Priests Place set the standard in the heats of the Carling Cider Trophy over 480 metres at Nottingham on Monday.
Geraldine Kovac’s runner was soon clear of the favourite Coolavanny Tyson and held on by just over a length in a fastest 28.65sec.
Scottish raider Coolavanny Dave was almost as impressive in heat two when he pulled clear from the opening turn to account for Southern Ramsy by two and a half lengths in 28.70sec.
Coolruss Alpha forced his way through at the third turn in heat three to beat Corner Crash by almost two lengths in 29.05sec.
