It’s A Plane announced himself as one of the future stars of the staying ranks on Thursday night.
It’s A Plane was slow to begin from box three and settled at the rear of the field in the early stages of the race. It didn’t take long before he was threatening danger approaching the home straight. He quickly went by leader Panda Bale and raced away to win by four lengths.
“He’s not the best begginer, and as expected he came out average,” said trainer Wayne Vassallo.
In what looked to be a moderately ran race, it was not to be. It’s A Plane stopped the clock at a flying 41.60, by far the quickest of the two heats over 715m.
“The time didn’t surprise me, he ran 34.01 when he won over 595m at Sandown – he produces his best work in the later stages.”
It’s A Plane first proved his strength when he came from behind to win a maiden final over 515m back in April, and since then has gradually stepped up in distance.
“We didn’t rush stepping him up in distance, he was still learning how to race with other dogs. After his run at Bendigo he was probably ready to step up.”
In next week’s final It’s A Plane will step from box five alongside fellow heat winner Ryno’s Raider.
“He can’t afford to get too far back – if he gets a bit of luck in running hopefully he can win again.”
It’s A Plane has had just 15 career starts and boasts an impressive record having won six and placed in six with $38,555 in prize money.
“I expect him to be racing with the top echelon of stayers over the next 12 months.”
The final will be one of many quality races next Thursday with the second of four TAB Melbourne Cup Prelude series’ to be run.
Pictured: Karen Pitt with It’s A Plane
