STAR Tasmanian stayer Ming Dynasty powered her way into next week’s state final of the National Distance Championship over 720 metres with arguably her best effort this preparation.
The Susan Gittus-trained bitch was a clear last at the halfway mark after copping multiple checks in the first 200 metres.
But within the blink of an eye she was within two lengths of the leaders and so fast did she enter the home straight the daughter of Chinatown Lad almost crashed into the back of the pack.
When she eased off heels the end result was never in doubt as she went on to score by five lengths from Posh Will with race leader Bashy’s Boy hanging on for third a half-length away.
Bashy’s Boy scraped into the final by being one of the two fastest thirds.
Ming Dynasty stopped the clock at 43.33s with splits of 5.12 and 16.24s.
Capetown Gem made her way into the final with a solid win in the first of three heats.
The Jillian Stamford-trained bitch trailed the leader Kialdu Anna to the halfway mark but the end result was obvious a long way out.
She swept to the lead nearing the home turn and then staved off a determined challenge from Leica Taipan that finished almost two lengths in arrears with Carlita Bale two lengths away third.
Capetown Gem ran the trip in 43.22s with splits of 5.12 and 16.27, which were almost identical to those clocked by Ming Dynasty.
Thirteen Black was sent out a short price favourite to win his heat and he never let punters down.
Posh Di showed her customary early speed to lead but Thirteen Black had her measure after travelling 300 metres.
Once on the lure he sped clear and had over a length to spare on the line over Winklee Warrior that flashed home with Geez Mouse three lengths astern.
Thirteen Black was the slowest of the three heat winners clocking 43.57s.
The final will be run over 720 metres next Monday night with the winner to represent the state in the National final at Albion Park on August 25.
Box draw for the state final:
1 – Thirteen Black.
2 – Leica Taipan.
3 – Bashy’s Boy.
4 – Winklee Warrior.
5 – Carlita Bale.
6 – Ming Dynasty.
7 – Capetown Gem.
8 – Posh Will.