Detonator Stakes then a break for Miller’s star mare

Trainer Jason Miller is optimistic about Bonjoy’s potential to rise to greater heights as she prepares for tougher competition later this year. The emerging star mare has been in outstanding form, and Miller hopes she can conclude her current campaign on a high note.

Bonjoy is set to compete in the Listed Detonator Stakes (1800m), and Miller is eager for her to maintain her winning momentum before taking a well-earned spell.

The talented daughter of Maschino has shown remarkable progress this season, positioning herself as a strong contender for the Group 1 Railway Stakes (1600m).

With an exceptional turn of foot, the five-year-old solidified her status as a feature race prospect at Ascot last weekend by securing her third consecutive victory.

Following wins in the Starstruck Classic (1600m) and the Celebration Of Life Day Trophy (1500m), Bonjoy completed a hat trick in the Ascot Mile.

Looking ahead, Miller envisions the Detonator Stakes as her final assignment before she embarks on a substantial break ahead of the Ascot Pinnacles carnival.

“We’re looking at the Detonator and then giving her a break for the carnival,” Miller told Racing WA.

“She’ll have a longer break, about three or four months off, and then we’ll focus on the carnival.

“Not many horses can win 11 from 18, and her record is pretty good. She has really stepped up.

“I think she can definitely mix it with the better class.

“She’s improved each prep, and it’s exciting.

“It’s great to have a horse capable of competing in those top-tier races.”

While Bonjoy is set for a well-deserved spell, another star from Miller’s stable is gearing up for a return to competition. Admiration Express, who finished second in the Group 1 Northerly Stakes (1800m) in December, is just two weeks away from resuming training.

The multiple stakes-winning mare, sired by My Admiration, is being aimed at three key winter races: the Belmont Sprint (1400m), the Hyperion Stakes (1600m), and the Strickland Stakes (2000m).

Meanwhile, Miller remains hopeful that Burnya To Survive can make a return to racing. The talented gelding, sired by Bradbury’s Luck, has been sidelined due to injury since winning the Bunbury Stakes (1400m) two years ago.

“We’re doing our best to get him back, but he still has issues with his hind foot,” Miller said.

“We thought we nearly had him right to come back in, but then we hit another setback.

“We’re trying, but it’s been two and a half years, and at some point, time will run out.

“We’re giving him every possible chance, and the door isn’t closed yet, but there’s still some work to do.”