Chris Waller is setting his sights on another Group 1 triumph with Atishu at Flemington.
The mare has joined Waller’s Flemington team in preparation for the Group 1 All-Star Mile (1600m) this Saturday, with the Group 1 Australian Cup (2000m) also on the agenda three weeks later.
Atishu has already proven her class at Flemington, boasting two Group 1 victories. She secured the Empire Rose Stakes (1600m) at last year’s Melbourne Cup Carnival and claimed the Champions Stakes (2000m) the year prior, following a runner-up finish in the Empire Rose.
In her latest Flemington outing, Atishu finished second to Via Sistina in last year’s Champions Stakes.
Waller noted that the All-Star Mile’s elevation to Group 1 status influenced the decision to send Atishu to Melbourne, despite a reduction in prize money.
“The prize money has come back, but in my opinion, it’s gained more value by being a Group 1,” Waller said.
“Group 1 status enhances value, not just for Atishu but for her family—her mother, her siblings, and future generations.”
Atishu heads to Flemington after a first-up seventh-place finish in the Group 2 Apollo Stakes (1400m) at Randwick on February 15.
Waller believes she has taken improvement from that run.
“She raced behind Via Sistina and Fangirl, drawing wide, settling back, and finishing off well,” Waller said.
“She’s trained on beautifully since and has had a couple of strong gallops in Sydney.
“She thrives at Flemington, where she’s already won multiple Group 1 races. The mile suits her perfectly, and from here, she’ll progress to the Australian Cup.”
Waller emphasized that Flemington’s track characteristics align with Atishu’s preferred racing style.
“Flemington is a top-class track where every horse gets a fair chance,” Waller said.
“The long straight, sweeping bend, and consistently good surface make it ideal.
“Atishu enjoys those conditions. She likes to settle, build momentum, and unleash a strong finish.
“If all tracks could maintain Flemington’s standard year-round, it would be fantastic.”
