A minor training hiccup couldn’t stop Bjorn Baker’s classy mare Stefi Magnetica ($3.90) from returning to top form, claiming the $2 million Group 2 The Invitation in a thrilling finish at Randwick.

Patiently ridden by Jason Collett, the daughter of All Too Hard charged from the back, sweeping down the outside to overhaul Gerringong ($14) by a neck, with Gangsta Granny ($9) a further half-length away.

The win propelled Stefi Magnetica’s career prizemoney beyond $7 million and gave Baker a much-needed breakthrough during what he described as a frustrating carnival.

“I thought if we didn’t have this setback the King Charles III Stakes last week was the ideal race for her,” Baker said.

“I didn’t have any confidence coming in today off a little bit of a setback, and she was great.

“I can’t win a race during this carnival, I’ve had seconds, thirds, fourths, fifths, so it’s a big relief. I had Overpass run a gallant fourth last week (in The Everest).

“It’s hard to win races this time of year, you need a very special horse and a special team behind you and I’m lucky to have both.”

Collett said the mare’s ability to quicken off a solid tempo made all the difference late in the piece.

“There was a bit of a worry about fitness coming into it off the setback she had, but that was great,” Collett said.

“She’s just electric when you get her back and let that tempo unfold in front.

“Just letting her get into that rhythm is so important too.”

After the win, Baker revealed he would likely freshen Stefi Magnetica for one more run during the carnival.

“We won’t back up, maybe we’ll go to the Champions Mile and take on a couple of our old sparring partners,” Baker said with a grin.

“Nothing like good competition, we love good competition.”

Now rated an $8 chance for the Champions Mile on November 8, Stefi Magnetica looks primed for another top-level tilt.

For punters following her journey, check markets at leading Australian betting sites including Sportsbet, Ladbrokes and TAB.