Randwick punters were treated to a mare’s masterclass as Chris Waller’s Joliestar swept aside the males to capture the Group 2 Shorts on Saturday.

Sent out at $4.80, Joliestar confirmed her credentials for The Everest with a 1-1/4 length victory over Briasa ($3.10), with Generosity ($19) a solid third. The favourite Private Harry ($2.15) weakened late to finish fifth, 4-1/2 lengths behind.

“I was under pressure a long way from home, I was flat from about the 350m,” jockey Ash Morgan admitted after the race, noting his mount was never travelling with his usual zest.

McDonald, aboard the winner, said he was intent on avoiding stop-start racing from his wide draw. “I only had one objective and that was to get her into a smooth rhythm,” he said. “Briasa was just inside me, so I didn’t feel we were too far away. She’s such a genuine mare.”

He added: “She’s a solid horse that runs seven furlongs. That was thrilling and she deserves her place in The Everest. She’ll make her presence felt.”

Waller confirmed The Everest has always been the aim. “That’s mainly why she didn’t run last week. If we had five weeks between runs, she would have needed another race. But with four weeks, plus a trial, she’ll be spot on.”

Joliestar is now rated a $7 chance for The Everest, sitting on the second line of betting behind Ka Ying Rising.