WALLER EXCITED FOR BOX OFFICE LIGHTNING

Nature Strip and Home Affairs to clash in Lightning Stakes

The threat of Nature Strip defeating Home Affairs isn’t lost on Waller however with the likes of Masked Crusader, Eduardo and Gytrash he believes that star studded line ups are set to be the new norm in Australian racing.

“It’s disappointing to have to run the best horses from your stable together, but if it makes for a better race, then it’s got to be done,” Waller said.

“I think that’s the way forward for our sport ... all the people want to see now, whether they’re punters or spectators, is good horses racing together.”

“The more times you can get good horses racing together the better I think it is.

“It's better for racing but even for the horses, obviously expensive colts like Home Affairs, they’re expected to win and they need to hold their value.

“But at the same time, running against or being beaten by champions is not the worst thing in the world either, it still creates interest.

“I think that's the way forward for Australia as a group to promote the sport, so it’s pretty exciting from that perspective when you’ve got a few horses that can compete at that highest level.”

Nature Strip is attempting to regain the title he won in 2021 and the market believes he is the best chance to do so at $2.50 in the market ahead of stablemate Home Affairs on the third line of betting at $4.50.

“Nature Strip is the one with the king’s mantle but Home Affairs is the up and comer,” Waller said.

“Nature Strip is going to be better suited at the distance ... (Home Affairs) a better chance in a Newmarket, under handicap conditions ... so Nature Strip is the one they all have to beat (on Saturday).”

Home Affairs will be partnered by Jockey James McDonald for the race whilst Jamie Kah will partner with Nature Strip.

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