It was a night of high octane emotion at Sandown Park on Thursday following the running of the Group 1 Sportsbet Sapphire Crown and Group 1 Sportsbet Harrison-Dawson.

Four heats of the Group 1 Sportsbet Sandown Cup were also staged which sets up a very competitive final to be run next Friday.

SAPPHIRE CROWN

Here Comes Milli speared out and led all-of-the-way to capture trainer Des Douch his first Group 1 win.

Douch had been involved in thoroughbred racing for most of his life before turning to greyhounds after a serious car accident.

Here Comes Milli’s grand dam Easy Baby was the first greyhound Douch acquired.

“It was great to see her jump like that. I’m absolutely thrilled,” said Douch.

WATCH: Here Comes Milli (6) faultless from go-to-whoa, followed by Kat Ernst speaking with Des Douch and connections

HARRISON-DAWSON

While attention surrounded Jason Sharp trained Afire and Morton it was the third-wheel of the trio Stormy Day who upstaged his kennel mates with a peak performance when it mattered.

He flew out to lead comfortably before Flying Zulu launched a late charge but narrowly missed.

“It’s absolutely amazing, I couldn’t be prouder of our team.” said Nadine Jack, handler of Stormy Day.

WATCH: Stormy Day (6) produces his finest work, followed by Kat Ernst speaking with Team Sharp

SANDOWN CUP HEATS

Valpolicella has opened favourite ahead of next Friday’s Group 1 Sportsbet Sandown Cup final after drawing box 1.

She was absolutely superb with a come-from-behind win in her heat which was yet another reminder or her elite versatility. If she wins the Cup she will become the 15th greyhound to surpass $1m in prize money.

“I was thinking that she was too far back. She knows how to get through a field,” said trainer Tony Zammit post-race.

Rob Britton trained Unreal Speed is considered the main challenger in next Friday’s final followed by Canya Amy and Fast Minardi.

WATCH: Valpolicella (4) flexes her muscle, followed by Kat Ernst speaking with Tony Zammit