Via Sistina is showing strong progress, according to trainer Chris Waller, with a solid track gallop at Randwick on Saturday. The Cox Plate-winning mare, along with stablemates Fangirl and Atishu, will contest the Group 2 Apollo Stakes (1400m) at Randwick this Saturday.

“First-up over 1400 metres could expose a weakness in Via Sistina,” Waller commented.

Waller expressed satisfaction with the track work, noting that the horses were in good rhythm. Despite her record-breaking Cox Plate win, he added, “It’s business as usual now.”

Via Sistina looked fit as she walked through the Randwick tunnel. James McDonald guided her through a 1000-metre gallop, with the mare picking up speed towards the final furlong.

Waller highlighted that Via Sistina has acclimatised better since her first preparation, where she arrived slightly off the plane. “She’s relaxed, happy, and well-prepared,” he added.

Her upcoming Group One campaign includes the Chipping Norton Stakes (1600m) and the Ranvet Stakes (2000m) as potential targets.

Fangirl and Atishu, who also galloped at Randwick, are set for autumn campaigns, with the All-Star Mile a possible target for Fangirl.