Bennet (21) first jumped on board a horse as a 10-year-old in South Canterbury, but she cannot call on a strong family pedigree in the industry for any form of innate riding sense.
That did not matter yesterday, as Bennet sent Final Wave on a big run to win a 1100m maiden, her first riding win at just her second attempt.
Bennet was still regaining her composure 10 minutes after the win.
''It's a pretty surreal feeling, really,'' she said.
''It was my second ride and I think I rode a lot better than I did at my first ride, so you can only go up, I suppose.''
Not bad considering her beginnings.
''My family isn't horsey at all. I got sent to a riding school when I was 10 and it all started from there,'' she said.
''I did a little bit of pony club and I started working for Michael Daly when I was 13, just at the weekends.''
Bennet moved to Southland last year, and began work for Ascot Park trainer Sally McKay.
''She asked if I wanted to do my apprenticeship and I jumped at the chance. I've always been really keen to do it.''
Bennet described McKay's support as ''amazing''.
''She's been really good to work for. She always gives me the best opportunities and has helped me with my riding and everything else.''
Bennet's partner, Ross Doherty - who is no stranger to riding. having steered home 90 winners himself - has been willing to offer up advice as well.
''It's constructive criticism - we'll put it that way,'' she said, laughing.
''He's been quite good, too.''
McKay was pleased Bennet was able to break her maiden status on one of her horses.
''I'm thrilled with her. She's a good girl and deserves it,'' McKay said.
''When she turned for home, she had enough speed up that she was going to be right there.
''I was absolutely chuffed for her. The pressure's off now.''
