TRAINER Craig Widdison notched his first city winner in almost 12 months after Banger scored a barnstorming victory at Sandown on Wednesday.
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Ridden by Jordan Childs, Banger settled at the tail of the field in the $50,000 Benchmark 64 Hcp, (1200m).
Banger was still a conspicuous second-last at the 400m mark before Childs eased out into the middle of the track.
Once in the clear Banger ($13) unleashed a devastating sprint to get up in the last stride over long-shots Carlingford ($41) and Sorority Lass ($21).
Widdison said Banger deserved a victory after having no luck in three previous runs this preparation after resuming on Wodonga Gold Cup day.
"I've been really happy with the horse all the way through this preparation but he just hasn't had any luck," Widdison said.
"The way the race was run on Wednesday with a fast tempo up front suited him down to the ground.
"Once he pulled out to the centre of the track and got some clear galloping room he showed what he is capable of.
"I think the key to him winning is getting him to the outside and letting him wind up instead of sticking to the fence and trying to weave between runners.
"I don't think I've ever had a horse that has drawn gate one as often as him."
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Widdison has always had an opinion of Banger who has had five previous city starts.
His previous best performance was a fifth placing at Flemington almost a year ago.
"It was a terrific performance to come for second-last," he said.
Widdison said he would consider another city assignment for Banger at Sandown in three weeks.