Races

Feehan Fireworks as Pride Of Jenni meets Treasurethe Moment 

This Friday night under the lights at Moonee Valley, Pride Of Jenni returns to defend her title in the Group 2 Feehan Stakes, But standing in her way is the rising star and short-priced favourite, Treasurethe Moment, setting the stage for an epic battle. 

Pride Of Jenni, trained by Ciaron Maher, is no stranger to the spotlight. The eight-year-old mare captured hearts with her fearless racing style and has amassed over $10 million in prize money. She won this very race last year and followed it up with a dominant victory in the Group 2 Peter Young Stakes in autumn1. However, her form since has been mixed. An injury during last year’s Champions Mile lead to a temporary retirement. Her four starts since returning have been inconsistent, with two wins and two underwhelming performances. 

Despite the ups and downs, Maher remains optimistic, saying he is seeing steady improvements. Jockey Declan Bates, who reunites with Jenni after missing the Cox Plate ride, reported she felt relaxed early and strong late in her gallop, a promising sign for Friday night. 

On the other hand, Treasurethe Moment enters the Feehan Stakes as the firm favourite, and for good reason. The Matt Laurie-trained mare is chasing her 10th consecutive win, having recently upset the likes of Buckaroo and Mr Brightside in the Memsie Stakes. Her form has been franked by Buckaroo’s strong showing in the Underwood Stakes, further boosting confidence in her chances. 

She was a late withdrawal from the Makybe Diva due to a colic scare, but Laurie has confirmed she’s recovered and ready to fire. With Mark Zahra aboard and barrier one secured, she’s perfectly positioned to stalk Jenni and pounce late. 

Friday’s Feehan Stakes is expected to unfold as a tactical battle. Pride Of Jenni will almost certainly lead from barrier two, setting a strong tempo as she always does. Treasurethe Moment, drawn inside her at barrier one, will rely on Zahra’s timing to reel her in down the straight. 

While Jenni’s first-up record is solid – including a win in the Peter Young Stakes – her tendency to fade under pressure in recent Group 1 contests raises questions about whether she can withstand the late surge from a mare in peak form. 

This is more than just a race, it’s a narrative of resilience versus rising dominance. If Pride Of Jenni can rediscover her best, she’ll light up The Valley once again. But if Treasurethe Moment is anywhere near her Memsie form, she may prove too strong in the final furlong. Either way, the 2025 Feehan Stakes promises drama, excitement, and a thrilling chapter in the Spring racing carnival. 

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