Sandown Racing Preview: A Winning Day at the Races
As the anticipation builds for the Sandown meeting on Saturday, Herald Sun and Racenet form analyst Gilbert Gardiner provides insights into the day’s events that promise excitement for punters and racing enthusiasts alike. With the AFL Grand Final in full swing, this race day adds an extra layer of thrill for sports fans. Let’s dive into the best bets and notable horses set to make a mark on the Sandown track.
Best Bet: Zloties Steps Up
Kicking off with a strong selection, ZLOTIES (Race 3, No. 7) at odds of $3.10 stands out as the best bet of the day. Under the guidance of trainer Grahame Begg, who will be caught up in the AFL Grand Final at the MCG, fans can expect the red and white colors to shine at Sandown. This horse’s form suggests a promising performance, making it a reliable pick for those looking to back a runner with solid prospects.
Next Best: Ndola Poised for Glory
In the second race, NDOLA (Race 2, No. 4) is another strong contender, currently priced at $6. While the final field configurations are still being sorted with dual acceptors in play, Ndola’s past performance—most notably a dazzling win at Sandown in recent weeks—places it among the favorites. This horse has demonstrated the ability to thrive on the track, making it a must-watch.
Strong Contender: Desert Lightning
DESERT LIGHTNING (Race 7, No. 1) enters the race as a strong choice at $5.50. The horse had a solid first-up effort, battling a notable weight at The Valley. The competition from that race has already proven competitive, with the runner-up, Arkansaw Kid, securing victory in subsequent outings. This performance suggests Desert Lightning is well-equipped to find success again, making it a key player in the later stages of the meeting.
Value Bet: El Soleado for the Win
For punters seeking a value bet, EL SOLEADO (Race 6, No. 8) offers an enticing option at $12. Previously placing third-up, this horse is expected to come into its own with a well-timed move up to 1800m. Despite a wider draw, El Soleado has shown a preference for racing outside of other horses, which could work in its favor. In recent outings, it’s set up for a potentially great performance.
Jockey Watch: Beau Mertens’ Busy Day
Jockey BEAU MERTENS is set for a busy day with several promising rides. His schedule includes:
- TREASURETHE MOMENT (Race 1, No. 4) at $2.20, an early favorite likely to attract interest from punters.
- VIANARRA (Race 2, No. 8) at $41, presenting an intriguing value proposition for those willing to take a risk.
- CARINA QUEEN (Race 3, No. 2) at $12, a consistent choice expected to follow closely in the rankings.
- BLUE STRATUM (Race 5, No. 1) at $13, poised to potentially upset the field.
- ARAMCO (Race 6, No. 13) at $6, showing a lot of promise.
- MODOWN (Race 8, No. 18) at $5.50, rounding off Beau’s rides with solid value potential.
Beau Mertens’ skills and experience are invaluable on race day, and his rides are expected to generate buzz among punters looking for the best chances to cash in.
Final Thoughts
With a delightful mix of betting opportunities and intriguing horses, the Sandown meeting promises action aplenty. Whether backing favorites like Zloties and Ndola or exploring the potential of value bets such as El Soleado, racegoers will find plenty to engage with on what is shaping up to be an electrifying day.