Stakes races beckon for the Grahame Begg-trained Bennetta after the filly strode away with Saturday’s Bowermans Office Furnitures Handicap (1250m0) at Canterbury.
Bennetta has endured a run of hard luck stories at her first three career runs including the controversial ride by Daniel Ganderton in the filly’s debut that earned the jockey a two-month suspension.
“She hasn’t had a lot of luck at her three starts but she’s a filly that’s certainly going places,” Begg said “This wasn’t an easy race and that wins was good.
The trainer said Bennetta had done her job this time and signaled Sydney’s autumn carnival as the daughter of General Nediym next target.
“We might just back off her a bit now and save her for some of those autumn races,” he said.
Bennetta ($5.50), who came from back in field, defeated She’s A Stalker ($3.20 fav) by 2-1/4 length away in third.
Winning jockey James McDonald said Bennetta was capable of matching it with the top fillies in the autumn.
“She just cruised up past them, a super filly in the making.” he said. “She’s a big girl but still has some growing to do so it’s quite scary to think what she’ll be like.
The Market:The winner Bennetta opened at $3.70 and eased to $5.50.She’s A Stalker opened at $2.60 but eased to $3.20 favorite while Rebel Dancer eased out from $7 to $9.50 but firmed into $8.50. Outside the placegetters,Spring Reward drifted from $4 into $4.60 before being hammered late in betting and started $3.60. The on-course market close at 109 percent.