Ciaron Maher filly makes return at Caulfield races

The much-anticipated return of talented filly Cherish Me is set for Caulfield this weekend as the Ciaron Maher-trained runner kicks off her new campaign.

She lines up in the Senet Gambling Law Experts Handicap (1200m) with Craig Williams booked to ride, following a spell since her last start in the Group 1 Blue Diamond Stakes (1200m).

After a successful debut at Geelong under Thomas Stockdale, Cherish Me contested the Blue Diamond with Jamie Mott aboard, finishing ninth after being well supported in the market.

Freshened up since that effort, she has completed two jump-outs ahead of her return, the latest showing promise with a runner-up finish at Cranbourne Synthetic on July 14.

Trainer Ciaron Maher is upbeat about her progress.

“She did really well during her break, and I think she’s still getting there,” Maher said.

“We’ve had a high opinion of her from the first time she went to the races. She’s got good ability, and I think she’ll keep furnishing.

“Timing wise, the Quezette would work, but we could also have Signature Scent going there as I think it would be a nice race for that filly.”

The Group 3 Quezette Stakes (1100m) on August 16 is a likely target, with longer-term ambitions aimed toward the Group 1 Thousand Guineas (1600m) in October.

“She relaxes very well in her races so she could get a little bit further and she does have a beautiful action,” Maher added.

Brazenga, who showed early promise earlier in the year, is also expected to return on the same card.

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