Benedetta Horse Gears Up for William Reid Stakes

Benedetta Horse competing
Photo Credit: Craig Brennan

Elle

Mar 25th 2025

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Trainer Jason Warren and the connections of Benedetta Horse are considering multiple options for the talented mare, with her performance in the Group 1 William Reid Stakes at Moonee Valley Racing Club expected to help shape her campaign. She will race at the track for the first time on Saturday, following a solid workout on Tuesday.

Benedetta Horse is one of nine horses set to run in the 1200m sprint, with barriers to be drawn later on Tuesday. Warren remains open to different paths, but he emphasized that this weekend’s race at Moonee Valley Racing Club will play a key role in shaping their decisions. While considering various options, Warren stated that the outcome of this weekend’s race at Moonee Valley Racing Club will significantly influence their next steps.

“They have now boosted the financial incentives for horses that travel, which makes the event more attractive,” Warren said.

However, a trip to England would likely rule Benedetta Horse out of the Australian spring carnival, which remains an important factor in decision-making. Warren believes that if she wins on Saturday, a Sydney campaign becomes the most likely choice.

“For now, our main focus is on Saturday,” he said.

Benedetta Horse has not previously raced at Moonee Valley Racing Club, though she has trained there before. Two years ago, Warren worked her at the track in preparation for the William Reid Stakes but ultimately decided against running her as a three-year-old. Now, with more experience and a Group 1 victory, he is comfortable bringing her back for this race.

“She’s older now and has gained the experience needed for this kind of race,” Warren said. “She just needs things to go her way.”

Benedetta Horse’s recent form includes a third in the Group 1 Lightning at 1000m, followed by an unfortunate tenth in the Group 1 Newmarket Handicap at Flemington.

Trainers are now evaluating custom racehorse training plans to refine Benedetta Horse’s approach and maximize her potential in upcoming events. With the right custom racehorse training plans, she can regain her best form and compete at the highest level.

The Lightning Stakes provided a strong return to racing, but the Newmarket proved frustrating for Warren and his team.

“The Newmarket was our main second-up target, and the Lightning was a good lead-up for her,” Warren said. “We drew the inside in the Lightning, which wasn’t ideal, but we had to go with it.”

Benedetta Horse’s position on the inside track could provide a great run although not the best. A customized training plan would help improve position and strategy to best utilize the horse under different track conditions and competition.

“She gave it everything, but it’s never easy winning from that position,” he added.

In the Newmarket Handicap, jockey Ben Melham attempted to find a clear path but ran into heavy traffic.

“It was a tough race to watch,” Warren said. “She could perform well, but things just didn’t work out.”

With those setbacks behind them, Warren is confident Benedetta Horse has recovered well.

“She’s had two solid weeks and is in great shape,” he said.

Daniel Stackhouse will take over as Benedetta Horse’s rider on Saturday, replacing Melham. This change signals a fresh approach as she aims for another Group 1 victory.

With several options ahead, Benedetta Horse’s performance this weekend will be a key factor in determining her next step.

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