Winx will be aiming for her 14th straight win in Saturday's Apollo Stakes
The world’s best horse on turf won’t lack for opposition in her comeback with 16 horses entered to take on Winx in the Group Two Apollo Stakes at Randwick.
Winx will be aiming for her 14th straight win in Saturday’s 1400m-race, her first since she defended her Cox Plate crown in October.
Bookmakers believe she will keep her winning streak intact, posting her at $1.20 in first markets.
Trainer Chris Waller says the mare is spot-on for her return.
“She is in great shape and we are happy with where she is at,” Waller said.
Late last month Winx was officially confirmed as the world’s best on turf and the third best in the world behind Americans Arrogate and California Chrome.
Australia’s next highest rated horse, Godolphin’s Hartnell, is also nominated for the Apollo.
He finished eight lengths behind Winx in the Cox Plate.
Also among the nominations are five of Winx’s stablemates, mostly stayers including 2015 Sydney Cup winner Grand Marshal.
“Endless Drama and Grand Marshal will run and I’m keen to start Libran because he has had a long time off,” Waller said.
Libran hasn’t raced since he finished second to Gallante in last year’s Sydney Cup.
Waller will wait until Wednesday morning to confirm whether Omei Sword takes her place in the Group Two Light Fingers Stakes (1200m) for fillies.
The Golden Rose runner-up, Omei Sword missed a scheduled start in Saturday’s Eskimo Prince Stakes when she was found to have a slight muscle issue.
“She seems fine and will work on Tuesday morning,” he said.
“We will to see how she comes through the gallop and make a final decision on Wednesday.”
Omei Sword is the early $2.70 favourite for the Light Fingers ahead of dual Group One winner Global Glamour who is at $4.60 and also entered for the Apollo.
