Racing: Black Caviar almost unbackable in Australia stakes

Luke Nolen is not perturbed by Black Caviar drawing barrier one for the first time as she shoots for her 17th straight win in tonight's Group Two Australia Stakes at Moonee Valley.

The world's highest ranked sprinter and second overall behind English superstar Frankel faces just six rivals in the 1200m, weight-for-age feature which she won two years ago when she beat four rivals. "One is better than seven," Nolen said.

Black Caviar is a virtually unbackable $1.02 favourite with TAB Sportsbet ahead of Zedi Knight at $21, Moody's second stringer Doubtful Jack at $26 and Rock Classic at $35.

The Bart Cummings-trained Rock Classic returns from a 17-month injury enforced layoff.

* Imported stayer Wazn brought an international flavour to Warwick Farm yesterday with his victory in the feature Australia Day Cup.

The former France-based horse, trained by Kiwi Chris Waller, was ridden by South African Glyn Schofield who sported special Australian flag silks in the A$100,000 Listed event.

Wazn, having his first start over 2400m, settled at the tail of the field before Schofield saved ground near the inside and weaved through to make his challenge in the straight.

The five-year-old tired late in the heavy conditions but had enough of an advantage to keep Yulalona ($5.50) at bay by three-quarters of a length.

- AAP