This Wednesday’s metropolitan race card at Sandown could feature three OTI runners in Knightlaila, Celebrity’s Beau and Cadazio.
Knightlaila will go into his race on Wednesday third up over 2400m, after competing over 2040m last start at Moonee Valley in late March, finishing 7th beaten 4 lengths. The step up in distance will suit the 4yo well, already proving that he can be most competitive over the journey when he finished 2nd at Tramore, Ireland in August 2022.
Knightlaila has been allocated 60.5kg in Wednesday’s race, with Stokes’ apprentice Gary Lo to claim 2kg from that impost.
To see the full field and all race details click here.
Peter Moody’s Celebrity’s Beau and and Price/Kent trained Cadazio will possibly meet in the last at Sandown over 1800m.
Celebrity’s Beau, who is currently sitting as second emergency for the race, comes into the race second up after a fair run at Pakenham three weeks ago. Expected to have improved in fitness, the rise in distance should see the gelding closer in the finish this time in.
“His work at home has been pleasing as he worked strong through the line in his gallops. His overall condition is fantastic. Even though his last performance wasn’t bad I expect him to show an improved effort at Sandown.” said trainer Peter Moody in an update to owners last week.
Cadazio also comes into this race second up after his run over 1600m last start at Sandown.
“His run at Sandown was a little underwhelming and I think the more racing he does the better he will be going. I’m confident he can run well and improve from last start and we’ll see where we go from there, Adelaide could still be an option for him. If we can see him finish in the first four I’d be happy.” said Price prior to race day.
Trainer Mick Price expects to see a good tempo in the race and by that time of the day, most horses will probably be getting off the fence with the softer condition of the track. Having won on a soft track previously at Geelong, the conditions shouldn’t be of any concern for the 3yo.
See all race details and the full field for Cadazio’s and Celebrity’s Beau’s race here.
Best of luck to all connections!