Former Horse Of The Year Pride Of Jenni is close to making her much-anticipated return, having been nominated for upcoming trials as part of her spring campaign.
The Ciaron Maher-trained mare is entered for an 800m jump-out at Cranbourne on Monday and another trial over the same trip at Caulfield Heath on Tuesday. Maher said which option she takes will depend on track conditions.
After finishing tenth in the Group 1 Doomben Cup in May, many expected Pride Of Jenni to be retired to the breeding barn. Instead, she has returned from pre-training at owner Tony Ottobre’s Mornington Peninsula property looking refreshed and ready.
“They did a good job with her,” Maher said. “She had a nice covering, she’s happy and free in her action. She’s a marvel actually, she surprises me every time she comes back.”
Maher confirmed no first-up race has been decided, with her program to be set after her trial performances. He also suggested she would remain in Melbourne this spring. “I think we’ll keep her around the mile to 1800 metres, probably later in the carnival,” he said.
Targets could include the Group 1 Empire Rose Stakes and Group 1 Champions Mile, both run at Flemington during Melbourne Cup week. Those races in 2023 delivered her first Group 1 wins and secured her Horse Of The Year honours.
Bettors following Pride Of Jenni’s journey to the Empire Rose Stakes or Champions Mile can compare top odds at leading betting sites.