IT WOULD appear an act of God is the only factor capable of preventing Pandering from capturing next weekend’s The Allwood Final at Globe Derby.
An effortless winner of his heat at the same venue Saturday night, the Sales graduate appears to be a cut above his Group One rivals.
Prepared by Victorian horsewoman Emma Stewart, Pandering scored in 1:57.8 upon debut before finishing among the placings during his two subsequent starts ahead being sent interstate.
Driven by Kima Frenning, Pandering was never fully extended on his way to 21-metre victory.
“He’s got plenty of ability and is learning as he goes,” Stewart said. “I quite like him and expect him to be better again for the run.
“Barring any unforeseen circumstances he will take a lot of beating in the Final.”
Caught wide from barrier six Pandering was sent to the front during the middle stages before strolling to a soft win from Ammicchi, with Son Of Rayson a metre-and-a-half away third.
“He was always going to be hard to beat, and once he got to the front, it was difficult seeing him being run down,” Stewart said.
“The run and experience of travelling will do him the world of good.”
Owned by Justin Baker, the son of Courage Under Fire rated 1:59.3 over 1800 metres, with his time 2.8 seconds quicker than Justabitofheaven in the opening qualifier.
Trained and driven by Ryan Hryhorec Justabitofheaven began quickly to lead from barrier two as Adam Crocker worked at her wheel.
Fending off the initial challenge turning for home the daughter of Roll With Joe then withstood a late charge from Night Spirit along the sprint lane to score by a head.
Adam Crocker fought on courageously to be six metres away third.
Purchased by Kerri-Anne Stauwer, Justabitofheaven broke her maiden at her fifth start, with her previous outings netting three placings.
