From international assistant trainer to solo Group 1 hopeful, Glen Thompson’s journey through racing has been anything but linear.

His résumé includes stints with Michael Freedman in Singapore, time under the guidance of his brother John Thompson, and a period training in Queensland.

He recently joined Mike Moroney in a training partnership before unexpectedly taking over the operation following Moroney’s death in February.

Thompson notched his biggest career win when Bankers Choice landed the Listed Mornington Cup (2400m), and now has Benagil lining up in Saturday’s Group 1 Australasian Oaks (2000m).

Benagil heads markets at $4 and brings a strong record, having started her career with consecutive victories before rising to the spring’s top fillies’ contests.

This campaign, she took out a Caulfield 1600m race before finishing second to Treasurethe Moment in the Group 1 Vinery Stud Stakes (2000m).

The ATC Australian Oaks (2400m) was on the radar, but Thompson felt the Morphettville assignment was more winnable.

“That’s one of the main reasons we dodged Sydney and looked at (hopefully) this easier option and it’s her chance to win a Group 1,” Thompson said.

“And watching the race the other day, I think we’ve made the right call.”

Benagil has been back in Melbourne since her Rosehill run and had a tune-up jump-out before heading to Adelaide.

“You wouldn’t know she had had the trip away to Sydney,” Thompson said.

“It will be a month between runs, so she had a jump-out last week to get her ready.

“She’s straightforward to train. She’s got a great attitude, and I wish they were all like her.”