Spring spotlight fell on Via Sistina. This campaign, Autumn Glow has stolen the show.
Aeliana has trailed two top-tier stablemates in her prior six efforts, but Saturday’s Rosehill card hands the mare her spotlight moment in the Ranvet Stakes (2000m).
She’s hunting not merely her return to the winners’ list since demolishing ATC Australian Derby competition last year, but also a shot to let James McDonald match Damien Oliver’s 129 Group 1 Australian successes.
Last weekend’s Coolmore Classic conquest on Lazzura leaves McDonald one major away from Oliver’s retired record, kicking off five Group 1 bids at Rosehill with Aeliana.
Chris Waller rates the mare primed to hand the elite jockey his historic ride, aligning with punters’ support at $1.65 on side.
“She has come back stronger, and her first two runs have been fantastic,” Waller said.
“She’s got the best form heading into a Ranvet.
“This time last year, she ran second by a nostril on the same day in the Rosehill Guineas to Broadsiding and came out with an emphatic Derby win.
“She is where she needs to be.”
McDonald’s Saturday Group 1 slate of five—all for the Sydney training master—begins with Aeliana.
Her success would equal the mark; otherwise, Autumn Boy in the Rosehill Guineas looms next to break it, trailed by undefeated Autumn Glow in the George Ryder Stakes (1500m).
Additional Group 1 aspirations via Fireball for the Golden Slipper (1200m) and Generosity targeting the Galaxy (1100m) hinge on double-figure miracle runs.
Aeliana faces tough opposition from stable companion Lindermann ($9), with a record of two wins and two thirds over four Rosehill 2000m tests.
The gelding posted an encouraging resumption third before lacklustre effort in the Verry Elleegant Stakes (1600m), but Waller assures peak condition for a gritty performance.
“He’s fine. He’s had an ECG and everything is normal so he will definitely be there,” Waller said.
Filling the rank outsider role for the stable trio, Trinity College carries Group 3 victory abroad at this distance, showing sharp work since Australian arrival last month.
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