Classic pedigree backs Impending’s Guineas prospects

If racetrack results relied entirely on breeding, the Godolphin colt Impending would already have his name on the trophy for Saturday’s G1 Caulfield Guineas.

Impending is by the 2001 Guineas winner Lonhro from the 2005 Thousand Guineas winner Mnemosyne, a combination that has, no doubt, had considerable influence on his already impressive career.

And although he was originally the stable’s second string in the Guineas behind Astern, his trainer John O’Shea and regular rider James McDonald believe he is a worthy No.1 choice to live up to his pedigree.

“We’ve always thought Impending would make into a nice Guineas horse, so when Astern presented with a slight temperature we had no hesitation in pulling up stumps and letting Impending focus on the race,” O’Shea said.

“He’s impeccably bred and he’s an imposing horse, but apart from his ability his biggest attribute is his wonderful attitude.”

Impending arrived at Godolphin’s Melbourne stables on Thursday morning, his appearance only two days ahead of the race an integral part of O’Shea’s planning.

“He’s a horse we’ve had to be very patient with all his career and the key to keeping him sound and happy has been in keeping him up in Sydney at Osborne Park,” O’Shea said.

“Normally we would give our Sydney horses a look around in Melbourne before they race, but I think in this case it’s a big advantage to have kept him at home for as long as possible.”

Impending came of age with his win in the G2 Stan Fox Stakes at Rosehill on September 24, having previously been overshadowed by Astern.

But O’Shea believes the colt can now go to a higher level.

“He’s made nice improvement since his win the other day and he’s going to peak on Saturday,” O’Shea said.

“He’s got to get around Caulfield on firm ground, which isn’t the right scenario, but he’s a quality colt and James (McDonald) is very happy with him.

“If he can get the right run he’ll be very effective.”

McDonald was more definite.

“I love this horse,” he said.

“He’s got the right attributes to be competitive in a Caulfield Guineas. He’s a very balanced horse so I’m not concerned about Caulfield at all.

“I think he’s the one to beat”