Via Sistina is expected to arrive in Melbourne soon to prepare for the G1 Makybe Diva Stakes at Flemington on September 14. If she makes the trip, the mare is likely to stay for the entire spring, targeting major races such as the Cox Plate, Champions Stakes, and possibly the Turnbull Stakes. Via Sistina, who won the G1 Winx Stakes in Sydney last month, is currently the $2.80 favourite for the Makybe Diva Stakes with bookmakers.
Trainer Chris Waller has indicated he is unlikely to shuttle Via Sistina between Sydney and Melbourne, preferring a focused campaign in one city. “I don’t like going backwards and forwards too much,” Waller explained, though he has not ruled out the G1 King Charles III Stakes at Randwick.
Via Sistina is the $4 favourite for the Cox Plate, while Pride Of Jenni has eased to $8 following her defeat in the Memsie Stakes.