Flemington Saturday sets stage for Pride Of Jenni's All-Star Mile repeat
Eighteen months ago, Pride Of Jenni's racing journey faced an uncertain future, but on Saturday at Flemington, she could etch her name as the first horse to win the All-Star Mile twice.
A bleeding incident caused Pride Of Jenni to come in dead last during the Champions Mile at Flemington in November 2024, which prompted owner Tony Ottobre to retire her.
Returning in March the following year, the eight-year-old secured a victory first-up at 1800m, then Pride Of Jenni notched up three additional successes in 2025, including the Group 1 Empire Rose Stakes (1600m) in Melbourne Cup week—a race she dominated in 2023 with her signature 'catch me if you can' tactic under Declan Bates.
According to trainer Ciaron Maher, Pride Of Jenni is in superb condition as she gears up for her most recent track appearance in the Group 1 All-Star Mile (1600m) at Flemington on Saturday.
"I'm rapt with the way she has progressed through the prep," Maher said.
"Tony kept her active when she was down at his property and she came here in really good order and she will strip pretty close to her ideal race weight.
"She's amazing how evergreen she is. Her endeavour, her action, her whole demeanour.
"Dec sat on her on Monday and said she wanted to rip from the 600 metres. He doesn't say a lot, but when he's saying that you know you're pretty close to the mark."
Maher voiced his belief that Pride Of Jenni will deliver a solid effort on first-up Saturday, given that her recent builds have emphasized 1600m trips and longer from the start.
Resuming after what looked like the end of her days under silk and now chasing a second All-Star Mile represents a stunning turnaround, he added.
"She's unbelievable," Maher said.
"Even what she did in the spring. She continues to surprise with her longevity, her endeavour, her will that she has.
"The team have done a super job with her and continue to do that, and Tony and his team need to take a fair bit of credit as well.
"She seems as good as ever."
On Saturday, Pride Of Jenni will tackle 10 competitors, such as last year's winner Tom Kitten, Buckaroo, Antino and Treasurethe Moment. Explore the online bookmakers for the best betting markets for the All-Star Mile.
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