Champion Australian trainer Chris Waller has confirmed that his five-time Group 1 winner, Joliestar, is in peak condition ahead of Saturday’s Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot. Waller, who was present in Britain on Monday morning, observed Joliestar in a light workout as she prepares to represent Australasian racing in the prestigious 1200-metre sprint event.

Joliestar enters the race unbeaten in three starts this year, including two Group 1 victories. She is currently the $2.50 favorite for the Jubilee, with Japan’s seven-year-old Satono Reve, fresh off a runner-up finish in the Group 1 Chairman’s Sprint Prize at Sha Tin in April, positioned as her main rival at $6.

A victory for Joliestar would place her among an elite group of Australian-trained sprinters who have won at Royal Ascot. Notably, Choisir claimed the event in 2003, followed by the legendary mare Black Caviar’s dramatic triumph in 2012. Such a result would also extend Waller’s flawless record at the British carnival, following Nature Strip’s win in the King Charles III Stakes over 1006 metres last year.

Speaking after the workout, Waller acknowledged the challenges of the long journey but expressed satisfaction with the mare’s current form. “It was a big trip and she did lose a little bit of weight on the flight, but she’s put it back on, and, yeah, I was really pleased with how she looks,” he said. “She’s nice and relaxed, eating well, cantering well. Couldn’t be happier. It’s all systems go for Saturday.”

The Royal Ascot sprint program will commence for the Australian contingent on Tuesday night (AEST) when Overpass and Asfoora compete in the King Charles III Stakes. Waller emphasized caution but remained confident in Joliestar’s capabilities: “We don’t get too far ahead of ourselves, she’s good enough to win the race, there’s no doubting that. But every step has been a big one, and she seems to be coping well, so she’ll get a chance to show everybody what she can do on Saturday.”

The Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes represents a significant international challenge, with top sprinters from multiple countries set to contest the straight 1200 metres at Ascot. Joliestar’s performance will be closely watched as she seeks to continue Australia’s strong tradition in the event.