“She has proven she is pretty special”

A DECISION relating to Maajida’s next major target is expected to be made early in the New Year.

Speaking after Maajida added another Group One to her tally just moments ago, trainer Emma Stewart revealed connections are “weighing up the options” with the outstanding filly.

One possibility is aiming the Australian Pacing Gold graduate at the prestigious Ladyship Mile at Club Menangle on February 27.

“The Ladyship Mile is something to consider,” Stewart said. “It would be a big step up for her, but she has proven she is pretty special.

“Although she has only had nine starts this time in, she has been up for a while and will enjoy a freshen-up.

“How long that will be depends on what races are suitable for her so we will be weighing up the options during the next week or so.”

Racing at Tabcorp Park Melton this evening, Maajida successfully defended her Vicbred Super Series title with Greg Sugars in the cart.

Given time to settle from her inside of the second row draw, Maajida was sent forward to test the leader and stablemate, Amelia Rose, from the ‘death seat’ at the bell.

Forging her way to the front along the home straight, the daughter of Somebeachsomewhere staved off a late challenge from Its Beaujolais to score by a neck.

Amelia Rose battled on to be a half-neck away third.

“The inside of the second draw had the potential to be tricky, but Greg did a terrific job to get her off the pegs at the start,” Stewart said.

“She’s had to do it tough but again proved her class with a strong win.”

Rating 1:55.5 over 2240 metres, the three-year-old stretched her record to 17 wins, three placings and earnings of $457,200 from 23 starts for the Johnson family.