Group 1 racing returns to Flemington on Saturday, with a high-quality Makybe Diva Stakes field set to headline the 10-race card.
The 1600-metre weight-for-age feature has attracted Mr Brightside, Aeliana, Treasurethe Moment, Half Yours and Sir Delius among a strong group of potential starters.
Chris Waller holds a powerful hand with Aeliana, Autumn Boy, Birdman, Buckaroo and Ohope Wins entered, although Birdman or Buckaroo could instead tackle the Underwood Stakes.
Another Wil and Light Infantry Man give Ciaron Maher two nominations, while She’s A Hustler and Sheza Alibi add further interest to the Group 1.
There is significant depth across the Flemington program, with five other black-type contests scheduled.
The Group 2 Let’s Elope Stakes and Bobbie Lewis Quality are joined by three Group 3 races, including the Archer Stakes, where victory guarantees a place in this year’s Melbourne Cup.
Likely Field for the Makybe Diva Stakes
| Horse | Trainer | Jockey |
|---|---|---|
| Aeliana | Chris Waller | |
| Another Wil | Ciaron Maher | |
| Autumn Boy | Chris Waller | |
| Birdman | Chris Waller | |
| Buckaroo | Chris Waller | |
| Half Yours | Tony and Calvin McEvoy | Jamie Melham |
| Light Infantry Man | Ciaron Maher | |
| Mr Brightside | Ben, Will and JD Hayes | Blake Shinn |
| Ohope Wins | Chris Waller | |
| She’s A Hustler | Grahame Begg | |
| Sheza Alibi | Peter Moody and Katherine Coleman | Luke Nolen |
| Sir Delius | Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott | Craig Williams |
| Treasurethe Moment | Matt Laurie | Damian Lane |