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| Staff Writer |
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Champion trainer Chris Waller has confirmed that brilliant mare Joliestar will represent his slot in next month's US$12.9 million Gr.1 The Everest at Royal Randwick, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling contest in the world's richest turf race.
Waller, a two-time The Everest winner, is no stranger to success in this prestigious event. The trainer, who manages his slot with longtime supporters Neville and Jenny Morgan, Peter and Patricia Tighe, Noel and Maria Greenhalgh and Ingham Racing, made the announcement on Wednesday morning, sparking excitement among racing enthusiasts.
Joliestar, raced by prominent Kiwi breeders Brendan and Jo Lindsay of Cambridge Stud, has been turning heads with her recent performances. The 4YO mare put herself in contention for an Everest berth with a brilliant first-up victory in the Group Three Show County Quality (1100m) at Rosehill. She followed this up with a gutsy third-place finish in the Group Two Sheraco Stakes, further cementing her credentials.
With Joliestar's confirmation, the field for The Everest is becoming increasingly competitive. She joins fellow mares I Wish I Win, Bella Nipotina, and Bustling as confirmed starters. Stefi Magnetica, recently secured by Newgate Farm, and Sunshine In Paris, expected to run in John Camilleri's Fairway Thoroughbred slot, round out an impressive line-up of female talent in the race.
The Everest, despite its relatively short history, has already produced some memorable moments. Redzel claimed the inaugural running in 2017 and successfully defended his title in 2018. Yes Yes Yes set a track record in his 2019 victory, while Nature Strip dominated in 2021 and Giga Kick caused an upset in 2022.
Waller's stable expressed confidence in Joliestar's abilities, stating, "A proven elite performer at three, Joliestar has returned as a 4YO with dynamic performances, showing her talent with a dominant victory in the Group Three Show County Quality, followed by a gutsy second-up effort in the Group Two Sheraco Stakes. She is a mare that looks to have it all before her and we are delighted to have her represent our slot in the world's richest turf race."
Preparation for the Big Day
In a strategic move, Waller has decided to skip this Saturday's Group Two US$258,000 Golden Pendant (1400m) at Rosehill, opting instead for a fresh approach to The Everest. Joliestar is now scheduled to trial on 8 October, giving her the perfect preparation for the main event on 19 October.
As the anticipation builds for The Everest, all eyes will be on Joliestar and her connections. With her recent form and the backing of a champion trainer, she stands poised to make a significant impact in this year's running of Australia's richest race.