Young trainer Matt Johnson is set for the biggest moment of his short training career when Poise lines up in the Sapphire Crown final.
He has been training for just two years and claimed his first city win in February – click here for full story.
His charge Poise is the first greyhound Johnson has ever trained. She is in a rich vein of form having won four of her last five outings, with the only blemish when runner-up behind one of Australia’s most powerful sprinters in last week’s heat.
“It was pretty surreal (to qualify for the final). I went in hoping for a good clean run out the boxes. She (Poise) came out well but then Zipping Bailey got a clear run, so I was just hoping she could hang on for 2nd,” laughed Johnson.
Since making the final he has had great support from family and friends with many messages passing on the best of luck.
“I always have lots of support, everyone has gotten behind me from the beginning.
“I think my family are more nervous than I am. It’s been a real team effort and I appreciate everyone’s support.”
Poise is drawn favourably in box 2 though is rated a $17 chance with tab.com.au.
“She needs a lot of luck and a clear break. She’s not the fastest in the race but she’s got a big heart and will try her guts out all the way to the finish.”
The $100,000 to-the-winner female greyhound only Sapphire Crown is one leg of a treble of Group 1 events on Friday night, headlined by the RSN Sandown Cup.
Click here for Friday’s fields
