Victorian primed for Australia’s premier mares’ event

A SCINTILLATING first-up performance has Maajida in prime condition for Saturday night’s Ladyship Mile at Club Menangle.

Competing around the 1400-metre circuit last weekend, Maajida captured the Robin Dundee Sprint to earn a berth in Australia’s premier mares’ event.

Driven by Kate Gath, Maajida covered the mile in a quick 1:50.3 in what was her first run since securing the Vicbred Super Series Final on New Year’s Eve.

Pleased with Maajida’s performance, trainer Emma Stewart stated the daughter of Somebeachsomewhere had “pulled up a treat” from her outing.

“I thought she went terrific on Saturday night, and more importantly, she has pulled up a treat,” Stewart said.

“The run has done her the world of good and she’ll strip a lot fitter for the outing.

“She’ll need to improve though as the Ladyship Mile is another step up compared to her last start.”

As for her pending assignment, Maajida has drawn barrier five but slots into three with the removal of the emergency.

Although Gath is listed to drive the four-year-old, the premier reinswoman has yet to decide if she will travel back to Menangle.

Closer to home Gath’s engagements include partnering her favourite trotter, Tornado Valley.

A last start winner of the Great Southern Star, Tornado Valley is set to contest the Australasian Grand Prix in Melton.

“Kate hasn’t confirmed which track she plans to drive at with us yet ,” Stewart said. “We’ll wait until we hear from her before making any decision on who will drive Maajida and Tough Tilly in the Oaks.”