3 minute read

Jet lag was not the word on Morton's tongue when he set tongues wagging with an ultra impressive first look at Cannington greyhound track. The Group One winning son of champion Western Australian chaser Tommy Shelby burnt the clock with a blinding 29.77 run for the 520 metre journey. His sectionals of 5.52 and 13.81 bringing a smile to trainer Jason Sharp's face.

Since his Australian Cup failure when he ran seventh as the fastest heat qualifier mystery surrounded Morton's whereabouts. Trainer Jason Sharp has been quick to explain what occurred and why his performance was below his best. Morton suffered bruising to his hock and rather than push on the decision was made to ease up on any further racing preperation until they felt he was fully recovered.

In the early part of this year the world was Morton's oyster as he showed his ability in Qld contesting the Group One Gold Bullion and the Qld Group Two Derby and won both cementing his place as one of the most talented and exciting chasers in Australia. His overall record of 23 starts for 14 wins and 5 minor placings confirms his competiveness let alone the $412,000 in prize money he has already won.

The Sharps will stay with the Withers family in the lead up to The Sandgroper which will be held on the 18th of April with $300,000 going to the winner. Morton will represent TABtouch who are just one off the slot holders. Morton will fly back into Perth on Tuesday next week giving them a few days to settle back in amid preparations for the race. 

Explicit is currently the favorite at $2.50 and without doubt based on the slotholders selections so far box draws will be a massive advantage as many of the runners are front running types. A good box and a good beginning will be crucial as Crumble Monelli the winner of the first Sandgroper addition can attest after landing in front and leading a merry dance. 

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