Sandown upbeat despite inspection

Officials at Sandown Park remain “extremely optimistic” of tomorrow’s William Hill – Tingle Creek Trophy meeting at Sandown going ahead despite calling a precautionary inspection at 7.30am.

Racing took place on the Esher circuit without a hitch today and the course is described as “perfectly raceable“.

However, half an inch of rain did fall last night and a further amount is forecast tonight.

“It seems sensible to cover all eventualities and it doesn’t do any harm. It is purely precautionary,” said clerk of the course Andrew Cooper.

“We had half an inch of rain last night and another half an inch is forecast tonight. It’s just in case the heavens did open.

“The course is perfectly raceable and we are extremely optimistic.”

The going is soft on the chase course and heavy, soft in places on the hurdle track.