Island Banner ($2) was sent out favourite for Wednesday’s regional edition of the series at Bathurst Paceway after she finished fourth in the premier Group 1 NSW Breeders Challenge.

The Rock N Roll Heaven filly, trained by Craig Cross and driven by Luke McCarthy, found the lead before the bell and held it until the end to win in a 1:55.7 mile rate.

“Early on she didn’t work much but she’s gotten better and better with her racing,” McCarthy said.

“She got fourth in the Breeders Challenge and we freshened her up to have a go in this series and she came out and raced super tonight.

“[Her dam] Mainland Banner was a champion. This filly’s not in that class but I’m sure she can go on to win a few races and be a good broodmare.”

Island Banner was joined by the race’s next best-backed runner, Art Series ($3.30), out in front on the final lap.

As punters expected the pair fought out the finish, but they were joined by Brazilian Rocker ($13.10) who made a big run down the sprint lane.

Art Series drifted a touch and had to play catch up to the other two contenders.

The Amanda Turnbull-driven runner finished fastest of the group but Island Banner was too classy and won by two metres.

Art Series nabbed second place by a short half head over Brazilian Rocker.

All of the top three runners showed they will be ones to watch in Sunday’s final.