Showdown runners given all-clear to start

The starters in the inaugural running of The Showdown have been given the green light by Racing Victoria vets to run in the $1 million race at Caulfield.

However three of the two-year-olds will be re-examined on course on Saturday.

The Leon and Troy Corstens pair of Free Thrills and Heka Express were passed fit on Friday after presenting with lameness in their near forelegs when inspected on Wednesday.

Easing $4.40 second favourite Sartorial Splendor, trained by John Sadler, will have a wound on his near fore heel examined as a precaution after also being given the all-clear by vets on Friday.

The Lindsay Park-trained first and third emergencies Angel Rock and Judgement were withdrawn on Friday afternoon with vet certificates.

Second and fourth emergencies, Three Legs In, trained by Ciaron Maher and David Eustace, and the Lindsay Park-trained Fiorente’s Girl, passed their inspections but will need to wait until the 7.30am scratching deadline on Saturday to see if they gain a start.