Only three fillies have ever completed the coveted The Roses–Queensland Oaks double since The Roses was established as an Oaks lead-up at Doomben in 1996, and just one filly has managed to win both The Roses and the Australasian Oaks—a feat last achieved in 1999.

Benagil has the opportunity to etch her name into the record books on Saturday, with a possible historic treble in sight. Trained by Glen Thompson, the three-year-old is the $3.10 favourite for the Group 2 The Roses (2000m) at Doomben and is en route to the Group 1 Queensland Oaks (2400m) on June 7.

Benagil already boasts a strong resume, having been the only horse to finish within two lengths of boom filly Treasurethe Moment in the Group 1 Vinery Stakes in March, before capturing the Australasian Oaks on May 3. Despite her credentials, she still went around at odds better than 2-1 in Adelaide and finds herself similarly priced for Saturday’s challenge.

“I was really happy with the way she pulled up after her Adelaide win,” Thompson said. “We went to Caulfield Heath last week to replicate the Oaks lead-up, and getting Mark [Zahra] back aboard gave us the assurance we were after.”

Benagil impressed in a 1000-metre jumpout at Caulfield on May 15, even though none of her key rivals were present in that workout. But a wide draw in barrier 16 presents a new challenge at Doomben.

“It’s not an ideal gate and Doomben might not really suit her, but most of the main threats are drawn wide too,” Thompson added. “Eagle Farm will be more suitable for her style in the Oaks, but Adelaide proved what she’s capable of.”

Among her top market rivals, David Vandyke’s Phillia is listed at $5 as she chases a fourth straight win, having taken the Listed Princess Stakes at Doomben last month. Meanwhile, Australasian Oaks third-placegetter Polymnia is quoted at $6.

Benagil’s journey continues this weekend, with history potentially waiting just around the corner.