Pondering thinking big following G3 Bessarabian Stakes win

Pondering had no problem with a step back up to seven furlongs as she secured a first Graded Stakes victory in the G3 Bessarabian Stakes at Woodbine, Canada, on Saturday, 8 November.

The half-sister to multiple Graded Stakes winner Think Big had made two juvenile appearances over similar distances before establishing herself as a talented turf sprinter this season, including finishing third on her previous start in Keeneland’s G2 Franklin Stakes.

Having broken on terms in the Tapeta contest, Pondering showed good early speed and soon tracked Stormcast and Dolce Sopresa in third of the 14 runners.

Caitlinhergreatness took closer order to take third from Pondering leaving the back straight, although the Brendan Walsh-trained filly looked full of running turning in.

Switched out by Declan Cannon at the top of the straight, Pondering stayed on powerfully to head Caitlinhergreatness entering the final half-furlong before hitting the line strongly for a three-quarter length verdict.

Declan Cannon said: “I didn’t think I would be sitting as close to the pace, but I just sat in there and let Pondering relax. She was very game when I called on her, did everything right, and I’m very proud of her effort today.

“I need to thank Brendan, Michael [Banahan] and Dan [Pride] at Godolphin for giving me another chance with this filly – I’ve had a bit of history with her in the past – and the boss did a fantastic job.

“I always felt that I had the measure of the runner-up. When Pondering levelled off, I knew that she would have a good kick because that’s how she likes to run. I just didn’t want to get there too soon as she knows when she has done enough.”