THE stage is set for a blockbuster Group One Golden Sands Final following a thrilling night of heat racing at Q2 Parklands last week.
Run over the demanding 600m, tonight’s feature carries a total purse of $150,000, with a life-changing $100,000 awaiting the winner.
The final field is stacked with speed, class and proven big-race performers, promising a high-quality contest under lights.
Miss Envy set the tone early, claiming the first heat at $2.50 with another strong performance. Prepared by Krystal Shinners, the Aston Dee Bee x Miss America bitch continues to thrive, extending her current streak to nine consecutive runs without finishing out of the placings, including six victories.
Her overall record now stands at an imposing 26 wins and 14 placings from 45 starts.
The night’s biggest statement came in heat two, where emerging star Jay Walking announced himself as a serious Group One contender.
Stepping up to 600m last week, he blew his rivals away, scoring by 8.25 lengths and shattering the track record with a brilliant 34.05. Trained by Jamie Hosking, the Fernando Bale x Micks Recall chaser is combining explosive early speed with increasing strength and stamina.
From just 32 career starts, he has already recorded 14 wins and surpassed $100,000 in prizemoney.
“He’s been building a really good record of late and learning how to race at the top level,” Hosking said.
Heat three produced the surprise of the night, with Autumn Storm charging home at $8.50. Trained by Tom Tzouvelis, the Aston Rupee x Look Fancy Nancy chaser brings elite credentials into the final.
The Golden Sands Final box draw is locked in with Zig Zag Man (1), Electrify (2), Autumn Storm (3), Brunswick Bullet (4), Miss Envy (5), Zipping Xaden (6), Jay Walking (7) and Canya Nucleur (8), with Keep Rolling and Whiskey McGraw named as reserves.
