Reigning Australian Horse of the Year Via Sistina has added another accolade to her glittering career, claiming her 12th Group 1 win with a commanding display in the Champions Stakes (2000m) at Flemington.

The $1.80 favourite relished the heavy conditions, cruising three-wide with cover under James McDonald before powering clear to score by 2-3/4 lengths over Zambardo ($14), with Tom Kitten ($10) narrowly holding third.

Having also captured a second straight W S Cox Plate (2040m) last start, trainer Chris Waller said it was “awesome” to see the superstar mare shine again.

“She was tough today… James didn’t panic and it was awesome to see her in the straight,” Waller said.

The win also marked the 50th Group 1 triumph together for Waller and McDonald.

“She deserves her champion status,” McDonald said. “She sits alongside some of the greats to grace our racetracks.”