Bengal Cat Primed for Edward Manifold Stakes Return

Bengal Cat stamped he claims as a filly to follow through a strong winter campaign, and trainer John Sadler has revealed the three-year-old is ready for a racing return in Sunday’s Group 2 Edward Manifold Stakes (1400m) at Flemington Racecourse.

Trainer John Sadler is pleased with the condition of Bengal Cat ahead of her return in Sunday's Edward Manifold Stakes. Photo: Race Horse Photos Australia

Trainer John Sadler is pleased with the condition of Bengal Cat ahead of her return in Sunday’s Edward Manifold Stakes. Photo: Race Horse Photos Australia

Sadler elected to bypass the recent Autumn Carnival with Bengal Cat, and the decision paid immediate dividends when she returned on June 6th for third in the Pendragon @ Think Big Stud Handicap (1200m) before delivering a talented field a defeat in the Murray Cox 2.y.o Handicap (1400m) on June 27th.

Returning for a spell following a credible performance for fourth in the Listed Taj Ross Series Final (1600m) on July 11th, Sadler told AAP he is thrilled with the returning condition of the Bernardini filly and is confident the conditions of the 2015 Edward Manifold Stakes will play directly into her strengths first-up.

“She had about six weeks away but remained in work,” Sadler said.

“She needed a break but I couldn’t give her a proper break.

“She’ll have that residual fitness about her and they don’t take much getting back.

“She’s back and in good order.”

Bengal Cat trialled well in the lead-up to her racing debut in January, but clearly needed the run when fading late for sixth in the Jim’s Antennas Maiden Pate (1000m); immediately returning to the paddock.

Sadler has confirmed he will set Bengal Cat on a path towards the Group 1 Crown Oaks (2500m) this time; progressing to the Listed Ethereal Stakes (2000m) at Caulfield on October 17th before contesting the Group 2 Wakeful Stakes (2000m) as a final point of call a fortnight later.

Nominations for the 2015 Edward Manifold Stakes are due to be completed and released today, while a final field and barrier draw will take place on Wednesday morning.

Ladbrokes Australia is currently offering Bengal Cat at early 2015 VRC Oaks odds of $26 for success; the filly sharing the eighth line of betting with the likes of Chachapoyas and Thames Court.

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Jared Timms

Jared graduated with a journalism degree in 2011. He is a keen sports fan and has enjoyed many accolades for his lively writing style and comprehensive coverage of major sporting events and horse racing. Today, you can find Jared cheering on his beloved Manchester City with a beer in hand.