Mile no issue for Merrigold in 2026 Vobis Gold Distaff

Trainer John Sadler admitted a touch of stubbornness delayed Merrigold’s step up to 1600 metres, but the mare made him look wise with a dominant Flemington victory.

The five-year-old was having her first start beyond 1400 metres and handled the rise in distance with ease when taking out the Vobis Gold Distaff (1600m).

Merrigold had been competitive throughout her campaign without winning, including a brave fourth in the Vobis Gold Bullion, but Saturday’s run showed the benefit of stepping up in trip.

Under Jye McNeil, the mare settled comfortably and produced a strong finish to win by two lengths over Make It Sweet, with Jimmy The Bear finishing third.

Sadler admitted he was unsure how she would handle the mile but was thrilled with the result.

“I really wanted to try her over a mile, but I wasn’t convinced she’d run it,” he said.

“She was given every chance and she ran right through the line, which surprised me.”

“It’s probably the best win of her career.”

After a strong previous preparation that included four wins from seven starts, Sadler said this campaign had included a few setbacks before everything clicked.

“She had one bad run on a wet track and a couple of unlucky ones,” he said.

“Today it all came together and she was excellent.”

With her stamina now proven, markets will start to shape around her next start through leading online betting providers.

Sadler said black-type races are now firmly on the radar.

“That’s the next goal — it would be great to get a stakes win with her,” he said.

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