The Ciaron Maher stable are backing on a return to Morphettville being a winning formula for Benedetta.
The last time Benedetta raced at Adelaide’s premier course, the mare took out The Goodwood at Group 1 level in May 2024.
That was when Benedetta was trained by Jason Warren and it provided Jamie Melham with a sought-after Group 1 win in her hometown.
Transferred into Maher’s care for the 2025-26 season, Benedetta has performed consistently but has been unable to break back into winning form.
The stable is hoping that will change on Saturday when Benedetta contests the Group 1 Robert Sangster Stakes (1200m), a race for fillies and mares at weight-for-age.
Melham again rides Benedetta who will jump from barrier four.
Jack Turnbull, the National Assistant Trainer for Ciaron Maher Racing, said Benedetta had been threatening this campaign and will be suited back to fillies and mares’ company.
“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.”
Benedetta has had six starts since joining the Maher team for one solitary placing, finishing third first-up behind Tentyris in the Lightning Stakes (1000m) at Flemington in February.
Turnbull said there had been some frustration from the stable that she had not finished in the money on other occasions, but they also are aware she has the ability on her day.
“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.”
