Impending gets the better of rivals in Stan Fox Stakes
GODOLPHIN made the decision to bypass the Caulfield Guineas with Golden Rose winner Astern, but stablemate Impending made its spring intentions know at Rosehill on Saturday.
The John O’Shea-trained colt was too good for the likes of Divine Prophet and Good Standing in the Group 2 Stan Fox Stakes and although not confirmed, the Caulfield Guineas looks a potential target.
Winning jockey James McDonald positioned the son of Lonhro at the rear of the small field before producing his runner around the home turn. Divine Prophet loomed to win, but Impending ($2.40 at Sportsbet) had its measure and McDonald believes it could progress through to the major ranks.
“Got the result we wanted. Go to the Guineas where this horse will be hard to beat,” McDonald said. “I think he’s a group one horse for sure.
“He hasn’t had the rub of the green, but has a great turn of foot, great nature, he’ll win one.”
O’Shea rejected questions as to where Impending would line up next, stating the Godolpin operation is a big team which doesn’t make quick decisions.
“Credit must go to our team at home. He’s presented here in tremendous order,” O’Shea said.
“I don’t want to sound rude, I just can’t answer that question.”
Bookmakers had Impending at $7 prior to the Stan Fox, but the colt is now $4.50 at Sportsbet for the Caulfield Guineas on October 8.
Divine Prophet lost no admirers in finishing second and remains on the second line of betting for the Caulfield Guineas at $5.50, but Impending has clearly come on stronger this spring.
Prized Icon battled away well on the inside of runners, but questions remain over its Guineas chances at $21.