2025 Golden Sands: Nangar Gypsy draws prime spot in Group 1 final

Golden Sands Heat 1 – Tagovailoa Dominates (34.97)

Tagovailoa stamped his authority in the opening heat of the Group 1 Golden Sands at Albion Park, delivering a commanding performance to book his spot in next Thursday’s $100,000-to-the-winner final.

The Tom Tzouvelis-trained star clocked 34.97 seconds, showcasing exceptional racecraft and mid-race acceleration over the challenging 600m distance, paying $10 with Neds.

Breaking smartly from box three, Tagovailoa settled just behind the early pace set by Nangar Rocket and Groovebird. Approaching the home straight, Tagovailoa surged through on the inside, holding off a determined Nangar Rocket by half a length.

Groovebird finished third, a further half-length adrift, completing a high-class trifecta. With this victory, Tagovailoa not only secured his place in the final but reaffirmed his credentials as a genuine Group 1 contender.

Golden Sands Heat 2 – Nangar Gypsy Impresses in Golden Sands (34.66)

Nangar Gypsy delivered a dominant front-running display to claim victory in the second heat of the Group 1 Golden Sands at Albion Park, clocking an impressive 34.66 seconds.

Trained by Dennis Barnes, the $2.60 Picklebet favourite showcased her explosive early speed, setting a blistering 9.68-second first sectional and leading throughout the 600m contest.

Autumn Storm chased valiantly, finishing 1.5 lengths behind in second, while Pass Mark secured third after running a strong race from midfield.

Nangar Gypsy’s commanding performance not only secured her place in next week’s final but also solidified her reputation as a formidable contender in the series.

Golden Sands Heat 3 – Ethanol Water Powers Through (34.78)

Ethanol Water solidified her reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the Group 1 Golden Sands, dominating the third heat at Albion Park.

Breaking cleanly from box seven, the $2.25 Blondebet favourite navigated a wide early position before surging past rivals Zephyr and Zipping Chaplin down the back straight.

Her final burst of speed saw her extend the margin to an impressive 6.25 lengths, crossing the line in 34.78 seconds.

The victory underlined Ethanol Water’s versatility and class, as she adjusted seamlessly to mid-race challenges.

Runner-up Zephyr put in a gallant performance, holding on for second, while Zipping Chaplin displayed determination to secure third. With this commanding win, Ethanol Water heads into the final as one of the standout contenders.

Golden Sands Heat 4 – Gold Scotch Impresses (34.69)

Gold Scotch, trained by Anthony Azzopardi, delivered a polished performance to claim the fourth and final heat of the Group 1 Golden Sands at Albion Park.

Exiting box five with determination, the $3.30 PlayUp favourite quickly found her stride, securing an early lead with a sharp 9.59-second first sectional.

Despite strong mid-race pressure from Duffman and Garrison, Gold Scotch displayed superior stamina, crossing the line 2.5 lengths clear in 34.69 seconds.

Runner-up Duffman fought valiantly, showing grit in the home stretch, while Garrison claimed third with a consistent run.

Gold Scotch’s victory reinforces her credentials as a top contender for next week’s final, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown among the series’ elite greyhounds.