Search

show me:

Afire and Debbie hold cards in G1 finals

3 minute read

After two sensational sets of heats, fields are finalised for the Group 1 Sportsbet Harrison-Dawson and Group 1 Sportsbet Sapphire Crown to be run at Sandown Park next Thursday night.

Afire with Dylan Sharp and Cruising Debbie with Brendan Pursell.
Afire with Dylan Sharp and Cruising Debbie with Brendan Pursell. Picture: Jason McKeown

Since markets opened Afire has been best supported after coming up with the coveted box 1 in the male greyhound only Harrison-Dawson final. His performance in his heat was superb, holding off a gallant Smooth Plane in 29.19 – the fastest time of the night and fourth fastest at the track this year.

It was the highlight on a memorable night for trainer Jason Sharp and his family. They'll also have kennel star Morton and his brother Stormy Day line up in the decider, as well as Desired Path in the female greyhound only Sapphire Crown.

"It's special, it's everything the family has worked hard for," said Dylan Sharp after Afire's win.

Launching Pad champion Cruising Debbie was an all-the-way winner in her heat of the Sapphire, narrowly holding off Granny Roses.

Paul Bartolo-trained Magic Muffin took series' time honours with 29.46 in the final heat.

Markets suggest an open race with five runners at single-figure odds.

Next Thursday's card will also see heats of the Sportsbet Sandown Cup which will feature Queensland staying star Valpolicella. She was a tough winner at Albion Park last night in what was her final hit out before returning to Sandown Park.


Racing and Sports

What’s gambling really costing you?

For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au