Racing enthusiasts have been fortunate to witness a remarkable era of high-class mares continuing their racing careers well into maturity.

Historically, mares with strong racing records would retire to the breeding barn by the age of five or six, but times have changed.

Let’s Elope continued racing until she was seven before retiring in the US, while Sunline competed in her fourth Cox Plate at the same age, having secured two wins, a runner-up finish, and a fourth-place result.

Makybe Diva was also seven when she retired after clinching her third Melbourne Cup, and Winx bowed out as a seven-year-old following her victory in the Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Randwick, boasting four Cox Plate wins.

Bella Nipotina recently retired at seven with over $22.5 million in earnings, while Via Sistina has accumulated seven Australian Group 1 victories within a year, including the Ranvet Stakes at Rosehill.

Today’s mares are carrying the flag, with many top colts and geldings being sold to Hong Kong or heading to stud early in their careers.

This Saturday, three seven-year-old mares—Atishu, Deny Knowledge, and Pride Of Jenni—will compete in the Group 1 Australian Cup (2000m) at Flemington.

Each has claimed a Group 1 title, though Pride Of Jenni is seeking her first victory at the elite level in her current season after twice finishing runner-up.

Deny Knowledge, trained by Anthony and Sam Freedman, secured her Group 1 win in last year’s Caulfield Stakes (2000m), defeating Mr Brightside and Atishu.

Sam Freedman is eager for another Group 1 attempt with Deny Knowledge this weekend.

“It looks like it will be a truly run race,” Freedman told RSN.

“We’ll stick to the strategy that has worked for her. She’s an honest mare who runs out a strong, fast-paced 2000 metres.

“Her versatility allows her to chase the speed and sit close, whereas many of Pride Of Jenni’s rivals struggle to handle that pace and still finish strongly.”

Freedman anticipates a tactical contest, with the pressure building from the 800m mark, possibly favoring a runner from off the pace.

“There’s a chance we push each other hard from a long way out, but I wouldn’t trade our mare for any other in the race,” Freedman said.

“She’s her own biggest challenge—she’s relentless and doesn’t know how to slow down.

“This shapes up as one of the best Australian Cups in years. It’s going to be a fascinating race.

“On a top-class track, on a big race day, we’re hoping for a thrilling contest.”

Deny Knowledge’s preparation has been geared toward this race, with any potential Sydney targets to be considered afterward.