SANDS STRIKES AT SANDOWN

Bondi Sands will struggle to fill the sizeable void left by Russian Camelot in the Danny O'Brien stable but the fellow British import appears destined to win his fair share of races in Australia.

Ridden by Damien Oliver, Bondi Sands ($11) won his first race in his new surrounds from his second visit to Sandown Lakeside in a Benchmark 64 Handicap (2100m) on Wednesday.

Bondi Sands settled fifth off the strong tempo established by tearaway leader Dargo ($21) and hit the lead shortly after straightening before fending off the late challenge of Blue Ocean ($5) to win by three-quarters of a length. There was a seven-length gap to Rippa Choice ($5) in third.

Bondi Sands raced six times in Britain for the China Horse Club, trained by Mark Johnston, and competed in respectable age-restricted middle distance events. His Australian ownership group acquired Bondi Sands following his first win at his final UK run over 2414 metres at Newmarket last June.

Oliver was aboard Bondi Sands when he finished last of eight at his local debut over 1600 metres at Sandown Lakeside on March 3, running the equal quickest final 200 metres of the race along with race winner Eagles Crag.

"First up we rode him quiet, and they were basically too quick for him but late he was actually okay late," Oliver said.

"So, I said to Danny (O'Brien), you've just got to get him straight up in trip and he was able to race a little bit closer today. I got there (to the front) a little soon but he was really waiting for the other horses. When he saw the other horse (Blue Ocean) he went again."

By Carl Di Iorio for Racing.com

Pic by Racing Photos