Victoria Derby-bound colt Polanski strengthened his claims for the Classic with victory in the Listed UCI Stakes at Flemington on Saturday.
The Robbie Laing-trained Polanski ($13) enjoyed a perfect run in the 1800m event for three-year-olds before working into the race and taking the lead at the 400m mark.
Polanski winning the UCI Stakes at Flemington - photo by Race Horse Photos Australia
He held on to defeat Epic Saga ($10) by a half length with the same margin to Famechon ($12) who finished off nicely on the outside for third.
The victory was Polanski’s second from seven starts. He was stripped of a Caulfield win in May when he returned a positive swab.
Laing believes Polanski, who was third-up on Saturday, is a Derby contender.
“I just hope when he gets to the Derby he’s the same shape and same weight. He was very forward for today’s race, very fit,” Laing said.
“He’s a promising staying type.”
Polanski has his next run in the Norman Robinson Stakes (2000m) before the Victoria Derby (2500m).
Epic Saga’s co-trained Mat Ellerton said Epic Saga would also head to the Norman Robinson before a decision is made on a Derby start.