.

While his first-up assignment is yet to be confirmed, Waller expects Wodeton to be ready to resume next month in Sydney.

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