Michael Mehegan is hopeful Bossy Benita can reward patience when she resumes in the Group 3 Geoffrey Bellmaine Stakes (1200m) at Caulfield on Saturday.
The Mornington trainer admitted the mare’s career was nearly derailed last year after a frightening trackwork incident that saw her bolt through several sections of rail.
Bossy Benita recovered from the incident but was unable to perform to expectations in the Group 2 Let’s Elope Stakes shortly after.
“We had her in really good condition and form before the Let’s Elope, but she had a track accident where she lost the rider,” Mehegan said.
“She went through three or four different parts of running rail and we were lucky she survived.
“We pushed on after that, but she just wasn’t right. In hindsight I shouldn’t have run her.”
The mare was sent for a spell before being gradually brought back with three jump-outs.
“She trialled against Jigsaw and finished second, then had another trial which she won well and that showed she was back to her best,” Mehegan said.
Despite conceding weight to several rivals, Mehegan believes the race is a suitable starting point.
“It’s been a long-term plan to kick her off in the Bellmaine,” he said.
“She’s better than people think and I believe she’s capable of competing at this level.”
Lachlan Neindorf has been booked to ride after partnering her in recent work.
Those looking ahead to the Geoffrey Bellmaine Stakes can check the current online bookmakers for market updates.
The post Mornington trainer chases third Geoffrey Bellmaine Stakes win first appeared on Just Horse Racing.