Trainer Chris Waller has taken an international approach to the preparation of high-class European import Via Sistina , hoping it can result in a first-up win in the March 23 Ranvet Stakes (G1) at Rosehill.
After watching William Haggas travel horses to Sydney with great success over the past few autumn carnivals, Waller is taking a leaf out of his book. “I kept a close eye on what Mr. Haggas has done with a few of his horses which have beaten Verry Elleegant a number of times,” the trainer told RacingNSW.
“He just gets it right every year. Firstly he brings the right horse. Secondly, he prepares them well and thirdly they cope with the trip. So she looks like she’s that type of horse. She’s thrived the last two weeks. She’s just going on the right path forward and I’ve been impressed with her.”
Via Sistina arrived in Sydney a few weeks ago with a record that included a top-level score in the 2023 Pretty Polly Stakes (G1) and a runner-up finish to King of Steel in last October’s Champion Stakes (G1) at Ascot.
She had sold to Evergreen Equine for 2.7 million guineas (US$3,581,316) at the 2023 Tattersalls December Mare Sale, having cost Stephen Hillen just 5,000gns (US$6,751) from the December Yearling Sale around four years previously.
Via Sistina in the ring at the 2023 Tattersalls December Mares Sale
“I’ve been lucky enough to see King of Steel race in person a couple of times and he’s a big deal,” Waller said. “Arguably she should have beaten him last start on a similar type of track at the same distance. If she brings that form it’ll be exciting.”
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