Chris Waller looks poised to claim another Group 1 victory in the Queen of the Turf Stakes 2024 this Saturday at Royal Randwick.

Zougotcha chases back-to-back Group 1 Sydney wins when she lines-up favourite in the 2024 Queen Of The Turf Stakes field this weekend. Photo: Steve Hart.

Zougotcha, the stable’s star four-year-old, is the current favorite at $3.80 with Ladbrokes.

This year’s Queen of the Turf Stakes (1600m) is one of the four elite-level races featured on Day 2 of The Championships in Sydney.

Waller boasts four entries, with Zougotcha leading the charge.

Originally slated to run in the Doncaster Mile last weekend, Zougotcha was scratched due to the heavy track conditions.

This Queen of the Turf Stakes entry presents a golden opportunity for the Zoustar mare to secure her third consecutive win.

Zougotcha boasts an impressive record at Randwick (three wins from seven starts), and jockey James McDonald retains the ride.

Starting from the coveted inside barrier (one), the pair is a formidable force to be reckoned with.

Waller has additional contenders in the race, including the reigning champion Atishu.

A back-to-back victory for Atishu would mark a historic feat, with More Joyous (2011-2012) the latest to achieve this accomplishment in the Queen of the Turf Stakes.

However, Atishu is also entered in the Group 1 $5 million Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2000m), so a final decision on her participation awaits.

Waller’s other entries are Olentia ($9) and Madame Pommery ($51).

Olentia, another talented four-year-old by Zoustar, has strong recent form, including a dominant win in the Group 2 Emancipation Stakes.

The challenge for Zougotcha won’t be insignificant.

Tropical Squall ($7), trained by Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott, is a strong contender.

This filly by Prized Icon finished a close fourth to Zougotcha in the Coolmore Classic, and a better barrier draw this time around (three) could give her an edge.

Co-trainer Waterhouse has a rich history in the Queen of the Turf Stakes, boasting eight victories, and will be looking to add another with Tropical Squall.

Other notable entries include Makarena ($9), representing Team Hawkes.

The Queen of the Turf Stakes promises an exciting race, with Zougotcha aiming to maintain her winning streak and Waller strategizing for potential glory.

2024 Queen Of The Turf Stakes Field

Table Credit: Racing Australia.

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