Derby Day at Flemington promises another chapter in trainer Chris Waller‘s dominance, with his mare Atishu leading the charge in the Group 1 Empire Rose Stakes (1600m).

Atish is favourite to return to Group 1 winning form in the 2024 Empire Rose Stakes at Flemington this weekend. Photo: Steve Hart.

A two-time Group 1 winner, Atishu seeks her third elite-level victory.

Waller previously conquered the Empire Rose Stakes with Red Tracer (2013) and Shillelagh (2018).

Last year, Atishu came agonisingly close, finishing runner-up to Pride Of Jenni.

She bounced back a week later with a win in the VRC Champions Stakes.

Now a seven-year-old, Atishu returns for her third consecutive Empire Rose Stakes attempt.

Following some solid lead-up runs, including a last-start third in the Group 1 Might And Power, Atishu is the current favourite at $4.40 in the Empire Rose Stakes odds at Ladbrokes.

James McDonald will be in the saddle as she looks to break through from barrier nine.

Former WA champion Amelia’s Jewel emerges as a significant threat at $5.50 on the second line of Empire Rose Stakes betting.

Now trained by Annabel Neasham & Rob Archibald, this five-year-old mare is partnered with jockey Jamie Kah.

While winless since last September’s Group 2 Stocks Stakes, Amelia’s Jewel boasts consistent form, including a Golden Pendant second and a recent fifth in the King Charles III Stakes.

Drawn perfectly in barrier two, Amelia’s Jewel looks poised for a strong showing.

New Zealand raider Orchestral enters the race at $7.

This Savabeel mare enjoyed a dominant run earlier this year, winning five consecutive races, including the Group 1 NZ Derby and the Group 1 Vinery Stud Stakes.

Following a close third in the ATC Oaks, her form has dipped with two consecutive sixth-place finishes.

Despite a disappointing Toorak run, Orchestral remains a contender, partnered with Mark Zahra from barrier 12.

Symon Wilde‘s Plenty Of Ammo is an early market mover, currently priced at $7.

This consistent mare, daughter of 2008 Derby winner Rebel Raider, comes off a strong second in the Group 2 Crystal Mile.

Her fitness and good record over the mile distance make her a force to be reckoned with.

The 2024 Empire Rose Stakes promises an exciting clash.

Will Atishu finally claim victory? Can Amelia’s Jewel overcome her recent winless streak? Or will Orchestral or Plenty Of Ammo cause an upset?

The answer will be revealed on Derby Day as these talented mares battle it out for Empire Rose Stakes glory in Flemington Race 8 at 5:00pm (AEDT).

2024 Empire Rose Stakes Field

Table Credit: Racing Australia.

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