Impending wins 2017 Stradbroke Hcp Group 1 $1,500,000 at Doomben (QLD), 1350m.
Godolphin-raced colt Impending appreciated dropping from 57kg when fourth to Clearly Innocent (Not A Single Doubt) in the weightfor-age Kingsford Smith Cup (Gr 1, 1300m) at Eagle Farm on a Heavy 8 track at Eagle Farm on 27 May to take out this Group One handicap race with 52.5kg in good style. He settled back in 13th place from his wide barrier (13), improved to eighth (wide with cover) before fanning deep at the home turn. He then sprinted quickly, hit the front at the 50m before going on to win well.
In Her Time was caught deep (without cover) in fourth place from her wide barrier (12). She moved up well (still deep) coming to the home turn and dashed clear on straightening. She was only headed at the 50m and then held on well for a very good second after a difficult trip.
The favourite Clearly Innocent settled in last place in the 16-horse field from his wide barrier (15), improved (wide with cover) from the 700m, went deep at the home turn and kept running on really well under his 57kg top weight for a very good third.
Counterattack was slowly away, settled in 12th place on the rails and was held up for clear running until nearing the 200m. He then ran on nicely for (1.5 lengths) fourth, looking somewhat unlucky.
