By JASON ADAMS
DZEKO looms as one of the main dangers heading into the RSN Sandown Cup, after taking out Thursday evening’s Group 3 Lizrene.
Dzeko began well from box 5 to settle third behind leaders Mepunga Tiara and Lady Toy. Dzeko closed the gap on the leaders mid race, with favourite Sweet It Is also looming large.
Approaching the home turn, Dzeko and Sweet It Is swamped the early leaders and went stride for stride to the line, Dzeko holding out Sweet It Is to claim the $25,000 first prize in a swift 41.54.
“I don’t even know what to say,” said Dzeko’s elated trainer Angela Jackson.
“Tonight she jumped really well, probably the best she’s ever come out here.
“After that I was looking for where Sweet It Is was and I could see her coming though – she (Dzeko) just kicked on really well and just kept on going.”
“She always comes home like a train, so she was in a great position when she sat third.
“I’m in shock, I’m thrilled.”
The win continued Dzeko’s outstanding record at the track, having won three and placed in four of her nine starts, taking her prize money to $53,810.
The run confirmed Dzeko’s status as one of the up-and-coming stars of the staying ranks, heading into the RSN Sandown Cup carnival.
“She’ll definitely be back in a fortnight’s time for the Sandown Cup – hopefully she can draw the red box,” laughed Jackson.
Earlier in the night, veteran Sisco Rage collected his first Group race title when claiming the Group 3 Racecallers in 34.15 for trainer John Galea.
Wayne Vassallo’s It’s A Plane took out the GRV VBIS Maiden final, railing strongly to win in 29.64.
Sandown’s autumn carnival heats up yet again this Thursday evening, with Australia’s best sprinters set to contest heats of the Group 1 Harrison Dawson and Group 1 Sapphire Crown series.
The $145,000 Group 1 finals will be run the following Thursday, 14 May, along with heats of the RSN Sandown Cup. The $250,000 RSN Sandown Cup will be run Thursday, 21 May.
