Champion sprinter Black Opium has finally claimed her first win at Group 1 level after taking out tonight’s Sapphire Crown Final at Sandown Park.
After bursting on the scene 18 months ago and finishing runner-up three times at Group 1 level in the early stages of her career, Jason Thompson’s megastar claimed a $50,000 first prize, taking her career earnings beyond half a million dollars.
The daughter of Black Magic Opal and Captivating had to work hard for her victory tonight, settling off the pace, being held up briefly and proving too strong in the home straight.
It was a Thompson quinella, with Aston Silk running second and Origami Angel (Matt Lanigan) third.
WATCH: BLACK OPIUM finally claimed the first group win of her illustrious career in tonight’s G1 Sapphire Crown at Sandown Park, asserting her authority in the home straight to score in 29.57sec over kennelmate ASTON SILK (5).
Photos by Clint Anderson
