News

An all male line-up has been announced to contest the Group 1 Temlee (525m) at The Meadows on Saturday to kickstart the lucrative Australian Cup carnival.

The star-studded field includes some of the sport’s brightest stars during what is a transitional period atop of the sprinting ranks with the retirement of Wow She’s Fast and injuries to Jay Is Jay and Postman Pat.

Two-time group 1 winner Transponder is one of three runners for trainer Jason Thompson who will also line-up multiple country cup winner Alpha Zulu and gifted youngster Explicit.

Winner of the Group 3 Great Chase last year, Explicit, already a guaranteed starter in The Sandgroper at Cannington in April, has returned from injury in devastating form in recent weeks to book his Temlee berth. 2023 Melbourne Cup runner Idolize was moved into the field after Dutch Riot was ruled out with an injury.

The Phoenix winner Schillaci will return to The Meadows after securing his spot while recent Gold Bullion hero Morton, will also take his place in the rich event.

The field is rounded out by Shootout winner Big Energy, still in search of that elusive group 1, and Mepunga Shine, winner of the Group 1 Silver Chief on The Phoenix night last year.

The all important box draw will be conducted on Tuesday where the complexion of the intriguing affair will become clearer in what promises to be a spirited betting event.

 

A quick look at the 2024 Group 1 Zoom Top

Given the lack of depth in the staying ranks, assembling the Group 1 Zoom Top (730m) field was a much easier task.

Headlining the line-up is the return of the sport’s number 1 stayer Palawa King along with last start Group 1 Gold Cup winning Queenslander Valpolicella.

The remainder of the field comprises of Big Suzie, Lena Jinx, Moraine Suzie, Pearly Tears and Zulu Blast while the reserves are Mrs. Avenger and Al’s Entity.

ARTICLE COURTESY OF The Greyhound Recorder