There were no trap problems at Owlerton on Saturday as Sheffield finally completed the first round of their British Bred competition with the long odds-on Russanda Blue came with a strong late run to pass Iconic Murray through the final bends and run on for a length and a half victory in 28.17 for the 480 metres with Battyford Carol back in third.
Russanda Blue joins her litter-brother Russanda Brax in the line-up for Tuesday’s final as part of a strong three-runner squad from local trainer Elaine Parker’s kennel.
The draw for Tuesday’s final is: 1 Southern Ramsy; 2 Russanda Brax (m): 3 Russanda Blue (m); 4 Iconic Murray (m); 5 Johnnys Star (w); 6 Lookoutforbrodie (w).
Tuesday’s card should also produce some pointers for the Stones Bitter Queen Mother Cup, which starts on March 10, as it will feature three trial stakes for the 660-metre Category Two contest.
