The Launching Pad is one of the most exciting series of the year and it culminates tonight at Sandown Park. Not only will some finalists go on to be stars of the sport, but we’re also going to see some out of the Consolation and Runway final.

If that wasn’t enough, we get a ripping edition of the Easter Gift which features Phoenix winner Deadly Avenger and Australian Cup winner Dramatical.

Join me on Sky Racing 1 before every race at Sandown Park tonight.

BEST
Sandown Park, Race 4, Robinson (3)
This speed map gives him every possible chance to produce his best, which will be good enough to win the race. There won’t be much pressure from the greyhounds drawn around him. The best of the challengers are Mav Reiko (7) and Typhoon Baylee (8) but if they don’t cross Robinson I think he’ll win the race.

NEXT BEST
Sandown Park, Race 6, Abdulla Zulu (1)
This draw is just perfect for him as he will be able to accelerate and just about lead, if he does they won’t get him. Early speed will also come from Upended (3) and Simply Stunning (4) but with the track position Abdulla Zulu should have, he holds the cards.

BEST VALUE
Sandown Park, Race 8, Highly Potent (4)
I feel like we’re yet to see the best of what this girl can offer and I think her best will go a long way to winning a Launching Pad. The first 50m is crucial but I think she has the best acceleration of any greyhound here, meaning if she begins cleanly she’s right in it. Her strength isn’t a concern given her assets mid-race.

WORTH THE RISK/TAKE ON
Sandown Park, Race 8, Blue Storm (2)
Well, we had the same take on him last week and he won – despite the enormity of the performance he was fortunate that others were setting slow time up-front. Same approach here – he will be average to begin, he will get crossed and he will want to get wide. I’d love him to win because it would be another box office performance, but the reality is he’s under the odds.

QUADDIE
Race 5: 5,6,8,9
Race 6: 1,4
Race 7: 1,3,6,7
Race 8: 2,4,6

Blue Storm (1) was absolutely outstanding in his semi-final