Winx's connections decide on no international Royal Ascot trip

Rather than take Winx out of Australia, it’s the hope of trainer Chris Waller and connections that international talents rather visit Australia to take on the world’s leading record holder for Grade/Group 1 wins.

Waller announced Wednesday — “following lengthy discussions between the owners, (jockey) Hugh Bowman and I” — that the super mare Winx will not go to England’s Royal Ascot after all.

Winx won the Group 1 George Ryder Stakes last Saturday, extending her winning streak to 24 straight races. The 7-year-old daughter of Street Cry will run next in the April 14 Queen Elizabeth Stakes.

“It is our plan to continue to race her into the Spring (North America’s autumn) and hopefully Australia can play host to international visitors during our carnival,” Waller said. “We are humbled by the level of support, respect and compassion that has been offered by the international representatives looking to attract Winx and congratulate each of them for the professionalism displayed towards us during this process.”

The George Ryder marked Winx’s 17th Group 1 win, eclipsing the great American horse John Henry’s 16 career Grade 1 victories. She’s 2-for-2 on the year with a win as well in the Group 1 Chipping Norton.

And to those who insist she’s facing subpar competition down under: that’s now 1,080 days without a defeat. Along the way, Winx has defeated 57 Group 1 winners.

Waller's full statement is available below: