Via Sistina enters as the overwhelming favourite for the 2000-metre stakes race, opening at incredibly short odds.
The Chris Waller-trained mare boasts an impressive record with James McDonald aboard, having secured two wins from three starts together.
The combination's success stems from their proven ability at this track and distance, having claimed this race twelve months ago following a Cox Plate triumph.
McDonald's tactical brilliance was evident in the Cox Plate victory, positioning Via Sistina perfectly on a challenging wet track to defeat Treasure of The Moment.
Her recent form suggests she's primed for another strong performance, with the mare demonstrating the quality that has made her a dual Cox Plate winner.
The partnership's consistency is remarkable - McDonald has guided her to a top-three finish in all but one of their collaborations.
Following the same pattern as last year's campaign, Via Sistina appears well-placed to complete the Cox Plate-MacKinnon Stakes double once again.