James McDonald has one last shot to equal the Australian record for most Group 1 wins in a season when he rides Firestorm in Saturday’s Tattersall’s Tiara.
The champion jockey has 15 majors for the 2024-25 term and a win in the Eagle Farm feature would match Malcolm Johnston’s 1979-80 mark of 16.
Despite drawing barrier 19, Firestorm remains a $4.20 favourite and is one of up to four Chris Waller-trained runners, alongside Olentia, Konasana and emergency Gumdrops.
Waller’s assistant Charlie Duckworth says Firestorm just needs speed in the race.
“She has got exceptional form behind Lady Shenandoah in the Coolmore Classic… she needs a bit of tempo on,” Duckworth said.
The mare won the Millie Fox Stakes, placed second in the Coolmore, and closed late for third behind Floozie in the Dane Ripper Stakes.
“James is only riding three on the day so he is going to have to make them all count,” Duckworth added.
Konasana and Olentia also remain under watch as potential threats.