Rising star to extend perfect season

RISING star Mach Dan is expected to have no trouble extending his perfect season when he heads to Tabcorp Park Melton on Friday.

Fresh from his Mildura Cup success a fortnight ago – his fifth win of the term – Mach Dan is engaged in an Australian Pacing Gold heat.

Victory will see the Emma Stewart-trained gelding book a berth in the $210,000 Final at the same venue on May 1.

New South Wales speedster Expensive Ego set up a potential clash with Mach Dan by capturing his qualifier in a blistering 1:48.6 at Club Menangle yesterday.

The widest drawn of the six starters, Mach Dan is a $1.50.

“He won three of his last four before he went for a break in November and has come back in terrific form,” Stewart said.

“We couldn’t be happier with the way he is going and can’t see any reason why that will change.

“Drawing wide won’t be a problem in such a small field as no matter where he settles he won’t be far off them.”

Winner of the 2019 APG Final as a two-year-old, Jilliby Nitro is considered the main danger at $3.50 from the pole.

“Jilliby Nitro has proven himself to be among the best of the crop, and although he is first-up from a break, he’s sure to be forward enough to be a threat,” Stewart said.