Denise Martin’s Star Thoroughbreds, a syndication powerhouse with a history of Group One wins, is aiming for a Sydney classic in the ATC Australian Derby (2400m) at Randwick on Saturday.
Aeliana, the favourite in the race, will carry Star’s familiar purple and white stars. Martin, who has tasted success in races like the Golden Slipper and Flight Stakes, has long dreamed of winning a Derby.
“I have longed to win a Derby and didn’t think it would really be possible because we tend not to buy stamina-type horses,” Martin said.
The acquisition of Aeliana, a relative of Star’s former top mare Invincibella, began when trainer Chris Waller spotted her at the Karaka Sales and contacted Martin.
“I trusted his judgement,” Martin said, recalling Waller’s recommendation. Aeliana, initially light-framed, was given time to develop.
The filly’s path to success took an unexpected turn when three women at a spelling farm visit ended up taking shares, two of them inspired by her markings.
So far, Aeliana has raced nine times, securing three wins and two Group 1 placings, including a narrow second in the Rosehill Guineas (2000m).
Martin would be thrilled to win the Derby: “It would be so magical to win a Derby. It would be extraordinary and I’m just so excited to be there with a major chance.”