Aeliana’s Spring Ambitions: Flemington First, Cups Later?

Posted on September 11, 2025September 11, 2025 | Posted by TABtouch

As the Spring racing season heats up, Aeliana continues to stir excitement across the industry. Chris Waller’s rising 4-year-old is set to take on her biggest challenge yet in this Saturday’s Group 1 Makybe Diva Stakes at Flemington. But while the spotlight is firmly on her clash with stablemate Via Sistina, the long-term question remains – will Aeliana take her place in the Caulfield Cup?

Aeliana’s first-up run in the Winx Stakes was nothing short of sensational. She pushed Via Sistina to the limit, finishing just a neck behind the reigning Australian Racehorse of the Year. That performance has set the stage for a thrilling rematch in the Makybe Diva Stakes.

Via Sistina was originally set to run in Sydney’s 7 Stakes, but was rerouted after stablemate Treasurethe Moment was ruled out due to a mild bout of colic. With the line-up now featuring James McDonald aboard Via Sistina and Damian Lane steering Aeliana, this year’s Makybe Diva promises to be a tactical battle.

McDonald has acknowledged Aeliana as the biggest threat to Via Sistina, noting that she gave the champion mare a real scare in their last meeting. Saturday will be a crucial test for Aeliana, not just in terms of form, but also in shaping her spring trajectory.

Despite being a top hope for the Caulfield Cup, Waller has expressed caution about committing Aeliana to the 2400m contest. His concern lies in preserving her speed and versatility, rather than turning her into a pure stayer too early in her career. Waller is wary of the pressure and physical toll that the Caulfield Cup can impose on young mares, especially those still developing after a breakout season.

Aeliana’s owner, Denise Martin of Star Thoroughbreds, remains open-minded. She’s letting Waller steer the ship but admits the idea of a Caulfield Cup run is tantalising, especially after Aeliana’s dominant 5-length win in the Australian Derby earlier this year.

If Aeliana does take her place in the Caulfield Cup, she’ll likely face Buckaroo, the current favourite and last year’s runner-up. The 7-year-old gelding (also trained by Waller) has firmed in betting after a strong third in the Memsie Stakes.

Aeliana and Buckaroo represent very different profiles – one an emerging star, the other a seasoned campaigner. Should they meet in the Caulfield Cup, it would be a fascinating clash of styles and strategies.