Victorian greyhounds shine at Sandown ahead of The Sandgroper
Sandown Park was the stage for a display by Victorian greyhounds Big Energy and Explicit on Thursday evening as they flaunted their skills before heading to Western Australia for the $600,000 The Sandgroper race.
Big Energy, representing Mintbet in The Sandgroper event at Cannington on April 18, made a remarkable recovery from injury with a swift 29.15 Best of Night victory.
Trained by Kel and Jackie Greenough, this greyhound exhibited speed and dominance, leaving competitors trailing behind.
On the other hand, fan favourite and leading bookmaker favourtie, Explicit from Sandgropers Camp, Punters HQ, clinched a win in 29.37, marking the night's second-best performance.
Under the guidance of renowned trainer Jason Thompson, this greyhound showcased tenacity and perseverance throughout the race.
Making his comeback to Sandown Park after a break, Big Energy displayed his expertise and experience.
Starting as the $2.10 favourite, he convincingly outpaced Elite Alex by a margin of 8.5 lengths, highlighting his abilities and promise.
4/4/24 Sandown Park Race 8 Replay – Big Energy (1st)
Despite this showing, trainer Kel Greenough remained focused on the challenge in Perth while acknowledging that Big Energy was still recovering from injury.
He stressed the importance of gaining field experience and building confidence for competitions.
“It was good to see him back,” mentioned Greenough.
With most of the competition in The Sandgroper Field being Victorian greyhounds, Big Energy's familiarity with Cannington could give him an advantage.
The greyhound has a track record of three wins out of six races at Cannington, potentially setting them apart in this competition.
Greenough expressed his appreciation for Steve Withers support, who will be hosting Big Energy during their time in Western Australia.
He emphasised the importance of helping the greyhound adjust and feel comfortable in its environment.
Currently, Big Energy is ranked as the third favourite at $4.80 for The Sandgroper race, with Explicit leading as the favourite at $3 with Neds Bookmaker.
Both greyhounds have shown skill and determination, promising an exciting showdown at the upcoming event.
In another race at Sandown Park, Explicit returned triumphantly to the over 500m distance after winning the G2 Shepparton Cup.
Despite being the first race over 500m since the 8th place finish in February's Australian Cup semi-finals, Explicit showcased his dominance by leading and narrowly beating Succeed by a neck as a heavy $1.40 favourite.
4/4/24 Sandown Park Race 6 Replay – Explicit (1st)
With a career record of 15 wins out of 19 races, Thompson is confident in Explicit's ability to adjust to the journey out of state.
He emphasised the importance of a trial at Cannington before heading to The Sandgroper.
As anticipation grows for The Sandgroper, all eyes are on Big Energy and Explicit as they set out on their pursuit of victory in Western Australia.
2024 The Sandgroper Odds
Odds as of April 6, 2024 – Courtesy of Neds
-
Explicit Win $3.00 Place $1.50
-
Big Energy Win $4.80 Place $1.95
-
Trooper Tears Win $6.00 Place $2.25
-
Fernando Phil Win $11 Place $3.50
-
Sunset Frazier Win $11 Place $3.50