Chris Waller has kicked off the racing season in spectacular fashion, securing another Group 1 victory.
Following a record 22 Group 1 wins in the 2025-26 season, Australia’s premier trainer has already claimed the first two Group 1 races of the new season.
While Autumn Glow triumphed in the Winx Stakes (1400m) at Randwick last week, Beiwacht led his competitors a merry chase to clinch the Memsie Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield on Saturday.
Guided by Nash Rawiller, Beiwacht ($6) crossed the line three lengths ahead of Mr Brightside ($21), with the $3.30 favourite Cosmic Crusader a short-neck behind in third.
Beiwacht was one of five colts Waller had competing on Saturday, and the trainer expressed particular satisfaction seeing the four-year-old return from a break and win so convincingly.
The colt had been scratched from the Winx Stakes the previous week due to a raised temperature, but his spring campaign was back on track by Monday morning.
“We didn’t panic,” Waller stated.
“It was enough to indicate he didn’t need to leave the stable, and remarkably, his blood count on Monday was perfect.
“We gave him a gallop at Rosehill on Tuesday. He was fine on Wednesday, and everything has been positive since, so whatever it was, it was short-lived.”
Beiwacht now boasts three Group 1 victories over the 1400m distance, and Waller indicated he would consult with the Godolphin team regarding future plans.
Waller also hinted that international racing was a possibility for Beiwacht.
“We mentioned last year that we were eager to take him overseas, but he isn’t a truly straightforward horse,” Waller commented.
“He struggled to perform at his best in the Lightning Stakes, which slightly diminished our confidence.
“He excels as a specialist 1400-metre performer, so there are international considerations.”
Waller added that Beiwacht had integrated seamlessly into his stable and, for a four-year-old entire, displayed remarkable composure before the race.
“Saddling him up before the race, he was a pleasure to handle,” Waller remarked.
“He was incredibly focused. It might sound as though I’m describing a person, but he was truly in the zone, solely concentrating on his race.
“We will identify a suitable race. I will discuss options with the Godolphin team, and I am confident there are excellent races ahead for him.”
Beiwacht’s dominant performance in the Memsie Stakes suggests he’s a strong contender in upcoming races; explore Australian betting sites for the latest odds.
