Queensland’s most exciting greyhound Outside Pass proved the highlight of the TAB Melbourne Cup Prelude series three at Sandown Park on Thursday.
After only a moderate getaway Outside Pass manoeuvred herself to clear running, heading to the back straight.
She took control at the top of the home straight and went on to win by 3/4 in 29.38.
Trainer Tony Apap was thrilled post-race.
“From where she was it was a great effort – once she got in that position down the back she was always going to be hard to beat,” he said.
“I was a bit disappointed with her first run back from a spell, but after her second run back I knew she wasn’t far away from her best.”
“All she needs is an ounce of luck in her races as she’s so strong.”
Before heading to the TAB Melbourne Cup heats with Outside Pass, Apap will be eagerly awaiting the Shootout field announcement on Tuesday night. Outside Pass was the first greyhound nominated for the four dog feature.
“I hope she makes the Shootout field. I’d love to see her get a clear run – the small field would suit her down to the ground.
“She’s run in the 29.60s at Albion Park, which is a really hot time. She’s trialled 29.10 at Sandown before so we know she can do it here.
“She’s gone fast anywhere I’ve taken her – she’s got a big motor.”
During Apap’s visits to Victoria he’s accommodated by the Dapiran family. Although the Shootout and TAB Melbourne Cup heats are just around the corner, Apap and Outside Pass will return to their home at Gatton in south east Queensland.
“She’s a bit funny. She’s a one man dog and is only comfortable around me so I couldn’t leave her down here.
“We’ll go home and fly back down for the Shootout if she gets a run, if not the Melbourne Cup heats.”
Other TAB Melbourne Cup Prelude winners on the night were Greysynd Emma and Mystery Ride.
All Prelude winners gain automatic entry into the TAB Melbourne Cup heats on Friday 11 November with the final to be held on the following Friday.
Shootout nominations close at noon this Monday, with the field to be announced on Sky Racing’s The Catching Pen 6.30pm Tuesday night.
For more information head to superdogs.com.au.
