Class rise no threat to perfect record

SHE’S stepping up in class but Von Art is ready for the task at hand.

That’s the call from trainer Emma Stewart ahead of Von Art’s pending metropolitan debut.

Unbeaten from four starts since joining Stewart’s record-breaking stable, Von Art is engaged in a mares’ event at Tabcorp Park Melton on Saturday night.

Impressed with the five-year-old’s performances, Stewart believes Von Art can extend her undefeated status after drawing the pole.

Primarily-owned by South Australian interests, the daughter of Art Major will be driven by Mark Pitt, who has been riding a crest of a wave in recent months.

“She hasn’t set a hoof wrong since she got here and I can’t see any reason why that will change on the weekend,” Stewart said.

“Her form is faultless and her work on the training track has been as good as can be.

“This is another step up for her, but she’s got the draw to make a real go of it.

“There are some handy types in the field and a bit of form around her, but she’ll let them know she’s there.”

Elsewhere on the card Stewart has Like A Wildfire in the Italian Cup, with the gelding to begin from barrier five.

“He hasn’t raced for a couple of months, but his work has been solid and he’s ready to go,” Stewart said.