Twelve months after a brilliant Australian debut, Via Sistina has claimed back-to-back victories in the Ranvet Stakes at Rosehill.
The mare has since notched up five more wins, including last year’s Cox Plate, solidifying her status as one of the top horses in training.
Trainer Chris Waller, who was uncertain of her full potential last year, now describes her as a star. “She has lit up our lives,” Waller said.
Via Sistina, ridden by James McDonald, settled midfield before powering through the field to win by 1-1/2 lengths, ahead of stablemate Lindermann ($11) and Fawkner Park ($15).
Waller confirmed the mare would next head to the Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2000m) at Randwick, where she finished second last year. He believes Saturday’s performance has set her up perfectly for the race ahead.
“She knows how to perform when the pressure comes,” Waller said, confident there’s more to come.