Top Group One Cast Travels For Brisbane Cup Showdown

Written By Anthony Millican, Brisbane Greyhound Racing Correspondent Tuesday 1st December 2009

A barrage of Australia’s Group winning greyhounds are on their way to Brisbane for this week’s Group One Sky Racing Brisbane Cup Heats.

The elite race at Albion Park is usually one of the Brisbane Greyhound Racing Club’s largest nights of the year, and attracts only the best in Greyhound Racing with last year’s winner the famous El Galo.

Amongst the southern national speedsters vying for their place in the $55,000 to the winner final this year is last week’s Melbourne Cup winner Lord Ducal, who pocketed $175,000 for his efforts.

The Jon Roberts-trained star blew everyone out of the water from box seven and will be hoping he can recreate his run at the Breakfast Creek-based track on Thursday night.

Another southern traveller who has some Brisbane experience is triple Group One winner Cindeen Shelby, who comes off the back of a top win in the Melbourne Crown Classic.

New South Wales country performer Mighty Albert is also set to make his debut in the Sunshine State after a blistering 30.01 win in town at Wentworth Park last week.

However home ground advantage will be a big influence on the tough heats, with the National Sprint Champion and maroon Dashing Corsair on the hunt for another Group One, and multiple Group Two Queenslander High Earner sure to be favourite in his heat.

Brisbane Greyhound Racing Club general manager Luke Gatehouse said the Sky Racing Brisbane Cup had been taken out by some of Australia’s champions.

“Some of the best greyhounds in racing have won this prestigious race including the likes of Bogie Leigh and last year’s Australian greyhound of the year El Galo,” said Mr Gatehouse.

“We have five fantastic heats which each feature Group winners, Brisbane track specialists, as well as others that are keen to give it a go,” he said.

“And that’s the beauty of Albion Park, it can be quite tricky depending on who else is in the race and what alley you draw, so anyone has a chance of winning.”

The Sky Racing Brisbane Cup final will be held on December 10, and the Club is celebrating with its annual Beach Party. As well as the lightning fast Greyhound Racing action, the Club will feature live entertainment including DJ, roving magicians, a jumping castle for the kids and more.

Mr Gatehouse said due to the calibre of racing and the time of year, the Brisbane Cup had become one of the biggest crowd drawers for the Club.

“It is an enormous night and a lot of fun for the whole family,” he said.

“Last year was truly amazing, with one of our largest crowds in this facility, and I predict this year’s will be bigger and better.”