Will Hayes believes Stealth Of Night has the talent to climb beyond benchmark level, but the focus remains on capitalising on her current form.

The imported mare will line up in Saturday’s $130,000 benchmark 74 over 1400 metres at Flemington.

The Night Of Thunder mare is chasing a third straight win after back-to-back benchmark 70 victories at Sandown in December.

Hayes, who trains alongside brothers Ben and JD, said patience had been key this preparation.

“She’s a very exciting mare, she’s obviously had quite an intensive injury history previous to this preparation and it’s just taken time to get it back to where she needs to be,” Hayes said.

“She’s been very tough the way that she’s won at Sandown, doing all the work from wide gates and then lifting herself off the canvas and putting them away.

“The way that she’s been winning in the benchmark races suggests he has a very good ability to progress.”

Stealth Of Night now carries a rating of 78 and 60kg, with the stable considering a 3kg claim.

Hayes said the mare’s improved durability has been the most pleasing sign.