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Source: Racingaustralia.horse
Reigning Queen of the turf and crowd favourite, Via Sistina was officially crowned Australian Racehorse of the Year after her trail blazing season in which she amassed seven Group 1’s, proving her sheer dominance on the track and widespread admiration with the judges.
‘The Star’ Brisbane played host to Racing’s premier event yesterday, with the Yulong super mare claiming a resounding 202 votes out of a possible 204. Via Sistina was in esteemed company with her nearest rivals in the overall Champion Racehorse of the Year category with Everest sensation Bella Nipotina on 75 votes and dual Oaks heroine, Treasurethe Moment on 43 votes.
To rousing applause, Via Sistina the also took out the coveted Champion Middle Distance Category which was no surprise after James McDonald steered her to emphatic victories in the Cox Plate, the Champions and the Queen Elizabeth Stakes in the Autumn.
Masterfully trained by Chris Waller, who also clinched his 13th straight Champion Group 1 Trainer Award, Via Sistina wrote herself into the history books with a commanding 203 votes in the Middle-Distance category over the much-loved Mr Brightside on 79 votes and Doomben Cup winner Antino on 58 votes.
In addition to our equine stars, Chris Waller had an incredible season with a grand tally of 19 group 1’s making this his 13th straight Award for Champion Group 1Trainer with his highlight reel showcasing the greats: Via Sistina, Lady Shenandoah, Aeliana, Fangirl and Autumn Glow.
Champion hoop James McDonald continues to dominate amassing 15 Group 1’s for the 2024 / 2025 racing season taking out the title of Champion Group 1 Jockey for the fifth straight year.
Widden Stud’s Zoustar has ended I am Invincible’s reign as Champion Sire with his progeny’s stakes earnings at just over $26M for the 2024/2025 Season.
The Racehorse of the Year awards acknowledge performances on Australian racecourses, as well as international performances by Australian-trained horses for the period from 1 August 2024 to 31 July 2025. The Judging panel comprises of Racing Media, Handicappers and form analysts from around Australia.