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Senso Unico (scarlet, gold crossed sashes) fending off the challenge of Triple Time (Picture: Wayne Marks)

The big Vaughan Marshall-trained Twice Over gelding Senso Unico was always going to be a horse who needed time and he finally earned bold black type at the age five on Saturday at Hollywoodbets Durbanville.

The big galloper with the big stride is at his best on the back of a good pace over a testing distance and he finally got a good pace in the Listed Hollywoodbets Settlers Trophy over 2000m on Saturday.

He sat one wide one in midfield in the nine horse field after being rousted from a wide draw by Luyolo Mxothwa.

The Futurist set good fractions that enabled Senso Unico to use his big stride without being cramped for galloping room.

In the straight his resolute finish soon saw him take command as others began gasping for air.

However, he had to withstand a late surge by the favourite Triple Time and only just held on (by a head).

The latter was a touch unlucky as he had to switch all the way from the inside rail to the outside of runners to get a clear run.

Senso Unico is owned by AN Foster and the Honorary Mrs. GR Foster and was bred by AN Foster.

His connections will be hoping for more fast-paced races to bring out the best in the big gelding.