Sandgroper elevated to group 1 status

The $600,000 Sandgroper (520m) has been elevated to a Group 1 to mark the third greyhound racing event to be bestowed the prestigious status in Western Australia.

Held at Cannington each April since 2023 as part of the Western Trilogy, the Sandgroper is WA’s richest greyhound race.

Racing WA Greyhound Operations Manager Peter Howell said the Group 1 promotion was a fantastic result for WA greyhound racing.

“The three instalments of The Sandgroper have showcased impressive talent and a high calibre of greyhound racing, so it’s fitting to be recognised formally with Group 1 status,” he said.

“This recognition from the Greyhound Clubs Australia Racing Sub Committee cements the Sandgroper’s place on the national stage and highlights the strength of greyhound racing in WA.

“It’s a proud moment for everyone involved in our State’s greyhound code and we look forward to crowning the Group 1 Sandgroper winner at TABtouch Park Cannington in 2026.”

The elevation of the Sandgroper to Group 1 status sees the race stand proudly alongside the Group 1 Galaxy and Group 1 Perth Cup as WA’s premier greyhound races.

The inaugural Sandgroper in 2023 was won by West Australian product Crumble Monelli for leading trainer David Hobby.

East coast raiders have taken out the past two Sandgropers, with Hector Fawley claiming bragging rights in 2024 for Lisa Cockerell and Deadly Avenger in 2025 for trainer George Borg.

Racing WA Chief Racing Officer David Hunter said the elevation to Group 1 status confirmed the Sandgroper was a key fixture on the national greyhound racing calendar.

“The TABtouch Western Trilogy is a bold and innovative racing initiative by Racing WA, and we are pleased to see another leg of the series awarded Group 1 status,” he said.

“We look forward to fourth edition of the world first series, where we will crown another Group 1 winning greyhound in our State.”

Australian betting sites do not currently have Sandgroper odds available, with these made live when the race draws closer.