Chances are you're about to lose.
For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au
Turf darling, the brilliant Autumn Glow, further cemented her status as Australia’s premier miler with an emphatic victory in Saturday’s 2026 Seven Stakes results at Randwick, the Chris Waller-trained superstar mare proving once again why she remains one of the headline acts of the spring carnival.
Starting the overwhelming $1.16 favourite in the fourth running of the Group 2 $1 million 7 Stakes (1600m), the daughter of The Autumn Sun was given a typically polished ride by James McDonald, taking up a prominent position before controlling proceedings and powering clear late to score by 1.25 lengths over stablemate Aeliana ($21), with Ceolwulf ($15) a further half-neck away in third after a brave front-running ride throughout.
The victory improved Autumn Glow’s remarkable record to 13 wins from 14 starts and pushed her career earnings to almost $10 million, adding another feature success to an already glittering résumé that includes Group 1 triumphs in the Winx Stakes, George Ryder Stakes, Verry Elleegant Stakes, and last year’s Epsom Handicap.
McDonald Lets the Champion Mare Do the Talking
While many expected Autumn Glow to settle behind the leaders, the race unfolded differently with McDonald allowing the mare to roll forward and dictate terms.
Despite facing challenges from rivals turning for home, the champion hoop never appeared concerned as Autumn Glow effortlessly found another gear when asked.
“Three-quarter pace around then dash home,” McDonald told Sky Thoroughbred Central post-race.
“They came to me, let her balance up and she went away with it. She did what we needed her to do today.
“She had fun doing it. Ears pricked the whole way.”
McDonald also suggested there remains further improvement to come as she progresses through her preparation.
“Once I got control, she just did it herself,” he said.
“When they came at her, you’ve got to remember Aeliana got within a head of her second-up before.
“She’ll jump out of the ground third-up.”
Waller Comfortable with King Charles Path
Trainer Chris Waller was particularly pleased with the mare’s versatility, noting she was able to adapt seamlessly to the race conditions and still produce her trademark finishing burst.
“It was good to watch and showed how versatile she is,” Waller, who celebrated his third straight win in the race following the back-to-back victories by Fangirl (2024-25), said.
“She can put herself there or she can go back. She just has a great turn of foot.
“I know she was the short-priced favourite, but the horses in this race are all handy horses.
“There was a sprint from the 500 metres when it got serious, so it was good to see her lift and draw clear in the end.”
Importantly, Waller confirmed the stable remains firmly committed to targeting the Group 1 $5 million King Charles III Stakes (1600m) at Randwick on October 17, ruling out an attempt on the $20 million The Everest on the same card despite ongoing public speculation.
“I’m happy and comfortable with the decision,” he said.
“I don’t have second thoughts. Once we make a decision as a group, the ownership, jockey and my team, we run with it.
“I hope it is a great contest and if something beats Ka Ying Rising good luck to them.”
The victory also highlighted the strength of Waller’s hand, with Aeliana producing an excellent performance to charge into second after an unlucky first-up effort when dead last (11th) in the Winx.
Ladbrokes Slashes King Charles Odds
Bookmakers were quick to respond to Autumn Glow’s latest display of dominance.
Following the Seven Stakes victory, Ladbrokes trimmed the star mare’s already prohibitive 2026 King Charles III Stakes odds from $1.70 into $1.30, further entrenching her position as the horse to beat in the Randwick feature on The Everest Day.
King Charles III Stakes 2026 Odds
| 1. Autumn Glow | ||
| 2. Ceolwulf | ||
| 3. Pride Of Jenni | ||
| 4. Autumn Boy | ||
| 5. Angel Capital |
With her devastating turn of foot, tactical versatility and near-flawless record, Autumn Glow continues to justify comparisons with the modern greats. Her latest Group race success was achieved with authority, and with a confirmed path to the King Charles III Stakes now locked in, the five-year-old looks poised to headline another major spring carnival triumph back at Randwick on October 17.
