Sprinting Heavyweights Set To Clash At Sandown

MILLION Dollar Chase pre-post favourites Simon Told Helen and Shima Shine will clash in a mouthwatering first heat of the Victorian National Sprint series (515m) at Sandown Park on Thursday night.

And it's a clash Shima Shine's part-owner David Gleeson has long been waiting for following the pair's first and only encounter in January's Group 1 Silver Chief at The Meadows won by Simon Told Helen.

"I've been looking forward to both dogs racing each other injury free and in good form – it should be a terrific race," Gleeson said.

“And to be drawn inside Simon Told Helen is important for us as well. On Thursday night he'll need to come around us which should make for a great race.”

Two weeks ago Shima Shine recorded a scintillating near-record 28.95 to score at Sandown Park, win 18 of his injury interrupted 29 start career.

Just 48 hours later, Simon Told Helen stepped out at The Meadows, stopping the clock in 29.60 to win the Maturity Classic – the fourth group 1 victory of his booming career.

"The way both dogs are racing will make for an interesting race I think," Gleeson added.

"(Shima) Shine went 4.93 early when he won at Sandown the other night and he has gone 4.96 early as well. Being drawn inside Simon Told Helen gives him the chance to hold him out early.

"I'd say our fella is the stronger of the two so I wouldn't think he could run us down if we led. But Simon Told Helen just has that exhilarating mid race pace … as do we. I'm really looking forward to Thursday and seeing how we go."

Two heats of the Victorian National Sprint are programmed for decision this Thursday night with next week's series winner to take home a lot more than the $12,000 winner's cheque.

Each of the State sprint winners' will be awarded direct entry into the TAB Million Dollar Chase semi-finals at Wentworth Park on October 9, just one step away from contesting the $1 million to-the-winner grand finale.

"It takes on some extra significance doesn't it?" Gleeson added.

"It's something the Daillys and I have spoken about and with the way things are at the moment (with coronavirus) having a spot locked away will certainly make life easier later on."

Early markets for Thursday's clash see Simon Told Helen the firm $1.60 favourite from box four ahead of Shima Shine at $2 (box two).

Both are $12 favourites in all-in betting for the Million Dollar Chase.

And while a tilt at the world's richest greyhound event will be a first for Simon Told Helen, the same can't be said for Shima Shine, the son of Barcia Bale finishing a courageous second to Good Odds Harada in last year's final at just start 12.

"He was only a baby back then," Gleeson said.

"He's had a terrible run with injuries but he's back to his best now which is why we are looking so forward to Thursday night.

"I'm very confident he'll run a very good race. But I have a lot of respect for Simon Told Helen – how can't you? It'll be a top race."