On the day of joint owner Mitch Millward’s funeral, Swabys Millward secured a favourite’s slot in the Ladbrokes Gold Collar Final at Crayford.
The Paul Young trained Kent Derby third disputed the early lead with Droopys Ontario before taking a length lead and winning in 33.48 for the 540 metres.
Swift Whirlwind was next quickest on the clock (33.64) with a three quarter length win over Corrin Bob. 7-1 chance Slick Society held off Urban Road in the other qualifier (33.91).
The dog’s qualifier saw the three market leaders all go through with locally trained Headford Joe heading home the track record holder Target Harris by a length and a quarter in 23.48.
Local handler Barry O’Sullivan will send out half the field in the Ladbrokes Kent National Final after Tentor Master (23.64) and Bua Frank (23.73) took their respective qualifiers.
But with local champion Handy Henry and Bua Frank also qualifying, it could be Tuesday night’s most fiercely contested decider.