Autumn Glow: Championships Target Confirmed & Future Plans

March 24, 2026 Alex Carter - Sports Editor Sport

Star mare Autumn Glow will contest the Group 1 Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Royal Randwick next month, trainer Chris Waller confirmed Tuesday, ending speculation about a potential start in either the Doncaster Mile or Queen Of The Turf Stakes.

The decision, made following discussions with owners Arrowfield Stud and Hermitage Thoroughbreds, sets the stage for Autumn Glow to be stretched out to 2000 meters for the first time in her career. Waller stated the stable was “very pleased with how she has come through the impressive George Ryder Stakes victory,” according to a press release. He added that both he and jockey James McDonald were impressed by her ability to relax during races and her recovery afterward.

Autumn Glow has remained undefeated through 11 consecutive races, most recently dominating the Group 1 George Ryder Stakes at Rosehill Gardens. The Queen Elizabeth Stakes, worth $5 million, will be held on the second day of The Championships.

News of Autumn Glow’s target race saw her TAB betting odds tighten from $1.60 to $1.50, although the Doncaster Mile market was reshaped. Filly Sheza Alibi shortened to even money, with Waller’s three-year-old Autumn Boy at $5.

The decision means a highly anticipated clash between Autumn Glow and Sheza Alibi in the Doncaster Mile will not occur. Katherine Coleman, training partner of Peter Moody, acknowledged the disappointment but stated it was outside their control. “We have a whole lot of respect for her and Chris Waller’s stable, in general,” Coleman said.

Sheza Alibi recently underwent a jumpout at Cranbourne, with jockey Jamie Melham getting his first feel of the Randwick Guineas winner. Coleman reported Melham was pleased with the mare’s relaxed demeanor and strong finish. “She was lovely and relaxed,” Coleman said. “Her operate late, through the line was really good, going on to win the trial nicely.”

Waller confirmed the Queen Elizabeth Stakes is Autumn Glow’s final run of the preparation, scheduled for April 11.