Ciaron Maher is set to saddle up a strong pair in the upcoming Group 2 Feehan Stakes, with the highly-rated Pride Of Jenni and Another Wil both targeting the Caulfield feature.
The traditional home of the Feehan Stakes (1600m) is Moonee Valley, but the race will be conducted at Caulfield this Sunday due to renovations at the Valley track.
Pride Of Jenni, a two-time winner of the Feehan Stakes, will again face off against familiar rivals Mr Brightside and Treasurethe Moment, both of whom she has previously defeated in this prestigious event.
Maher expressed satisfaction with Pride Of Jenni’s current condition, noting she appears as good as ever despite being nine years of age. This assessment follows a solid 1200-metre jump-out at Cranbourne on September 14.
Pride Of Jenni’s last competitive outing saw her finish runner-up to Birdman in the Doomben Cup in May.
“She’s come up really well,” Maher commented.
“Her weight is good. She wintered well and she was in great form, and we saw that form carry through on Saturday with Birdman winning. He looks like he’s improved, and it would be good if she could improve that much again.”
The trainer also observed that Pride Of Jenni has exhibited a more settled demeanour as she has aged.
“All her mannerisms are still there, and she seems to be in good form, so I’m looking forward to lining her up on Sunday,” Maher added.
Another Wil, while yet to taste victory this season, demonstrated a return to his best form when finishing third in the Makybe Diva Stakes (1600m) at Flemington on September 12, behind Sheza Alibi and Autumn Boy. His last win was in the C F Orr Stakes (1400m) in February 2025.
“He was super the other day,” Maher stated.
“At the top of the straight, he looked like he had a lap full of horse, and he ran the race out very well. He was unlucky in an All-Star Mile, and it looks like he’s got back to that form, but the trick will be whether he can be consistent this prep, but he certainly came through it well.”
Maher is considering an extended campaign for Another Wil, potentially over 2000 metres.
“We have the option of whether we go out to the 10 furlongs (2000m) or not and I’ve always wanted to take him out to the 10 furlongs. His (half) brother (Wil John) won a Grand National and a Jericho Cup over 4600 (metres), so you would think an extra two furlongs (400m) wouldn’t worry him. He’s been in and out of form, so it’s great to have him back.”
The Feehan Stakes presents a compelling betting opportunity. Check out the latest betting markets for the race.
