Fortunate Kiss may have her racing swansong at Flemington this weekend before heading to the breeding barn. The mare, trained by Lloyd Kennewell, is entered for Saturday’s Victorian Jockeys’ Association Trophy (1410m) and will then be part of the Magic Millions Virtual Sale next week.

Kennewell’s clients purchased Fortunate Kiss last year, and she has since justified their investment with a victory in the Listed Glasshouse Handicap in July and a placing in the Listed Wangoom Handicap in April. Turning seven on Friday, she is set to begin her stud career in the upcoming breeding season, although Kennewell is hopeful of one more good performance before then. “She’s had a really strong preparation,” he said. “She’s been to the beach, had a nice gallop midweek, and is in great order. This is an ideal race for her, and while it might be her final start, we’ll see how she runs before making the call.”

Fortunate Kiss has enjoyed a travelling preparation, racing in Queensland, Sydney, and Victoria. “She won the Glasshouse impressively, and her Sydney run was solid despite being taken out of the race a bit early before finishing off well,” Kennewell explained. “The 1400 metres looks a better trip for her this time around. She’s fresh, bright and happy after what has been a long campaign.”

Kennewell said the mare has been given consistent care by the same handler throughout her travels, which has been key to her wellbeing. “She’s done a fair bit of travelling, but she’s been well looked after,” he said. “She’s been a terrific mare for us and now, with a Stakes win on her résumé, she’s a valuable broodmare prospect. Hopefully, we can get one more big run out of her on Saturday before she goes to stud.”