Glen Thompson, Flemington conditioner, is counting on Benagil’s strong record at 2000m for enhanced results at Caulfield.
The mare is entered for the Group 3 Easter Cup on Saturday, her fourth appearance since resuming.
Benagil claimed Group 1 honours over 2000m aged three, with two further Group 1 podium finishes—one at 2000m, one at 2200m, as per Thompson.
Last time at 2000m, she trailed the field home in the Champions Stakes behind Via Sistina at Flemington spring last year.
It unfolded on a severely heavy track, capping off her autumn efforts.
No podiums from three goes this campaign for Benagil, though her trainer reports positive vibes.
She ended eighth to Treasurethe Moment most recently in the Sunline Stakes (1600m) at Caulfield March 21.
“She’s going really well,” Thompson said.
“Her first run, she wasn’t ready, then in her second run she was a little plain.
“I thought her run the other day was great. Her sectionals were the second fastest of the race where she was back last and ran on.
“She won at the 2000 metres in the Australasian Oaks (at Morphettville), and she got to 2200 metres, running third in the Queensland Oaks.
“I’m thinking getting her back up to 2000 metres, we’ll see an improved run from her.”
Thompson eyes potential Queensland Winter Carnival targets long-term, but immediately after the Easter Cup, it’s the 2400m Mornington Cup April 18.
The Mornington Cup winner bypasses ballot for the October Caulfield Cup (2400m).
“At this stage she’ll go Easter Cup, Mornington Cup, and if she can win that, then she can go to the paddock and get ready for the spring,” Thompson said.
“It will then all be about one race for her.”
Discover the finest online bookmakers offering Easter Cup betting options.