Racing
Autumn Glow out to lay another Epsom marker
The Theo Marks Stakes is the next step for untapped mare Autumn Glow.
Widely regarded as one of the most exciting horses in training, Autumn Glow heads to Rosehill chasing her sixth win in as many starts as she takes another step on her Epsom Handicap path.
The four-year-old returned with a classy victory in the Toy Show Quality (1100m) at Randwick last month despite not being entirely comfortable on the heavy 10 track.
She should strike less testing conditions in Saturday's Theo Marks Stakes (1300m) and trainer Chris Waller is keen to see her confirm she is on target for her Group 1 goal.
"Everything at home indicates that she is. I'm very happy with her," Waller said.
"That first run is pretty important to see they've come back well but also for fitness.
"The 1300 will probably suit her a little bit better than the 1100."
The mare will meet a competitive field led by Doncaster Mile third placegetter Encap, New Zealand visitor Pier and Spring Champion Stakes winner El Castello.
Such is Autumn Glow's reputation she has opened a $1.55 favourite, although Waller is playing down the hype until she has a chance to prove herself at the highest level.
"She shows some exciting things but we want to see her tick that Group One box before we start talking a bit more," he said.
"But she's got all the signs of a nice horse and we haven't found the ceiling with her yet."
Dynamic first-up performer Joliestar resumes for the stable in the Sheraco Stakes (1200m) having been beaten in the corresponding race 12 months ago as an odds-on favourite.
She was subsequently a luckless seventh in The Everest (1200m) before staking her sprint claims in the autumn with victory in the Newmarket Handicap (1200m) at Flemington.
Waller reported she had returned in great order and said the past year had taught them that riding her patiently was key.
"We don't need to bustle her to be in positions. That was her downfall this time last year," he said.
"She won first-up really well then we asked too much of her second up (in the 2024 Sheraco Stakes) and the rest of it was good runs each time.
"She's a more mature horse now and we've learned a bit more about her too."
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