Site crafted and built by Kick Collective
A standout alliance from the racing world is gearing up for one of the sport’s most inspiring off-track initiatives. Team Via Sistina will take its place in Tour d’Horse 2026, representing elite racing connections while supporting the life-changing work of the KIDS Foundation.
Champion trainer Chris Waller and global thoroughbred powerhouse Yulong Stud have joined forces to enter Team Via Sistina at this year’s event, uniting the story of one of Australia’s greatest racehorses with a challenge that raises awareness and funds for children and families affected by trauma.
Via Sistina, the extraordinary Irish-bred mare, etched her place in Australian racing history with back-to-back victories in the WS Cox Plate, Australia’s premier weight-for-age championship, guided by champion jockey James McDonald. Her career also includes 12 Group 1 wins and more than $19 million in prize earnings, cementing her status as one of the most accomplished performers of her generation.
Chris Waller reflected on Via Sistina’s extraordinary career and the opportunity to see her name associated with a cause-driven initiative.
“Via Sistina’s remarkable career reflects sheer determination, class and heart. Her partnership with James McDonald and the support of Yulong Stud made her journey unforgettable. She gave everything every time she stepped onto the track. To see her name now connected to a cause that supports children facing unimaginable challenges feels incredibly meaningful. It is a continuation of the inspiration, courage and resilience she showed throughout her career,” Waller said.
Yulong General Manager Jun Zhang spoke of the organisation’s long-term commitment to both the racing industry and the wider community.
“At Yulong, our vision extends beyond performance on the racetrack. Excellence carries responsibility. Participating in Tour d’Horse with Team Via Sistina allows us to unite the strength and spirit of racing with meaningful community impact. We are proud to stand alongside Chris Waller and the broader industry to support the KIDS Foundation and contribute to lasting change for children and families who need it most,” Zhang said.
Founder and CEO of the KIDS Foundation Dr Susie O’Neill OAM welcomed the partnership and the powerful symbolism behind Team Via Sistina’s involvement.
“Via Sistina represents partnership, trust and extraordinary resilience, qualities we work to nurture in every child who comes through our programs. When leaders from our racing community step forward in this way, it sends a powerful message to our young people that they are seen, supported and valued. This partnership is not just symbolic, it is transformational, and we are so grateful to Chris Waller Racing and Yulong Stud for their support,” Dr O’Neill said.
Tour d’Horse is the annual major fundraiser for the KIDS Foundation. It is a six-day mounted endurance challenge held in the Upper Hunter Valley. Riders traverse
challenging terrain across Belltrees Station and surrounding country at a walking pace, partnered with retired racehorses. Built on trust, resilience and partnership, the event reflects the values shared by both the racing industry and the children supported by the Foundation.
All funds raised directly support trauma recovery, injury prevention, equine-assisted wellbeing programs and essential services for children and families across Australia. Last year’s event raised more than $1 million for the charity.
Tour d’Horse 2026 will run from 11 – 17 May. For more information, visit kidsfoundation.org.au