Sydney-based mare In Flight delivered an electrifying win at Caulfield in the Group 3 Sir John Monash Stakes (1100m), confirming her rapid rise in Australia’s sprint racing scene. Trained by Joe Pride, she outclassed the field on Saturday, edging out New York Lustre and Recommendation in an assertive finish. Now, Group 1 targets like the Oakleigh Plate and The Galaxy beckon.
Champion jockey Craig Williams piloted In Flight to victory in style, closing a Caulfield treble with this impressive run. “Getting around Caulfield the first time … thought we’d be in the run a lot closer,” Pride admitted. “Probably not tracking out so wide … but as soon as she straightened up and balanced up … she’s pretty good mare this.”
A Strong Campaign Building Momentum
With eight wins from 18 starts, In Flight is no overnight success. Her current winter campaign began in Sydney with two strong placings, followed by a Listed win in Brisbane. She returned to Sydney and then headed south to Caulfield, winning again in dominant style.
Pride’s strategy has been spot-on. “She’s won in three different states her last three starts, says something about her toughness,” he said. “She’s handling it all really well … she’s heading in the right direction.”
The Oakleigh Plate in autumn looks like a natural next step for the talented sprinter. “She hasn’t got too much to prove to get to that level because she’s going through the grades very quickly,” Pride explained. “It’s very exciting.”
A Jockey’s Trust Rewarded
Craig Williams, who used Kallos as tactical cover during the race, praised both horse and trainer. “Joe has really developed her and taught her well,” he said. “She’s very effective when tracks have a bit more give … she won with a bit of authority today.”
In Flight showed composure and acceleration around the unfamiliar Caulfield circuit. “She probably could’ve sat three-wide and closer and still won,” Williams added. “But we want the perfect ride … she towed me around.”
As Group 1 goals appear on the horizon, Joe Pride’s confidence continues to build. The mare’s performance under pressure—and across different states—proves she’s not only tough but supremely versatile. If this trend continues, autumn could bring her biggest career achievement yet.
