On The Podium: Davidson's ‘Dream' Black Top Result

MARK Davidson understands the enormity of task he faces in Friday night's Black Top Final but it has in no way dampened his enthusiasm ahead of the group 2 blockbuster.

Davidson takes a two-pronged attack into the $40,000-to-the-winner decider after producing two "mini" upsets in last week's heats courtesy of underrated sprinters Fat Boy's Dream and Frisky Felon.

FIELDS AND FORM THE GARDENS FRIDAY NIGHT

And while the in-form pairing go into Friday night's finale at double figure odds, Davidson is daring to dream, with a coveted place in the Million Dollar Chase semi-finals at Wentworth Park next month up for grabs for the first three across the line.

"I'd just love to get on that podium somewhere … doesn't matter in which spot, just on there and book that (MDC) semi-final place," Davidson said.

"With The Gardens being my home track to qualify two runners for a race like the Black Top is a real buzz.

"Both dogs are owned by terrific people and Mel and I will have plenty of friends and family there. My grandkids are going to lead our two runners onto the track with us which makes it even more special.

"But as for our chances go I know we've got the job ahead. It's a hot race."

The emergence of Frisky Felon through to the Black Top has been reward for patience and perseverance on Davidson's part.

Winner at 10 of her 38 starts, Frisky Felon, a daughter of Fabregas and 2020 Black Top runner-up Left Unsaid, has come into her own of late, including her sizzling last start 29.51 Black Top heat success where he remarkable early speed was on full display.

"From early on she kept giving me this feeling that in time she'd get to another level and she has … but it took time," Davidson said.

"There's been times where she's tested that patience but I gave her a break in early July and she has really found another level since she's returned.

"Early on she looked like she was going to be vulnerable at 500m and I'm sure a lot of trainers would have moved her on but I'm just glad I stuck at it with her because we are getting the rewards now.

"She's definitely been a great reminder about what time and patience can achieve."

Frisky Felon, unbeaten in three starts at The Gardens 515m journey, is a $19 chance for the final from box two while Fat Boy's Dream, a five-time victor at the track and distance with a flying 29.28 personal best time, is a $15 elect from box six.

Favouritism at $2.30 is with the Dennis Barnes-trained Nangar Lucy, the fastest qualifier drawing ideally in box one, while recent Dapto Megastar hero Umberto is at $2.80 from box three.

The Black Top is race seven on Friday night's card, due to go at 8.49pm.