A strong staying performance in the Bendigo Cup has kept Ciaron Maher’s hopes alive of securing a Melbourne Cup berth for Sayedaty Sadaty.

Sitting 35th in the order of entry prior to Wednesday’s race, the gelding still requires a penalty or attrition among higher-ranked runners to make the final Cup field. But his victory at Bendigo strengthened his credentials significantly.

Under a composed ride from Harry Coffey, Sayedaty Sadaty ($6.50) strode clear late to score, holding off Quietness ($3.30) by a length, with outsider Raging Bull ($61) finishing a further two lengths behind.

The performance continued Maher’s notable record in the Bendigo Cup — his third win in four years — with his two most recent winners both progressing to the Melbourne Cup and performing strongly.

Maher explained that last year’s campaign for Sayedaty Sadaty came too soon after his arrival from overseas, with the Caulfield Cup proving too tough under the circumstances.

This time around, his preparation has been more measured, focusing on settling the gelding and building his stamina. His third in the Archer Stakes and 12th in The Bart Cummings reflected contrasting race shapes.

“The Archer run was very good and then that next one, it just didn’t suit him that race shape at all when the other horse took off,” Maher said.

“It can bottom a horse when they’re in a race like that but that’s why I’m just rapt for the team.

“The horse is deep into the preparation, he’s run super and we’ll see where he fits on Tuesday.”

If Sayedaty Sadaty gains a start, Maher will require a new jockey, with Coffey already committed to Onesmoothoperator.

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