Chris Waller will launch a three-pronged attack on the Group 1 Queensland Derby (2400m) this Saturday, though his team has had anything but a smooth lead-up to the Eagle Farm feature.

The champion trainer has won this race three times in recent years and will be represented by Belle Detelle, Imperalist and Existential Bob, each with their own story heading into the event.

Belle Detelle, a close relation to Verry Elleegant, will be looking to defy history by becoming just the third filly this century to win the Derby. Waller chose to bypass the Queensland Oaks in favour of the longer trip of the Derby.

She finished sixth last start in the Rough Habit Plate (2000m) on a rain-affected track, a performance Waller found encouraging given the circumstances.

“It was solid, it was a very wet track,” he said. “She got a long way back and she finished off well. The barrier draw matters more than the track.”

Despite drawing wide in barrier 21, which becomes 17 if emergencies scratch, she’ll be ridden by star hoop James McDonald.

Imperalist, the surprise Rough Habit winner, will adopt similar front-running tactics after failing to fire when ridden conservatively in the Australian Derby.

“He’ll go forward again,” Waller said. “Tommy Berry told us he’ll definitely run out the trip, so we’ll give him every chance up on speed.”

Existential Bob, owned by Waller and his wife, rounds out the trio after a recent Ipswich win. While he may be less fancied, Waller believes the Ocean Park gelding will handle the rise in trip.

“He’s got staying blood, and he’s improved with every run. He deserves his shot,” Waller said.

Belle Detelle is second favourite at $7, just behind Statuario ($5), while Femminile sits on the third line of betting at $8 after their SA Derby quinella.

If you’re eyeing a wager on the Derby, make sure to explore the top Australian betting sites for the best prices and promotions on this weekend’s premier races.