Ciaron Maher’s stable will have four runners in Saturday’s Mornington Cup, each hoping to secure a Caulfield Cup spot. The winner of the Listed 2400m race will gain a ballot exemption for October’s Caulfield Cup.

In addition to the $180,000 prize for the Mornington Cup, a $1 million bonus is available for any horse that wins both races.

Assistant trainer Jack Turnbull, a local Mornington resident, highlighted the importance of the race.

“It’s a rich prize-money race worth $300,000, and with the chance of gaining entry into the Caulfield Cup, it’s a great initiative,” Turnbull said.

Of the four runners, Turnbull rates Berkshire Breeze as the standout, noting his strong form and solid effort behind Deakin last time.

“Berkshire Breeze made it to last year’s Caulfield Cup but wasn’t quite seasoned enough,” Turnbull said. “This time, he should be better prepared.”

Turnbull also praised Night Endeavor’s third-place finish in the Group 3 Easter Cup (2000m), expecting the 2400m distance to suit him.

Smokin’ Romans, who was disappointing in his last start at Flemington, needs the right race tempo to perform. Turnbull also noted that Strawberry Rock has had a freshen-up following a good campaign in Tasmania.