2025 Empire Rose Stakes Preview

Posted on October 31, 2025October 31, 2025 | Posted by TABtouch

The Empire Rose Stakes, a Group 1 mile contest for fillies and mares, is a highlight of Flemington’s Derby Day this Saturday. With $1 million in prize money and a field stacked with talent, this year’s edition promises a thrilling finish to a blockbuster day of racing.

Here’s your comprehensive runner-by-runner guide to the 2025 Empire Rose Stakes:

1. Pride Of Jenni (Barrier 7)

Trainer: Ciaron Maher
Jockey: Declan Bates

The champion returns after a solid spring prep, including a win in the Feehan Stakes. She’s expected to lead and dictate terms, which suits her bold front-running style. A genuine winning chance.

2. Fangirl (Barrier 6)

Trainer: Chris Waller
Jockey: Kerrin McEvoy

A four-time Group 1 winner and the early favourite. Forgive her last run in the King Charles III Stakes, she was caught back and never got into the race. Back against mares and drawn well, she’s a class act.

3. Abounding (Barrier 1)

Trainer: Robert Heathcote
Jockey: Jamie Melham

Fresh off a win in the Tristarc Stakes, she’s drawn ideally and has tactical speed. The step up to 1600m is a query, but she’s in form and could surprise.

4. Damask Rose (Barrier 9)

Trainer: Mark Walker
Jockey: Blake Shinn

Back to mares grade after racing against the boys. She was unlucky in the Toorak and should be strong late. A solid place chance.

5. Benagil (Barrier 4)

Trainer: Glen Thompson
Jockey: Craig Williams

Winner of the Australasian Oaks earlier this year. She’s been set for this race and could run a cheeky one at odds.

6. Leica Lucy (Barrier 3)

Trainer: Chris Waller
Jockey: Mark Zahra

The New Zealand Oaks winner has returned in great order. She closed strongly in the Toorak and looks ready to peak third-up. A top contender.

7. Lazzura (Barrier 11)

Trainer: Chris Waller
Jockey: Tommy Berry

Has shown brilliance fresh and boasts wins at Group 2 and Group 3 level. The wide draw is a challenge, but she’s not without claims.

8. Firestorm (Barrier 8)

Trainer: Chris Waller
Jockey: Adam Hyeronimus

Backing up from The Invitation last week. She’s a knockout chance if she can reproduce her best.

9. Splash Back (Barrier 10)

Trainer: Grahame Begg
Jockey: Jordan Childs

Consistent metro performer with three wins this campaign. She’s honest but may find this level a stretch.

10. Idle Flyer (Barrier 5)

Trainer: Matthew Smith
Jockey: Michael Dee

Flying this prep. Won the Group 3 Angst Stakes at Randwick on Everest Day, clocking 1:33.70 for the mile and a last 600m in 34.5 – quicker than Ceolwulf winning run in the King Charles III Stakes on the same day. She’s well placed and could be the value runner.

11. On Display (Barrier 2)

Trainer: Mick Price & Michael Kent Jnr
Jockey: Ben Melham

Forgive her last run in the Rose Of Kingston Stakes. A deeper look at the sectionals revealed she had no chance of getting involved due to the race shape and tempo. Kept fresh and drawn well, she’s an each-way play.

Top Picks

• Best Bet: Fangirl
• Value Play: Leica Lucy
• Each-Way Chance: On Display

With a mix of proven Group 1 performers and emerging talent, the 2025 Empire Rose Stakes is set to deliver a thrilling contest. Whether you’re punting or just enjoying the spectacle, this race is one not to miss.