Spring Insider
The Last Dance - Via Sistina enters her name into racing folklore
Via Sistina delivered a spine-tingling performance at the 2025 Cox Plate, the final edition to be run at the hallowed Moonee Valley base. The eight-year-old mare, trained by Chris Waller and ridden by James McDonald, sat off the pace before unleashing her trademark turn of foot in the straight to narrowly defeat stablemate Buckaroo in a dramatic photo finish.
Her versatility and class were once again on display as she made the leap to become a dual Cox Plate winner, joining the sport’s elite. The field of nine provided a stern challenge, yet Via Sistina’s experience and late charge proved decisive as she avoided the front-running tactics others attempted and surged home under pressure.
This win not only cements her remarkable weight-for-age credentials but also underlines Waller’s mastery of the preparation and McDonald’s composure aboard a champion. With the Valley about to undergo major redevelopment, Via Sistina’s consecutive Cox Plate triumphs are a fitting finale to the venue’s legacy and an enduring reminder of her extraordinary ability.
The Enchanter - Review
The Enchanter was the Crimson Army’s lone runner at Doomben on Saturday and showed enormous fight to finish second after a tough run. He was slow into stride and had to be urged along throughout, but when it looked as though he was beaten on the turn, he dug in and found another gear late. His determination and will to compete were on full display, and it’s clear he has more to offer as he continues to progress through his campaign. The team remains confident that The Enchanter is ready to convert his effort into victory next start.
Charcoals form proves strong
Charcoals might be on a well-earned break, but the form out of the Apache Cat Classic at Cranbourne continues to impress at stakes level. The winner, Jigsaw, has since claimed the Group 2 McEwen Stakes by 1.75 lengths, beating Klabel, who finished third in the Apache Cat. The pair also crossed the line ahead of dual Group 1 winner Charm Stone. Charcoals finished fourth in that same race, holding his own against genuine stakes-class company. The son of Too Darn Hot continues to develop and improve each time he steps out, and his latest form line suggests he’ll be right at home in stakes company next preparation. Congratulations to all owners, you’ve got a serious horse on your hands.
Group 2 winner emerges from Thousand Guineas
Salty Pearl claimed the Group 2 3 Point Motors Fillies Classic with a brave ride from Ben Allen, showing both class and determination to hold off her rivals. The filly had previously finished fourth in the Thousand Guineas, a race that is proving to be a strong form reference, with Apocalyptic narrowly beaten by Ole Dancer on that occasion. Seeing a subsequent stakes winner emerge from the Thousand Guineas only reinforces what we already know: Apocalyptic is among the elite fillies of her generation, and her performances this spring have well and truly stamped her as one of the best in the country.
Pure Arrogance from Observer
Observer has stamped himself as the clear favourite for this weekend’s Victoria Derby after a dominant win in the Moonee Valley Vase, showcasing his staying power and class. Standing in his path is our very own Engine Of War, who has taken significant strides forward since his last run in the Caulfield Classic. The stable has made key gear adjustments, including the addition of blinkers, and the improvement in his trackwork has been sharp.
Observer may be the one they’re chasing, but we’re confident our son of Circus Maximus can rise to the challenge and announce himself as one of Victoria’s most exciting young stayers.
This weekend presents a unique opportunity for owners — we’re giving away 9 shares in Engine Of War, our Derby contender! All you need to do is buy two shares in Transcend, who is set to race at Randwick on Golden Eagle Day. That means the chance to own not one but two runners, and potentially two winners, in the same weekend!
Click here to get your shares in Transcend and go into the running. The more shares you own, the more entries you have!