Noel Callow boots home Roman Arch in last year’s Sandown Classic.By Glen Atwell
AFTER four days at fabulous Flemington, the metropolitan Spring Racing Carnival concludes in grand style at Sandown Racecourse on Saturday.
The $401,000 Group 2 Sandown Classic over 2400 metres has attracted 22 nominations, and the race is shaping up to be as strong as ever.
Roman Arch returns to the race in an attempt to win back-to-back Sandown Classics, but will be without his winning partner Noel Callow, who is serving a suspension. Nash Rawiller has picked up the ride on the Robbie Laing-trained gelding.
Yalumba Stakes winner Casual Pass is among the nominations, as is Queen Elizabeth Stakes winner Gallant Guru and last Saturday’s Hilton International Stakes winner Brom Felinity.
Melbourne Cup week winners Furio, Southern Courage and Utility, Sydney visitor Fooram, lightly raced international Bay Story and Makybe Diva’s half-sister Valkyrie Diva have also nominated.
Short Pause is the only 2006 Melbourne Cup horse nominated for the Sandown Classic.
Leading trainer David Hayes will have his sights set on back-to-back wins in the Group 2 Sandown Guineas.
The event is raced over 1600 metres, with the Hayes-trained Permaiscuous to be favourite to win the $401,000 prize money.
Admission to the day is $20 for adults, $12 concessions and children under 18 accompanied by an adult are admitted free.
Entry is via the Princes Highway overpass or Springvale Road, and gates open at 10.30am.
