Mares’ company in 2026 Geoffrey Bellmaine Stakes to suit Aviatress

Aviatress is set to drop back into mares’ company at Caulfield after being a regular performer in Melbourne’s sprint races throughout the summer.

The South Australian-trained mare, prepared by Richard and Chantelle Jolly, is expected to be freshened following her appearance in the Group 3 Geoffrey Bellmaine Stakes (1200m).

After beginning her campaign in Adelaide, Aviatress relocated to Flemington in early November and has since raced four times in Melbourne.

Her preparation included a win in the Listed Doveton Stakes (1100m), a placing in the Listed Christmas Stakes (1200m), and a fourth-place effort in the Group 3 Standish Handicap (1200m) on January 10.

All three of those performances came in open company, while Saturday’s race sees Aviatress return to mares’ grade and carry less weight under the conditions.

Jolly admitted the stable was hoping for a stronger showing last time but said the form has since stacked up well.

“Last start we were a little disappointed with the run she had and was a bit soft late,” Jolly said.

“But she ran fourth, not that far away, and if you look at Hedged, he looked to go pretty ordinary and he came out and won that race at Pakenham the other day, so that makes you feel a bit better about the run.”

Weather conditions could also play a role, with Aviatress known to appreciate some give in the ground.

She last won on a Soft 6 track, while her most recent start came on a firm Good 3 surface.

“We’ve been getting Good 3’s at the moment and the track was pretty firm at Flemington the other day,” Jolly said.

“We just feel she’s a bit better if there’s a bit of sting out rather than the firm track she copped the other day.

“She’s stayed in our Flemington stable the whole way through as otherwise we would have been going backwards and forwards a bit.

“It makes it easier and the horses can settle in there.

“Flemington has certainly been an advantage for the better horses that we’ve got.”

Harry Coffey will take the ride on Saturday in place of the injured Mark Zahra, while Craig Williams will partner Damask Rose.

The post Mares’ company to suit Aviatress first appeared on Just Horse Racing.

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