The stable of Ciaron Maher is optimistic about Benedetta recapturing magic upon her Morphettville comeback.
Her last run at Adelaide’s leading circuit resulted in a Group 1 triumph in The Goodwood in May 2024.
Under Jason Warren’s training then, Benedetta gifted Jamie Melham a memorable hometown Group 1 score.
For the 2025-26 season, now with Maher, the mare has been steady but winless.
This Saturday brings hope for change in the Group 1 Robert Sangster Stakes (1200m), dedicated to fillies and mares at weight-for-age.
Benedetta, piloted once more by Melham, starts from barrier four.
National Assistant Trainer Jack Turnbull of Ciaron Maher Racing highlighted her near-misses this campaign and suitability to female-only fields.
“If there’s any rain it would enhance her chances, not that she needs it,” Turnbull said.
“She’s been beaten around that two-length margin in Group 1’s by some very good horses, and one of them was under handicap conditions.
“We feel she’s going super, she just needs to get in the right spot at the right time and she’s good enough, as we know.
“There are no faults with her from our end, she just needs a bit of luck.”
With the Maher team, Benedetta has raced six times, securing one third, notably first-up when following Tentyris home in the Lightning Stakes (1000m) at Flemington in February.
Turnbull conceded some stable edginess over her dry spell, yet her efforts in majors impress.
“There is (some frustration) as she hasn’t won for a little while, but you look at her form and she’s giving everyone a thrill in some big races,” Turnbull said.
“You would love to see her add another Group 1 to her page to show she has got longevity as a racing prospect for breeders.
“She has been solid for us and hopefully she can get another victory.”
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