In the spring, Via Sistina took the spotlight. This preparation, Autumn Glow has dominated.
Aeliana has lurked behind two elite stable companions across her previous six outings, yet this Saturday at Rosehill, the mare steps into the limelight for the Ranvet Stakes (2000m).
She’s not just pursuing her initial victory since dominating her ATC Australian Derby opponents a year back; she’s also positioned to aid James McDonald in matching Damien Oliver’s Australian benchmark of 129 Group 1 triumphs.
Following his success in last weekend’s Coolmore Classic on Lazzura, McDonald requires a single additional elite win to match the retired Oliver, with Aeliana marking his initial Group 1 mount among five at Rosehill.
Trainer Chris Waller believes the mare can provide the breakthrough for the top jockey, a view echoed by bettors who have installed her as the firm $1.65 market leader.
“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.”
Aeliana forms part of an impressive lineup of five Group 1 mounts for McDonald this Saturday, every one trained by Sydney’s leading conditioner.
Should the mare secure his record-tying success, Rosehill Guineas hope Autumn Boy offers McDonald’s next shot at surpassing Oliver, then unbeaten mare Autumn Glow in the George Ryder Stakes (1500m).
His remaining Group 1 efforts, Fireball in the Golden Slipper (1200m) and Generosity in the Galaxy (1100m), face long odds requiring surprises at double figures.
A key rival for Aeliana might prove stablemate Lindermann ($9), boasting two victories and two minor placings from four attempts over Rosehill’s 2000-metre track.
Post a solid first-up third, the gelding underperformed in the Verry Elleegant Stakes (1600m) recently, though Waller noted a strong recovery and anticipates his typical strong showing.
“He’s fine. He’s had an ECG and everything is normal so he will definitely be there,” Waller said.
Trinity College trails as the longest shot among the stable’s three, yet holds a Group 3 success at the trip abroad, with Waller praising his sharp efforts since arriving in Australia last month.
Explore betting markets for the race at Australian betting sites ahead of the Ranvet Stakes showdown.