Royal Ascot’s headline international runner is poised to ‘take on the world stage’ as the top Australian sprinter Joliestar begins her journey from Sydney to the prestigious five-day meeting.
Joliestar Heads Betting for Two Group 1 Sprints
The five-year-old mare, trained by Australia’s perennial champion trainer Chris Waller, is the 2-1 favourite for the £1 million Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes on June 20. She also tops the betting for the King Charles III Stakes, making her the standout international contender at the event.
Joliestar has amassed nearly £4.5 million in prize-money from ten wins, including five at Group 1 level. Her latest victory came in the Newmarket Handicap, a race that has previously served as a springboard to Royal Ascot glory for other Australian sprinters such as Takeover Target, Miss Andretti, Scenic Blast, and Black Caviar.
Waller’s Previous Royal Ascot Success
Chris Waller, best known for training the legendary Winx—who won 37 of 43 career starts, including her last 33 in succession—has tasted success at Royal Ascot before. He captured the King Charles III Stakes with Nature Strip in 2022 and came close to winning the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes in 2015 with runner-up Brazen Beau.
Joliestar is owned by New Zealand-based Cambridge Stud, which was also part-owner of the 2020 Queen Elizabeth winner Hello Youmzain. The mare is set to be partnered by top jockey James McDonald.
Trainer’s Progress Report
Providing an update on Joliestar’s preparation, Waller said: “The first box is ticked for @CambridgeStud Joliestar ahead of Royal Ascot in two weeks time, travelling safely to Melbourne overnight in the care of our trusty driver Bruno.
“While race day is the main event, the preparation beforehand is just as important. A big thank you to the @aus_turf_club for allowing us to use the Rosehill course proper this week for a jumpout alongside Fangirl, and to the @FlemingtonVRC who have also been fantastic in accommodating us to use Flemington next week ahead of her departure.
“It takes a huge team effort to give these horses every opportunity and we’re looking forward to seeing Joliestar board the plane and take on the world stage.”
