Royal Ascot preparations stepped up a notch on Friday morning as leading Australian sprinters Joliestar and Overpass were put through their paces on the Ascot track for the first time, offering connections an early glimpse of what lies ahead next week.
Joliestar Royal Ascot preparation
The visit marked a significant step in the build-up to two of the meeting’s marquee sprint contests, with Overpass set to line up in Tuesday’s King Charles III Stakes and Joliestar aimed at Saturday’s Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes.
Joliestar, trained by Chris Waller, arrived with a formidable reputation from Australia, where she has built an imposing record with five Group 1 victories. Her résumé includes top-level success in the Thousand Guineas over a mile as well as elite sprint triumphs in the 2025 Newmarket Handicap and 2026 TJ Smith Stakes.
There is a growing sense of anticipation around her Royal Ascot challenge, and her connections believe her versatility could prove key over the stiff six-furlong test. The Joliestar Royal Ascot preparation has been carefully managed since her arrival in Britain just over a week ago.
Waller’s assistant Charlie Duckworth described the morning’s work as an educational outing rather than a searching gallop, with Joliestar covering 800 metres and finishing with controlled acceleration after an initial steady build-up.
He said the priority was familiarity with the surroundings, including the parade ring and pre-parade area, as much as the physical effort itself. With another piece of work planned before race day, he noted that the filly continues to arrive in strong form, having strung together three consecutive Group 1 wins in Australia.
Duckworth also highlighted her ability to compete at the highest level across different distances, referencing her Guineas success as a three-year-old as evidence of her stamina reserves. That blend of speed and endurance, he suggested, gives her a solid platform for the demands of Ascot’s straight sprint course.
Owner Cambridge Stud, represented on course by Sir Brendan and Lady Jo Lindsay, were also on hand to witness the gallop. The New Zealand operation has already tasted Royal Ascot success in partnership, most notably with Hello Youmzain, and returns with renewed ambition.
Lady Jo Lindsay spoke candidly about the emotions surrounding a favourite heading into such a prestigious assignment, describing both excitement and understandable nerves. She reflected on watching past triumphs from afar and expressed delight at being present in person this time.
Sir Brendan Lindsay, meanwhile, praised the mare’s professionalism and consistency at the top level, noting her five Group 1 victories as a clear indicator of her class. He added that her future plans beyond Ascot remain open, with focus firmly on the immediate challenge.
Attention later turned to Overpass, who also had his first look at Ascot ahead of his King Charles III Stakes assignment for trainer Bjorn Baker.
Overpass, a proven performer in Australia with back-to-back Winterbottom Stakes victories, has built a reputation as a powerful and consistent sprinter. He also finished fourth behind Joliestar in the TJ Smith Stakes earlier this season.
His morning exercise was designed to serve two purposes: a sharp fitness hit-out and an introduction to the unique environment of the Royal meeting. Baker explained that the experience around the paddock and mounting yard was an important part of the preparation process.
The Joliestar Royal Ascot preparation narrative has naturally drawn comparisons with Overpass, who also benefited from a steady yet purposeful gallop designed to sharpen him without overexertion.
Jockey Josh Parr reported satisfaction with the way Overpass handled the track, particularly noting his composure and ability to settle into the surroundings. He added that the gallop provided the ideal final piece of serious work ahead of Tuesday’s race, with the gelding finishing off his exercise in strong style.
Trainer Bjorn Baker, who has previously spent time working in the UK and Ireland, spoke warmly about the significance of competing at Royal Ascot and the decision to bring Overpass to Britain rather than target alternative options elsewhere. He emphasised the importance of race-day behaviour and adaptability, especially in such a unique setting.
With both Australian challengers now acquainted with Ascot’s straight course, attention turns to the coming days, where final preparations will determine how they measure up against an international field in one of the sport’s most respected stages.
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