Rated the kennel's fastest early dog by trainer Darren McDonald, Nova Surf shanghaied from box 7 to cross to the rail and lead through the first turn.

The former NSW sprinter was never challenged, racing to a 4-length win over the fast-finishing Boozeroo in a slick 29.74 seconds.

Former trainer Neal Gray sent Nova Surf to McDonald for her Laurels campaign, and the master Victorian mentor has helped guide the daughter of Surf Lorian into her third Group 1 final.

Nova Surf's grip on the $50,000 first prize and free service to 2005 group 1 Topgun winner Black Enforcer tightened further when she drew ideally in box seven for the final. Mystical Soul took out the night's opening semi-final with an impressive 3-length win over race favourite Infuriation.

Mirella Bale proved too good in a blanket finish in the third semi-final, edging out Nitrane and favourite Brislane by a half length.

In the last semi-final, Ashby Rose continued her good form to defeat roughie Bronte's Chat by 5 lengths.

The win was her third in succession and took her record to three wins from four starts at Sandown Park.

Amity Bale confirmed her status as the rising star of Australia's staying ranks, winning her heat of the $36,000 group 2 McKenna Memorial.

The scratchings of Group 1 Albion Park Gold Cup winner Queen Lauryn and 2008 Group 1 Sandown Cup winner Chinatown Lad ensured Graeme Bate's charge started a favourite.

Amity Bale found the rail behind early leader Which Wabbit before weaving through the field and racing away to a comprehensive win.

Reigning Radio Sport 927 Sandown Cup winner Mantra Lad was sent out favourite in the second heat but had no answer for Kulu Warrior, who won his fourth consecutive race.

The final of the 2009 group 1 Hawkins Media Laurels and group 2 McKenna Memorial will be run at Sandown Park this Thursday night.