By Jason Adams
We expected a ludicrous amount of early speed in Thursday night’s Sportsbet Sapphire Crown heats at Sandown Park – and that’s exactly what we got.
Whispered not only caused a massive upset in the opening heat, but also recorded the fastest time (29.335) of the series. She charged across from the wide draw and extended late to defeat Lamia Nonna Mim, with both qualifying for the final. It was a huge thrill for trainer Keith Lancaster and the Manolitsis family.
Whispered (6) defeats Lamia Nonna Mim (3) in Heat 1 (29.335)
Secret Bandit was deadset faultless in Heat 2, a significant improvement on her first look at the track last week. She led throughout and won (in 29.381) comfortably for the powerful Lord-Thompson combination, with Highly Potent finishing runner-up.
Secret Bandit (5) defeats Highly Potent (2) in Heat 2 (29.381)
Jason Thompson was again to the fore in the third heat as series heavyweight Distinction proved too strong. By her standards she was slow to begin, but quickly mustered to settle behind leader Upended before taking control. It was a gutsy performance, while Paw Waverly stormed home late to grab second and book her place in the final.
Distinction (7) defeats Paw Waverly (4) in Heat 3 (29.739)
In the final heat, Simply Stunning became the third winner to lead all the way. She exploded from box 1 while main danger Paw Matic found drama early. Simply Stunning put a gap on the rest for the Presutto team, while roughie Dr. Babette narrowly held 2nd to advance.
Simply Stunning (1) defeats Dr. Babette (3) in Heat 4 (29.473)
Distinction is expected to start favourite after coming up with an inside draw for next Friday’s Group 1 Sportsbet Sapphire Crown final.
