Causing a massive upset during her previous start, Heavenly Flyer has drawn to repeat the performance this weekend.
Among the despised outsiders at $51 on the Tote, Heavenly Flyer secured a Vicbred Super Series heat in Kilmore last Thursday, earning her a berth in a semi-final in Melton on Saturday night.
To trainer Graham Lyon’s delight, the three-year-old will begin from barrier two, giving her a strong opportunity to progress to the Group One Final on September 12.
“She’s in terrific form and I couldn’t have her going any better,” Lyon said. “I knew she would run a good race in the heat, but I didn’t think she could win it.
“A few of the boys had something each way, but more around her running in the placings.
“She’s got a beautiful draw in the semi, but there is a lot of speed off the front.”
Runner-up behind her stablemate Bettor Beach during their heat, Pre Eminant is the likely leader from barrier four according to Lyon, who rates the daughter of Captaintreacherous as the one to beat.
Trained by premier horsewoman Emma Stewart, Bettor Beach has drawn gate 12 in the same qualifier.
“I’d say Pre Eminant will lead, which makes her the one to beat,” Lyon said. “Hopefully we can get into a good position from our draw and make the most of it.
“It was a huge buzz winning last week, and it would be great to do it again, but the main aim is to make it to the Final.
“If she is good enough on the night she will get to the Final and we’ll continue to enjoy the ride.”
