Champion trainer Chris Waller has developed a calm demeanour on the cusp of major racing events.
With two contenders in the upcoming Cox Plate (2040m at Flemington on Saturday) – Aeliana and Birdman – Waller indicated his nerves are well-managed these days.
“I’m not too bad, but I’ve been edgy before,” Waller stated. “We’ve been to some pretty high highs, and once you’ve been there, it helps you get there and you also learn, don’t expect too much, don’t build yourself up too much and usually you come away happy.”
Waller is aiming for his seventh Cox Plate victory, which would place him alongside the legendary Tommy Smith as the most successful trainer in the race’s history.
Waller’s success in the race began in 2015 with Winx, who secured the first of her four Cox Plates. More recently, Via Sistina delivered the trainer consecutive wins in 2024 and 2025.
Similar to Winx and Via Sistina, Aeliana is a mare and will be guided by James McDonald, who is seeking his fifth consecutive Cox Plate triumph.
Waller confirmed that both his horses have experienced ideal lead-up campaigns for the 2040m race. This year’s event will be held at Flemington, deviating from its traditional venue at Moonee Valley, which is currently undergoing renovations.
“It’s going to be a great race, as it is every year,” Waller remarked. “Birdman is very fit. His fitness was found out in the last 100 metres of his race last start, but he’s come through it well and is well prepared for Saturday’s Flemington Cox Plate. Aeliana is very similar. She was beaten on the wet track last start in a solid staying test as well. She’s ready to peak. She won a Tancred after winning a Ranvet a week earlier and hopefully she can get back to those ratings that saw her dominate the staying ranks in the autumn.”
Waller noted that the shift in venue to Flemington, offering a longer run to the first turn compared to Moonee Valley’s shorter approach, would be an interesting factor in the race’s dynamics.
Birdman has secured an advantageous draw from gate one, while Aeliana will start from barrier 10.
“It’s been good to read what people are saying about the race being at Flemington and the long run into the bend, compared to a short run at Moonee Valley,” Waller commented. “With the speed horses drawn out wide, the three-year-olds, one has drawn wide, one has drawn well, I think they’ll roll, and I would say every horse will get a good run. You might have to be further back if you’ve got a wide draw, but I couldn’t see anything getting caught three wide and it’s Flemington, they won’t come around the bend single file, they normally pack up a bit. It will be an intriguing race.”
For those looking to place a wager, the Australian betting sites will be offering competitive odds on the Cox Plate.