Chris Waller’s partnership with Godolphin began in style as Amusing stormed home to win the opening race of the new season at Rosehill.

The victory in the Captivant @ Kia Ora Handicap (1500m) marked Godolphin’s first Sydney runner since moving to a public training model.

Waller admitted to nerves pre-race but was thrilled with the result.

“I was nervous coming into the race, just to make sure everything went well, so it was a good relief,” he said.

“Godolphin have been our biggest competitor for so many years… to be one of nine or ten trainers to be chosen, it’s an honour.”

Waller has taken over nine horses from the global racing giant and praised the standard set by James Cummings and his team.

“The young horses are so well educated. Horses like her have settled in really well,” he said.

Darren Beadman, a long-time Godolphin figure, has also joined Waller’s team, adding further experience to a strong senior staff lineup.