Via Sistina and Aeliana weren’t at their best in the Makybe Diva Stakes, but trainer Chris Waller is convinced both mares are primed to bounce back this weekend.
The pair will clash once again in Saturday’s $750,000 Group 1 Turnbull Stakes at Flemington, their third meeting of the season.
While connections briefly considered splitting them for their final race before the Cox Plate, Waller confirmed both will head to the Turnbull. Damian Lane has been booked for Aeliana, while James McDonald will stay aboard Via Sistina.
“They both had a gallop on Saturday morning at Flemington and both were perfect,” Waller said.
“James (McDonald) is going to ride Via and Damian (Lane) will ride Aeliana. It’s quite likely they will run together.”
Earlier this spring, Via Sistina claimed the Group 1 Winx Stakes (1400m) over Aeliana, before her stablemate turned the tables in the Makybe Diva Stakes (1600m) when finishing second behind Mr Brightside, with Via Sistina in third.
Via Sistina will be chasing consecutive wins in the Turnbull after defeating Buckaroo in last year’s running. Buckaroo is nominated again but is set to bypass the race for the Group 1 Might And Power Stakes (2000m) the following week.
Stablemate Land Legend is a probable runner, with Birdman, Moira, River Of Stars and Valiant King also considered. Rival challengers include Tony Gollan’s Antino, Melbourne Cup favourite Sir Delius and Caulfield Cup elect Half Yours.
Waller also provided an update on Lady Shenandoah, who tasted defeat for the first time when finishing fourth in the Group 1 Manikato Stakes (1200m).
“She has bounced out of it really well,” Waller said.
“We had the vet go over her (on Saturday morning), he was very happy. She ate up (on Friday night), which most horses don’t, but she did.
“It was just a messy race and outside barrier around a tight-turning track but she will be ready for three weeks’ time.”
Lady Shenandoah is set to trial at Randwick on October 7 before running in the $20 million The Everest on October 18.
If you’re looking to have a bet on the Turnbull Stakes, check out Australia’s best betting sites and trusted online bookmakers for the latest odds.
