Will Deja Vu Strike Again In New Sensation Final?

Greyhound enthusiasts can be forgiven for having a sense of deja vu last Friday night, as Clay Mullens star chaser Fast Archer clocked a sizzling 29.87 in his semi-final victory, identical to his heat performance one week prior. The inform son of Collision and Clay Model, will be searching for his sixth consecutive win, however faces the tough task of conquering the Group Three New Sensation final from box eight.

Beginning in brilliant fashion from the wide draw, Fast Archer quickly held off his rivals at the run to the first turn, recording a solid 5.45 first section. No doubt the most pleasing aspect for Londonderry trainer Clay Mullens was the run home time of 15.96, the fastest of all four semi-finals, which will play a vital role in the proceedings of this week’s final.

Keeping his perfect Wentworth Park record intact was the Jane Carruthers trained Charmed Assassin, who has been a formidable force in the series thus far having dominating both his heat and semi-final victories, with the added bonus of coming up with a favourable box three in this week’s final. Displaying blistering early speed in running 5.44 to the first peg, the smart son of Magic Sprite and Assassin Journey handled the tricky box six beautifully, leading all the way in a time of 29.87, equal to the best of the semi-finals and firmly cementing his place as a genuine contender in this week’s final.

Despite coming up with box five in this week’s final, Johnny Fire handled the awkward draw impeccably in his semi-final victory last week clocking a speedy 29.88 and maintaining his perfect Wentworth Park statistics of two wins from two starts. Trained on the Central Coast by Trevor Hagney, the son of Knocka Norris and Gunna Oz is yet to be unplaced in any of his seventeen starts and will raise no eyebrows if he continues his remarkable run this week.

Astute trainer Jason Mackay could return to his Richmond Vale property on Saturday night with an astonishing four Group final triumphs in his grasp including; the Group One Golden Easter Egg, Group Three New Sensation, Group Three Ultra Sense and Group Three Magic Maiden final. A litter brother to new Wentworth Park track record holder and Easter Egg finalist Punch One Out, One Inch Punch recruited plenty of admirers in his semi-final win clocking a respectable 29.97 after beginning slowly from box seven, before mowing down his rivals and streaking away to score by 4.5 lengths. Coming up with a challenging box six in the final, some early luck would be the only element needed to possibly give Mackay a group victory running treble.

The inaugural running of the $25,000 to the winner event is guaranteed to be won in the coming years by some outstanding prodigy’s of racing, with all eight finalists engaged in Saturday night’s final deserving flag bearers of the adequately named New Sensation.

Group Three New Sensation Final 8.28pm (NSW time)

1. Lachlan Loaded – Christopher Nutt ($4.20) Comes up with the coveted red rug and genuine early speed can be a threat
2. Cawbourne Hitman – Anthony Lord ($18.00) Stuck on well behind best of the night figures last week. Will need to lift.
3. Charmed Assassin – Jane Carruthers ($3.80) Blistering early speed, will take some catching if she leads at the first turn.
4. Cawbourne Classy – Anthony Lord ($21.00) Ran a solid second last week behind Charmed Assassin, will need to lift to compensate the poor box draw.
5. Johnny Fire – Trevor Hagney ($5.00) Is capable of repeating the same impressive performance as last week from this box
6. One Inch Punch – Jason Mackay ($5.00) In the kennel of NSW hottest trainer, look for her at the finish
7. Haven – Lesley Hannaford ($15.00) Has solid series form, will need to begin well from this box
8. Fast Archer – Clay Mullens ($4.20) In red hot form from this box. Will get the fly from this draw and is capable of leading all the way again

Association Cup Final At Destini Fireball’s Mercy

Whilst the pièce de résistance of group racing for Australian sprinters tonight will undoubtedly be the $250,000 Golden Easter Egg, our top echelon of stayers also have their chance at group glory with the running of the group one Association Cup over the 720 metre distance. Since its inception the $75,000 to the winner event has attracted some of Australia’s best stayers, with the 2013 running no different.

Appearing from box one is new dog on the scene, Fancy Liza, who was very impressive last week on her city distance debut, running one and three quarters of a length behind heat winner Back Page Lead. The daughter of Brett Lee and Sweet Fancy has only had fifteen track appearances but has put together four extremely exciting wins including a track record of 30.14 seconds at Richmond over 535 metres, giving the indication that she is a star in the making. Whilst it is a massive ask to step up to Group level so suddenly, she appears up to the challenge, with box one definitely an advantage.

Victorian super stayer Destini Fireball looks to have the race at his mercy as he lines up from box two. The white and black son of Where’s Pedro is arguably Australia’s best stayer, aside from the all-conquering Miata and has a fantastic chance of scoring his nineteenth race success tonight night in the final. The chaser is certainly on ‘fire’ at the moment as a winner of his past seven starts whilst it is also important to note that Destini Fireball is unbeaten since his step up to the 700 metre trip and undefeated from box two. Despite being ‘underdone’ for his first NSW start, the powerful dog dominated his heat winning emphatically in a quick 42.45 seconds, with plenty of improvement sure to come after his run last week. With an obvious passion for the inside, he should be going close to winning the final.

Exiting from the white is Bit Chilli three year old Miss Nicole for Merrylands mentor Charles Galea. The white and black bitch has won ten races from 43 starts including three impressive wins over the track and distance with a personal best of 42.30 seconds. The handy chaser is your typical stayer who gets back and runs home like a rocket; however she will not be able to afford that tonight against the top dogs, who certainly won’t be giving away any second chances. Whilst she has the ability to run the times she will need to be at her absolute best on the night!

Regally bred Tasmanian Bell Haven will be hoping to bounce back to the winners list for trainer Ted Medhurst when she jumps from box four. The daughter of Head Bound loves racing at Wentworth Park where she has recorded five fantastic wins with a scintillating best of 41.88 seconds, however her form has dipped over her past few runs which along with the awkward alley, does pose a concern. Nonetheless, the top quality bitch is more than capable of reversing her luck, with her last victory being over fellow competitor Back Page Lead in January.

Nowra conditioner Steven White has qualified two runners into the final- which is an amazing training feat in itself. His best chance at taking out the Group One feature appears to be the rising stayer Back Page Lead who has developed an affiliation with the Ultimo Circuit, stringing together four wins over the distance with two minors from only six starts. A daughter of the champion Brett Lee, she does look to have a promising future as a stayer despite turning four later this year, and looks to be one of the main threats to Destini Fireball after clocking last week’s fastest heat win in a speedy 42.17 seconds

Spring Hill trainer Jacob Burke would be elated with the run of his 23 kilogram lightweight Gully Miss who qualified for this week’s Group One when running two and three quarter lengths third behind Back Page Lead in their heat last week. The daughter of former track specialist All Caution who will exit box six has only won four races from forty track appearances but has certainly chosen the right time to showcase her best, and is now in the running to take out the $75,000 winners cheque. Despite her progress of late, she might find the star stayers in the race a bit too much too compete with, however just making the final is quite an achievement.

Beginning from box seven is the second runner from the in-form Steven White kennel, Robert Andrew. The grand old campaigner is four and a half years old and is doing remarkably well to still be racing over the 700 metre distance at his age. A winner of seventeen races from ninety five starts, White has certainly done an amazing job to keep him going. The black dog is certainly bred to stay, being a son of Hallucinate and Deloris making him a full brother to Miagi who was a group winner over the 720 metre distance. It would be a fairytale ending to see him emulate his brother’s success tonight however he does strike a particularly hard field, and with his off the pace racing style, he might be giving them too much of a start.

Graeme Barnett rounds up the group one field with his roughie Hotwire stepping out from box eight. The Big Daddy Cool x Ima Stunner dog has been a fantastic campaigner for his Reedy Creek mentor, winning an impressive seven races over the Wentworth Park staying trip with a best time of 42.38 seconds. Although he has been a model of consistency throughout his career, Hotwire has not managed a victory since last October, and whilst there is no doubt he will chase his heart out, he does look a bit outclassed in the final.

All up, the Association Cup final is a cracking field that will mix both the new and exciting generation of Australian Stayers, with the consistent old stayers that could race around the circuit with their eyes shut. This combination will make it a very exciting race; however Destini Fireball does have everything working in his favour. His biggest threats do look to be Back Page Lead and Fancy Liza- who should improve after her first go at the track and distance last week and can run a cheeky little race from the cherry.

Can Jason Mackay’s Zipping Tess Hold Out The Vics In The Ultra Sense Final?

After three arduous weeks of competition, Sydney’s premier evening of Greyhound Racing is finally here. Tomorrow eighty of Australia’s best chasers will line up across ten spectacular races for 2013 Golden Easter Egg night which will see over $615,000 handed out in prize money to some extremely jubilant connections.

The first of the feature events is race two – The Ultra Sense Final over 520 metres. The 4/5 grade listed event is named after the great Ultra Sense who took out the inaugural running of the Golden Easter Egg over twenty years ago in 1990. This year it has attracted some sensational chasers from around NSW as well as interstate, all vying for a crack at the $15,000 winners cheque.

Nearly every runner in the final has a genuine chance of taking out the race with the prized cherry box going to the Sharron Webster trained Lagoon Lowanna. The black bitch has won seventeen races including three victories at The Ultimo circuit with a scorching 29.84 second personal best over the distance; however this will certainly be one of her biggest tests to date. Despite this she can begin like a rocket, previously clocking a 5.37 first split so she has the potential to be racing up with the leaders at the first turn, the only question being if she can hold off the Victorian ‘big guns’.

Time honours from the heats are held by Victorian powerhouse Gold Town, who has drawn favourably in box two. The son of Surf Lorian was ‘ultra’ impressive in taking out his heat last week, recording a scintillating 29.49 seconds at only his second track start, which gave the track record (at the time) a definite shake. If he runs like he did last week he should be in the finish.

Drawn on his outside in box three is the stunning white and blue El Brooklyn, trained by champion mentor Jason Thompson. The El Galo speedster has a flying personal best of 29.78 seconds over the track and distance, with her only downfall being her box manners which can bring even the best dogs undone at the elite level. Regardless the talented bitch has a fantastic chance of taking out the final, with 21 career victories to her name including the 2013 Healsville Cup. Whilst she will need to begin at her best she does look to have a fantastic shot at taking out the race, and should start as favourite.

Beginning from the blue will be the talented pup My Signature. The black dog by champion sprinter Talk’s Cheap has no early speed and generally walks out of the boxes, however he has one of the biggest motors you will ever see once he hits the ground. This was demonstrated at Gosford when he posted a near track record, running a breathtaking 29.40 seconds for the 515 metre trip. Whilst his speed is evident it is difficult to see him claiming the race, with most of the field being excellent beginners, he will find it hard to run them down in the flying time that will inevitably be posted.

Hunter Valley conditioner Jason Mackay will be hoping that smart young sprinter Zipping Tess can open his winning account for the night as she exits from the awkward box five. The brindle daughter of Bit Chilli and prolific producer Al Fresco has been a handy asset to her on fire kennel, claiming nine impressive victories in her short career of just sixteen starts. Beginning well from box four in last week’s heats, Zipping Tess made every post a winner clocking a fast first section of 5.42 seconds and a stunning overall time of 29.79 seconds. With a slow beginner on her inside the race may well be set up for her if she is good enough to keep with the Victorian duo.

Jerrawa performer Typhoon Banquet has everything stacked against him jumping from box six, with the son of Goodsey having to deal with both a wide draw and an extremely fast beginner on his direct outside. The two year old has not won at the Ultimo circuit, and despite running a handy 29.96 seconds behind heat winner Incumbent last week, he will need to produce his absolute best to threaten the other runners.

Maitland track specialist Little Miss Sparkle is boxed well out wide in seven as she does like to use a bit of the track. The 24 kilogram lightweight is a group one finalist and should run a cheeky race, with stunning victories in 29.59 seconds at Unibet Gardens and 25.25 seconds at Maitland to her name with her only city win recorded in 30.29 seconds from box eight. Whilst it may not look too impressive in this company, it was definitely a dominant win, with the pint sized speedster knocked wide around the first turn and having to chase down the leader to claim victory. If she can be up with the leaders at the first turn, she is in with a chance of snaring the race.

Last but certainly not least is the Peter Sims trained Incumbent who will begin from box eight. A son of international sire Premier Fantasy, the black chaser has plenty of class which he demonstrated when claiming his heat last week in emphatic fashion clocking a phenomenal 29.82 seconds for the 520 metre journey. Whilst he is the least experienced of the eight runners, he is quickly developing into a Wentworth Park specialist winning four of his five starts. The speedster should not be worried by the wide draw as he has won 3 of his 4 starts from the pink alley- one of which was last week’s heat. His biggest concern is being drawn on the outside of Little Miss Sparkle who has the nasty tendency of drifting off at the first turn.

In a very tough race it would be expected that the Victorian raiders will fight it out, however it is hard to ignore Jason Mackay’s Zipping Tess who has the definite advantage of a slow beginner on her inside. Whilst both Little Miss Sparkle and Incumbent are suited out wide, they run the risk of causing each other trouble in the early stages which might just open the race up for Zipping Tess and the Victorian duo, Gold Town and El Brooklyn, who should fight out the finish.

Nowra Summer Puppy Classic Showcase Outstanding Young Talent

Yesterday afternoon, six spectacular heats were conducted for the 2013 Nowra Summer Puppy Classic. Now in its tenth year, the Group Three event is a restricted race for greyhounds whelped between the 1st January 2011 and the 30th June 2011 and carries with it the lucrative winners cheque of $25,000.

Over the past few years the Summer Puppy Classic has unearthed some of NSW’s most promising sprinters, with many of those who have not only won but made the final going on to become city winners and group finalists throughout their careers. Former winners of the prestigious series include Classy Love who took it out in 2012 running an airborne 29.75 seconds for the 520 metre trip, whilst in 2011 it was taken out by the Luke Azzopardi trained Chenzhou Boy, who went on to become a terrific money spinner, being multiple city winner and group finalist, winning a total of 19 races with 34 minor placing’s from 82 starts.

With such a star studded reputation, it was expected that 2013 would again introduce spectators to some outstanding young pups- and those who witnessed the heats yesterday were not disappointed.

The first heat went to the John Antonelli trained Rhonda Spirit, who was too strong for her field in 30.58 seconds. The pint sized black bitch began well from box two and managed to work her way to the front of the pack to win by one length on the line. The daughter of the on fire sire, Magic Sprite and She’s A Dainty, made it her fourth win from fifteen starts after previous victories at both Dapto and Gosford. Behind her in second place was the long odds shot Miss Thunder who was paying an enormous $34.10 for the win, whilst the raging favourite Disco Dave for champion mentor Andrea Dailly also made it through to the semi-final round, running third, two and a quarter lengths behind the winner.

Heat Two saw Antonelli qualify two runners into the semi-finals with a second member of the Magic Sprite x She’s A Dainty litter named Jonardo leading all the way in a red hot 29.91 seconds. The black chaser carried fantastic form into the race being a multiple city winner, and a semi-finalist in the Group 3 New Sensation Series. Beginning well from box three, the ultra-impressive young pup held off the Garry Edwards trained Double Twist who was very gallant in defeat by half a head on the line. Double Twist has a fantastic chance of bouncing back to the winners list in her semi-final, with the regally bred daughter of Where’s Pedro and super stayer Tifi, a winner of five of her eight race starts, including a best of the night 29.77 seconds at Dapto in January.

Also qualifying into the semi’s from heat two was the Sharron Webster trained Lagoon Eastwood who ran an honest race from the squeeze box in third position as well as Tiggerlong Gunna who was three and three quarters behind third for trainer Margaret Keys.

Heat Three was the beginning of yet another training double, as Llandilo mentor Jeff Crawford put the polish on rails runner Chandon Grove. The Bombastic Shiraz youngster began with the field and used the rails box to perfection scoring by half a length on the line in 30.30 seconds. The 26 kilogram lightweight is a winner of five of her ten starts with a further four minors to her name and looks to be a handy little sprinter in the making. Behind the winner in second place was Trewly Special pup Mellie Jayne, who ran an eye catching race after a slow getaway. Bradley Northfield’s beautifully bred chaser Bralyn Bop Bop rounded up the placing’s in third with the brindle son of Cosmic Rumble and Bralyn Maisie sure to improve for the semi-finals after his first run at the track yesterday.

Crawford’s second winner was from the same litter as his previous victor, with Kentucky Grove saluting in heat four. The black dog, owned by Crawford was having his eighth start in the heats and made it his second race success in what was yet another close win with only a neck between him and second. Interestingly enough, the chaser ran exactly the same time as his litter sister clocking a handy 30.30 seconds, with even their first sectionals of 4.46 seconds identical. Qualifying in second was yet another Bradley Northfield runner, with Bralyn Ryan running a nice race. The black dog has won four races from just twelve starts with a scorching 30.01 second victory at Gosford to his name and should not be forgotten in the semi-finals. The cleverly named Cough Drop also made it through to the second round after navigating his way through the field into third, whilst astute mentor John Carruthers got his charge Nimble Swip through as well, running fourth.

It would not be a group race without the presence of legendary trainer Graeme Bate, who took out the fifth heat with blueblood sprinter Luxurious. By Collision out of the prolific producer Paris St Germain, the promising young bitch triumphed over the Janel Erwin trained Ten Kashkows in a smart 30.36 seconds. Beginning well from box two, the two year old showed plenty of heart racing away to win by one length on the line. The win was the black dynamo’s tenth from 28 starts and with a further eleven placing’s to her name she is definitely one to watch for the future. Jeff Crawford qualified his third runner through to the semi- finals in heat five with Corona Grove a nose behind the second runner, whilst Yallah local Clifford Bell made it two starters in the semi’s for his kennel with Club Fifty Five slipping through in fourth position.

The final heat went the way of the Sharron Webster trained Crosby Stills who managed to overcome an awkward box four draw to triumph by half a head over Miss Kiss in 30.44 seconds. The son of Where’s Pedro was sent to the boxes as favourite and did not let his supporters down, coming back from only a moderate getaway to claim victory. Now with six wins from sixteen starts to his name including two Wentworth Park successes where he clocked 30.36 and 30.22 seconds respectively the black chaser looks a live chance in continuing his handy form in the semi-final.

With such quality and depth the 2013 Nowra Summer Puppy Classic looks an exciting race, with not just the heat winners, but many of the other qualifiers looking to have bright futures ahead of them. The semi-finals will be held on Sunday the 7th April, with all eye’s focused on the track to see who will qualify for the mouth-watering $25,000 to the winner final to be held on Sunday 14th April 2013.

Finn’s Eggstatic For Double Shot At Group 1 Golden Easter Egg

It’s inevitably every greyhound trainers dream to have a runner engaged in a Golden Easter Egg final, therefore you could imagine the elation for Cranebrook duo John and Melinda Finn who will lead out two of their charges in this Saturday nights $250,000 to the winner Group One event.

2013 Group One Paws of Thunder hero Sheikha, part owned by journalists Peter Davis and Gerard Guthrie along with Guthrie’s good friend Anthony Lyons; returned to her brilliant best in last week’s semi final, finishing a gallant second behind in form sprinter Cracker Jack Lil in a flying 29.72.

After somewhat of a lull in form, co-trainer Minnie Finn explained the situation; “She hit her head on the boxes in the Temlee final and it spooked her for a bit that’s why she has been down on form.”

“She went really well last week but tends to get a bit lost in a field and doesn’t know whether to go inside or out but she can win it” said Finn.

Despite coming up with an unfavourable box eight in this week’s final, Finn remains confident that luck will be a crucial element for both her runners.

“I would have preferred the inside but if Sometimes Speedy goes left and gives her some room she can win it. I don’t care which one of my dogs wins as long as one of them does” stated Finn who despite solely owning Winsome Charlee displayed true class in asserting that she will be cheering just as hard for both her chasers.

The beautifully bred daughter of Collision and I’m Exceptional took the recent Paws of Thunder series by storm. Labeled as an outsider from the start, Sheikha snuck under the radar before blowing her rivals away from box two in the $100,000 final, clocking a fast 29.84 and sending the Finn camp into scenes of jubilation behind the boxes.

“People said I nearly hit the roof when she won that race and her owners (Davis, Guthrie and Lyons) were just as excited, it was great to see. It’s what you’re in the sport for to celebrate the big occasions. I think if I win this week I will go through the roof!” a chuckling Finn exclaimed.

Coming up with box five this week, Winsome Charlee has certainly been a surprise packet throughout the series after a solid third in her heat, followed by a stunning come from behind victory in last weeks semi final clocking a sizzling 29.77. Exiting slowly from box one the daughter of Where’s Pedro and Ramblin’ Ruby navigated her way through to the field to score by half a length over Western Australia chaser Hot Irish.

No one was more elated than Finn who could be seen behind the boxes, overwhelmed with excitement. “We just put her in the series to see if she could get some luck and get through. She doesn’t have much early pace but only needs a little bit of room to wind up… she does have a decent motor.”

“The box is a worry but if a mix up can happen and she gets through it could be her night”.

Even with the obvious threat of marvel trainer Jason Mackay’s two superstars; Punch One Out (New Wentworth Park track record holder) and Sometimes Speedy, Finn assures that the all important box draw will play its part in Saturday nights unfolding of events;

“I personally believe the one (Cracker Jack Lil) is the big danger. Box draws are so important in these types of races so I’m expecting her to lead and hopefully we get some luck and can chase her down. I would just like to see a New South Wales trainer win so the trophy stays here”.

John and Melinda Finn are two of the most well known and respected trainers in the history of Australian Greyhound Racing with consistent winners across numerous tracks on a weekly basis. Having two greyhounds make NSW’s most prestigious group 1 final is a fitting reward that reflects the knowledge, skill and effort that no doubt goes into the preparation of their greyhounds.

All eyes will be on Saturday night’s Golden Easter Egg final with intent, to see if the highly successful Finn combination can snare their second Group One victory already for 2013.

Chevy Silverado, Jodie & Michael Manuel – A Magic Maiden Miracle

This Saturday is the night that all Greyhound Racing participants have been waiting for as the top echelon of Australian chasers converge at Wentworth Park for what is New South Wales’ premier night of racing, offering the all glitz and glam of group race glory.

Whilst the highlight of the night will of course be the $250,000 to the winner Group One Golden Easter Egg, there will also be several other spectacular Group Race finals run and won on the night – one of those being the Group Three Magic Maiden.

The 2013 Magic Maiden series has seen some of Australia’s best bred and freakishly fast young pups make their racing debut over the last three weeks and the final certainly looks mouth-watering, with one of the main chances being Hunter Valley chaser Chevy Silverado.

Chevy Silverado could not have been any more impressive in claiming his semi-final in a best of night time last Friday. Beginning brilliantly from box seven, the white and blue brindle powerhouse carved across the field and never looked in any danger, clocking a scintillating 29.69 seconds for the 520 metre trip. The son of Just the Best is owned and trained by Michael Manuel and certainly looks to have untapped potential, with his barnstorming success coming at only his second race appearance.

Michael, and his wife Jodie, train from their property in North Rothbury, a small town in the Hunter Valley among the wineries. Chevy Silverado is certainly a special member of the Manuel kennel, being out their former top race bitch Chevy Miss.

Chevy Miss was a sensational racer winning fifteen races with a further eleven placing’s to her name. Among her credentials was a flying 34.85 second track record at Unibet Gardens over the 600 metre trip and a nippy personal best of 30.26 seconds at Wentworth Park. Chevy Miss was also a finalist in the Dapto Puppy Classic, and the 600 metre Rookie Rebel held at The Meadows, and whilst she was luckless in both group finals, she still had her share of race triumphs and has since made even more of an impression with her career in the breeding barn also being a successful one.

Chevy Miss has thrown some handy pups from her litters by Where’s Pedro and Big Daddy Cool, however it has been her third litter to Just The Best that have well and truly hit the track in full flight. The headliner of this litter is undoubtedly Chevy Silverado, however litter brother Chevy Spark also has the potential and ability to turn into a fantastic little money spinner for the dedicated duo.

With Michael and Jodie’s outstanding success with Chevy Miss and her progeny, it is scary to think that all this almost never happened. Chevy Miss, or “Miracle” as she is known to the Manuel’s; was purchased from astute mentor John Lawson. Lawson who whelped the litter, found the pint sized bitch, when she was only a few days old, cold as ice inside the whelping box. Whilst many may have assumed the tiny pup had died Lawson heard a whimper and managed to save the pup from a grim demise.

When the litter was being sold, the Manuel’s purchased a white and red brindle dog, who would later race under the name Chevy Man. However on the way home, Jodie recalls they had a change of heart, and went back to make a second purchase, “When we got back there Johnny thought we had changed our minds and didn’t want “Butch” (Chevy Man) but we said yes we want him, but we want “Miracle” (Chevy Miss) as well”.

This change of heart purchase would turn out to be one of the best decisions the Manuel’s made in their involvement in Greyhound Racing, with Chevy Silverado exiting box eight in the $25,000 to the winner final on Saturday night. Whilst he appears to be a mad railer, the promising pup proved he can handle the outside draw last week, and should he step away cleanly, he looks a live chance of taking home the winners cheque.

Chevy Silverado’s biggest threats look to be Jason Mackay’s unbeaten charge Zipping Simba, who ran a fast 29.92 in his semi-final last week; Mark Azzopardi’s Vinny Kreuger; and the Chris Artelo’s trained Black Rip. All three were semi winners last week and will be looking to snare victory. However with a few slow beginners on his inside, the race may well be set up for Chevy Silverado, who has been a flawless beginner at his first two outings.

What makes the Manuel’s so special is the patience and perseverance they have shown with their team and the unconditional love they share for both their greyhounds and the industry. Win, lose or draw on Saturday night, Michael and Jodie have accomplished something that many small trainers can only dream of.

After racing the mother and whelping, rearing, breaking-in and training the litter all by themselves, it would certainly be the icing on the cake and the pinnacle of their training career’s if Chevy Silverado can achieve the feat and take home the prize.

West On Emily & Emily Fraser – 2 Young Ones To Watch

If there is one thing Australian Greyhound Racing needs for the future, it is young people who are dedicated to the industry. It is a rare but valuable find to meet a young greyhound enthusiast at many of our racetracks – precisely why they should be celebrated for their achievements within the industry.

Emily Fraser is one such individual whose passion and love for greyhounds shines through. The 24 year old has handled and worked for some of Australia’s premier trainers; however it is some of her efforts closer to home that mean the most.

Fraser has been involved with greyhounds since an early age, and was the leading handler for Don McMillian, who trained the star race bitch turned prolific producer, Bralyn Maisie. Bralyn Maisie was a top class city bitch winning 24 of her 44 starts with a phenomenal 12 victories at Wentworth Park including the Group three Ladies Bracelet final. Handled by a young Fraser, the budding enthusiast learnt all about what is involved with training and handling a successful dog.

When McMillan retired, Emily relocated to Western Australia where she worked with champion trainer Linda Britton for two years in her kennels. After gaining experience in the West, including handling former super stayer Western Land when he won the Group One Galaxy, the young enthusiast took some time out away from the action and hard work that racing involves.

Whilst Fraser had no intention at the time of returning to the sport, Emily admits that she, “Just loves them so much”, and as a result was drawn back into the industry, along with the help of a 25 kilogram bitch called West on Emily.

Since being back, Emily has teamed up with her father, Anthony Fraser and the dynamic duo have hit a purple patch with kennel star West on Emily, who has certainly turned into handy little chaser for the father daughter combo. Beginning her career at Bathurst, the daughter of El Galo showed potential from the start, winning on debut in a handy 17.89 seconds for the 307 metre trip. After two seconds at Bathurst and Unibet Gardens and another unlucky fourth at Bathurst, the pint sized performer has faced the starter on four occasions for four very impressive victories. Her successful streak started at Lithgow where she strung together two impressive wins in best of the day times clocking 24.82 seconds and 24.67 seconds respectively for the 414 metre trip. The blue sprinter has since gone on to claim a 450 metre win at Bathurst before the highlight of her short career came on Saturday night when West On Emily claimed the last at Richmond, running 23.10 seconds over 400 metres at what was a very gutsy and determined chasing effort.

With the impressive record of five wins and two placing’s from just eight starts, the youngster’s talent is still untapped, with Anthony now freshening her up before resuming at the Gardens next month where she should give the Hunter Valley speedsters a scare.

Anthony currently has five greyhounds in work; including West on Emily’s litter brother West on Elle with both the littermates turning into fantastic money spinners for the Wallerawang mentor. Also in the pipeline is a half-brother to the brilliant chaser Prince Diablo, who will hopefully possess some of the talent of his champion sibling.

Anthony, who has been training greyhounds for fifteen year has certainly passed on some of his passion to his aspiring daughter, who plans on getting her trainers license this year. Young Emily possesses all the makings of a great trainer and is a valuable asset to the industry. With her father and the support of many industry moguls by her side the big races are sure to be attached to her name in the future.

The Girls Are Set To Bounce Back Again In The Golden Easter Egg

This year marks the 21st running of the Golden Easter Egg on loam at Wentworth Park. It is also the 24th running of the event overall.

This is arguably one of the better Easter Egg final fields of recent times. Yes, it’s missing the likes of Jagger Swagger, Renegade Chief, Spud Regis, El Brooklyn, Billy The Sid, Imry Bale, and Peter Rocket, but between them the eight finalists have been collectively unplaced at just five of their last 40 starts. Sheikha, with two unplaced runs from her last five outings, is the ‘worst’. Yet Sheikha is also the winner of the Paws of Thunder.

With a final field of six females and only two males, Grigorieva Bale and General Destini -both of whom happen to represent Victoria- it looks as though the male dominance in the Egg is set to be broken, at least for 2013.

In the 20 Egg finals run on loam, males have registered 14 victories. The only females to snare the race on loam have been Mancunian Girlin 1994, the great Tenthill Doll (1996), Queensland star Bogie Leigh (2004), Paua To Burn (2005), Edie Beauchamp (2006), and Dana Beatrice (2009).

Punch One Out certainly did that, obliterating the track record with her 29.27 effort, slicing Noble Pedro’s previous mark by a whopping 16/100ths for trainer Jason Mackay.

For the first time an Egg final has two finalists who have winning sequences of five or more: Sometimes Speedy, with victories at her last eight starts, and Cracker Jack Lil with wins at her past seven.

The only greyhound to have ever contested an Egg final with a winning sequence as better than either of these was Brett Lee. Back in 2001 Brett Lee went into the final having scored at his previous 11 starts. From box eight he cruised to victory to make it 12 on end and take his prize money to an astounding $344,000 in a mere 29 starts, an incredible $11,862 per start. He had scored 25 wins and three seconds and was unbeaten in three starts at Wentworth Park.

Sometimes Speedy, with five starts for five wins at Wentworth Park for trainer Jason Mackay, will be attempting to the emulate the feat of the brilliant Victorian sprinter Slater, who annexed the 2007 Egg, and make it six starts for six wins at Wentworth Park in the process.

Slater became the first greyhound to take an undefeated Wentworth Park record of three or more wins into the final (in Slater’s case it was five out of five) and emerge victorious, scoring by five and a half lengths.

Hot Irish becomes the first dual finalist since High Earner in 2010 and 2011. On the loam surface, Star Title (second in 1993 and fifth in 1994), Malawi Law (won in 1995 and eighth in 1996), Tenthill Doll (won in 1996 and sixth in 1997), Golden Milo (sixth in 1998 and seventh in 1999), and High Earner (eighth in 2010 and sixth in 2011) are the only five dual finalists.

The West Australian, only the second from that state to compete in the event (the first being Joanne Monelli in 2009), Hot Irish will be easily the most experienced runner, having contested 72 races and scored an impressive 39 victories.

Almost unique among the major Goup sprint races, the box draw for the Egg doesn’t seem to make that much of a difference. Of the 20 run on loam, box one has produced three winners; box two, two; box three, two; box four, three; box five, two; box six, two; box seven, two wins; and box eight leads the way with four wins.

Basically, if your fancy draws well or seemingly poorly, it makes little difference. Indeed, the last six winners have exited six different alleys.

Punch One Out Sets New Wentworth Park Track Record

Following an outstanding night of racing at Wentworth Park, on Saturday night (March 23), the box draws for the Group 1 Macro Meats Golden Easter Egg (520m), Group 1 Hotham Body Repairs Association Cup (720m) and Group 3 Ambrosoli (520m Golden Easter Egg Consolation) were conducted.

On a night which saw some sensational results and honours shared between New South Wales and Victorian runners, the meeting highlight was the obliteration of the 520m track record by Punch One Out.

The victory in the final semi-final, stunned the crowd with 0.16 seconds being taken off the previous record held by Noble Pedro.

Trainers Jason Mackay said following the draw that boxes haven fallen ideally for both runners, which should make next week an exciting battle.

Yet to claim the Golden Easter Egg title, Mackay said is was great that owners of both runners would now be able to get to the track and enjoy the moment.

“It has taken five starts for Punch One Out to get a handle on the start at Wenty, but everythign fell into place,” Mackay said.

“Track was in great order, and I have always know she is capable of those times, but at just 25months of age, I still think there is more to come,” Mackay added.

With five Group Race finals now drawn for this coming Saturday’s feature program, Easter Saturday night is bound to see more exceptional racing moments.

The box draw for the Group 1 Macro Meats Golden Easter Egg:

Macro Meats New Golden Easter Egg Final Box Draw

$250,000 – $62,500 – $31,250
Box 1 – Cracker Jack Lil – Peter Hunt
Box 2 – General Destini – Emilio Rinaldi
Box 3 – Punch One Out – Jason Mackay
Box 4 – Grigorieva Bale – Andrea Dailly
Box 5 – Winsome Charlee – John Finn
Box 6 – Hot Irish – Steven Clarke
Box 7 – Sometimes Speedy – Jason Mackay
Box 8 – Sheikha – John Finn
1st Res – Spud Regis – Andrea Dailly
2nd Res – Allen Dion – Andrea Dailly

The box draw for the Group 1 Hotham Body Repairs Association Cup is as follows:

Hotham Body Repairs Association Cup Box Draw

$75,000 – $18,750 – $9,375
Box 1 – Fancy Liza – Christoped Spratt
Box 2 – Destini Fireball – Emilio Rinaldi
Box 3 – Miss Nicole – Charles Galea
Box 4 – Bell Haven – Edward Medhurst
Box 5 – Back Page Lead – Steven White
Box 6 – Gully Miss – Jacob Burke
Box 7 – Robert Andrew – Steven White
Box 8 – Hotwire – Graeme Barnett
1st Res – Irma Bale – Graeme Bate
2nd Res – Jilly’s Army – David Righetti

The box draw for the Group 3 Ambrosoli is as follows:

The Ambrosoli Box Draw

$25,000 – $6,250 – $3,125
Box 1 – Renegade Chief – Kel Greenough
Box 2 – Rob Pines – Edward Medhurst
Box 3 – El Caballo – Darren McDonald
Box 4 – Allen Dion – Andrea Dailly
Box 5 – Amadeus Strikes – Steven White
Box 6 – Fully Advanced – Graeme Bate
Box 7 – Spud Regis – Andrea Dailly
Box 8 – Peter Rocket – Keith Hellmuth
1st Res – Garrick Bale – Andrea Dailly
2nd Res – Boris Fields – Jason Thompson

2013 Golden Easter Egg Semi Finals Preview, Tips & Betting

Well we managed to go quite well in the heats last week with a few winners and most of our top selections making it through. It’s a lot harder here with 4 heats and 32 quality chasers all vying for a spot in the $250,000 final next week. Only the first two from each heat advance.

We saw some flying times last week and the track was far too fast. We are going to ignore the times and instead focus on the dogs ability. We are going to do our best to narrow it down to the top 4 in each race.

Sportingbet have supplied us with there overall fixed price market. If you’ve been watching the action and fancy something why not back it pre post with one of our corporate sponsors – Luxbet, Centrebet, Sportsbet, Iasbet or Sportingbet; who will all offer fixed price betting on the semi finals and overall betting on the 2013 Golden Easter Egg Winner.

It’s sure to be an action packed night with heats of the stayers Association Cup to be also run and won.

2013 Golden Easter Egg Semi Final 1 Race 5. 8.50 pm Nsw time

Box 1 – Sheikha : Fantastic bitch, who Managed to win a Group 1 at her home track. Has been racing down on form but managed to recapture her best last week when narrowly beaten by Mythical Eagle. From the red she’s a huge chance to make the final. Golden Easter Egg Betting $16

Box 2 – Jagger Swagger : Flying machine racing in sensational form and looks set to easily make the top 2 in this. He will get a great run with wide runner Princess Black on his outside. Golden Easter Egg Betting $7

Box 3 – Princess Black : highly talented young bitch, by bread and butter sire Give me Five. Impossible to knock her form and its near impossible to back against her here. If she begins, and doesn’t get as wide as she did last week, expect her and Jagger Swagger to fight tooth and nail to the line. Golden Easter Egg Betting $10

Box 4 – Allen Dion : Great run last week when he flew out but he looks tested here on the clock. Golden Easter Egg Betting $61

Box 5 – Cracker Jack Lil : Speedy little bitch who gave her backers a great site last week. Just keeps winning, but may find it tough against the big guns in this. Golden Easter Egg Betting $61

Box 6 – Whispering Wind : Scratched.

Box 7 – Magic Billions : Quality animal who chased his heart out last week when second to Peter Rocket. Will find it extremely tough from out here tonight. Golden Easter Egg Betting $61

Box 8 – Wooden Ball : Grand old campaigner who tries his heart out, but certainly not from out wide here tonight. Golden Easter Egg Betting $251

1st Res (Into box 6) – Rob Pines : Another grand old dog racing well. But probably not here against the 3 inside big guns. Golden Easter Egg Betting $81

Summary : Looks a match race between the 3 inside dogs. Expect Princess Black to lead and course wide opening up the run for Jagger Swagger and Sheikha.

Tips : 1st – Princess Black, 2nd – Jagger Swagger, 3rd – Sheikha, 4th – Allen Dion.

2013 Golden Easter Egg Semi Final 2 Race 6. 9.07 pm Nsw Time

Box 1 – Stetson Donna : Won her heat from box 1 at massive odds, but went no where near the time of the others. Needs all the luck here. Golden Easter Egg Betting $61

Box 2 – Boris Fields : Went like a rocket here last week and jumped much better than usual. Will be chasing Sometimes Speedy from the get go and may or may not get her. Massive chance and top 2 selection. Golden Easter Egg Betting $9.50

Box 3 – Sometimes Speedy : One of the most improved dogs in the country. Is always speedy at the moment, and should be leading from the get go here. Went a little slower than her main rival last start but will be there all the way. Golden Easter Egg Betting $8

Box 4 – El Caballo : Fast honest chaser, but looks tested here having to come from behind. Golden Easter Egg Betting $126

Box 5 – Magnum Blast : Fast dog that will need plenty of luck to topple the top two in this. Golden Easter Egg Betting $81

Box 6 – Renegade Chief : One of the country’s best, but will find it tough from out here against the top 2. Will need them to jam up to win this, but very capable of winning. Golden Easter Egg Betting $16

Box 7 – General Destini : One of Victoria’s best dogs who always seems to find one or two better in the big races. Honest as the day is long and a chance with plenty of luck. Golden Easter Egg Betting $81

Box 8 – Gradence : Proved me wrong last week when he flew home for 3rd; but faces a tougher ask again tonight. Golden Easter Egg Betting $126

Summary : Another heat that appears a match race. Boris Fields and Sometimes Speedy look set to fight this one out in a battle royal to the line.

Tips : 1st – Sometimes Speedy, 2nd – Boris Fields, 3rd – Renegade Chief, 4th – General Destini.

2013 Golden Easter Egg Semi Final 3 Race 7 9.27pm Nsw time

Box 1 – Winsome Charlee : Seriously talented bitch with a huge finish. May be giving away too much start here though. Golden Easter Egg Betting $26

Box 2 – Hot Irish : Superstar chaser in fantastic form who won’t give up the chase here. Will be chasing Fully Advanced from the get go, but can go quicker than last week and certainly a threat. If Fully advance makes a mistake watch out! Golden Easter Egg Betting $21

Box 3 – Fully Advanced : Quickest qualifier who flew the lids and nearly broke the track record last week. If he repeats that run, he just wins. Golden Easter Egg Betting $8.50

Box 4 – Dinkum : Fast dog who begins to steadily to make up the ground against this lot. Can run run the time, but not against this opposition. Golden Easter Egg Betting $61

Box 5 – Joshua : Bates second runner who went super last start, flying the lids and only just getting pipped. Not without a chance here. Golden Easter Egg Betting $14

Box 6 – Mythical Eagle : Extraordinary old dog who just keeps going. Is heading towards 5 years of age and is in the best form of his career. The box won’t worry him but he may struggle to lead these. Golden Easter Egg Betting $17

Box 7 – Amadeus Strikes : local hope who looks tested against this lot. Golden Easter Egg Betting $201

Box 8 – Billy The Sid : Quality animal racing below his best. May be nearing his best but will have to produce a career best performance to win this. Golden Easter Egg Betting $51

Summary : Another 2 dog race with Fully Advanced and Hot Irish the stand outs here. Expect Fully Advanced to lead and Hot Irish to do the chasing.

Tips : 1st – Fully Advanced, 2nd – Hot Irish, 3rd – Joshua, 4th – Mythical Eagle.

2013 Golden Easter Egg Semi Final 4 Race 8. 9.50 pm Nsw time

Box 1 – Garrick Bale : Talented animal, drawn well but your on your own in this. Golden Easter Egg Betting $61

Box 2 – Grigorieva Bale : Very fast animal who can match it with the best with luck. Could surprise in this. Golden Easter Egg Betting $41

Box 3 – Spud Regis : Did all he could possibly do last week when winning really well. Went a couple of lengths slower than the quickest heat, but don’t let that worry you. Massive chance. Golden Easter Egg Betting $8.50

Box 4 – Bubba’s Dream : Remarkable bitch who went well here last week from the red. Won’t get any favours this week and will need plenty of luck. Golden Easter Egg Betting $41

Box 5 – Punch One Out : She had to chase the quickest qualifier last week in near record time. Was still coming at the end and may have got closer if she picked the correct run. Super fast bitch well drawn and looks a huge chance here. Golden Easter Egg Betting $8

Box 6 – Nitro Cee : Began slowly last week before hitting her straps. Can’t run the time of the others and looks tested. Golden Easter Egg Betting $81

Box 7 – Peter Rocket : Went tremendous here last start after traveling up on the day and having his first look at the track. Very few dogs could do that and expect him to improve on the run; if he does watch out – Come on boy! Golden Easter Egg Betting $21

Box 8 – Imry Bale : Will do it very tough out here and will need his best jump and luck in this. Golden Easter Egg Betting $81

Summary : Extremely tough heat with plenty of winning chances. My two top picks will have to fight it out here, Peter Rocket and Punch one Out, Spud Regis will also be there. If Punch One Out heads off Peter Rocket early she can,and will win.

Tips : 1st – Punch One Out, 2nd – Spud Regis, 3rd – Peter Rocket, 4th – Grigorieva Bale.

Best of Luck

$$ Another Day Another Dollar $$

Dave Irwin’s Scissor Queen Snares Maitland Gold Collar Final

It takes a committed trainer to drive over eight hours each week to race a greyhound- but this is exactly what Maudsland mentor Dave Irwin has done for the past three Thursday’s as he has made the lengthy trip from Queensland to Maitland Showground. This week all the kilometres travelled certainly paid off with his superstar bitch Scissor Queen victorious in the $4,000 to the winner Maitland Gold Collar Final against a red hot field that forced the raging favourite to dig deep to claim the feature.

Despite pinging the lids from the cherry, the red fawn dynamo was unable to hold the lead, as first section record holder Swift Callah crossed early to take up the top spot. Running close behind the leader in second, the petite chaser managed to hold the inside when trouble struck and railed through for an emphatic victory in a slick 22.45 seconds.

Irwin, who trains by the motto of taking his dogs only to where they are suited has certainly hit the nail on the head with the daughter of Knocka Norris and Surf Queen who has definitely built up a strong affiliation with the Maitland track; with Thursdays success her fourth from as many starts at the showground.

The Gold Collar Final was Scissor Queens 17th race win from just twenty five race starts, and with a further three placings to her name she has been a model of consistency for her first-time owners; a group of three work mates all from the Sunshine State. Prior to Scissor Queens trio of successful runs at Maitland over recent weeks, the bitch had been successful in eleven of her twelve prior starts – with the twelfth run a last at Lismore where she was found to be suffering from an injured hip and shoulder.

Since returning from injury Scissor Queen has not put a paw wrong recording a breathtaking 22.25 seconds win at Maitland her first run back with last week’s heat win of 22.38 seconds proving that she had certainly bounced back to her brilliant best. Among her victories is the 2012 Grafton Cup where she defeated Marbo Man, and a near record 27.15 second win at the same track over the 480 metre trip.

Two lengths behind Scissor Queen in second place was the ever consistent Diddy Strike who ran yet another honest race for industry good guy Colin Kneeshaw. Kneeshaw who breeds all of his own greyhounds can be proud of his racers performance, showing the short course specialists that he too is a force to be reckoned with. Diddy Strike has won twenty three races from seventy four starts with yet another twenty minors to his name including nine wins and nine placing’s at Maitland with a personal best of 22.49 seconds over the 400 metres. The black son of Elite State may be turning four years of age soon but is certainly racing in great form and should be claiming another victory before too long.

Also catching the eyes of spectators on Thursday evening were talented sprinters Knocka’s Return and Black Magic Opal who were both dominant in their respective races.

Bringelly trainer Mark Willcox made the journey up to Maitland with brilliant pup Knocka’s Return who could not have been any more impressive at his track debut. Beginning well from box four the Red Brindle and White dog showed plenty of early pace to take the lead before the turn out of the back straight and powered to the line to win by three quarters of a length over Queenslander Rozelle Flash, who ran a very exciting second. Recording a scorching 25.05 seconds for the 450 metre trip, the two year old looks a definite contender for the Group Two Maitland Gold Cup .Now holding the glistening record of eight wins from just nine race starts, he looks a star in the making with the next few weeks sure to be the acid test for the chaser.

Another pup who will be looking to contest The Gold Cup Series is Leslie Hudson’s exhilarating youngster Black Magic Opal. The black dog does not turn two until May but has already proven his abilities on the racetrack recording nine very exciting wins and three seconds from a mere twelve starts. The son of Magic Sprite and Hudson’s own handy racer Awesome Opal is all speed and possesses both an excellent turn of foot from box rise as well as a big motor that allows him to put in a powerful finish. Thursday’s win kept his flawless Maitland record intact, where he now boasts four wins from four starts, with both 450 metre victories recorded in blistering times of 25.04 seconds and 25.17 seconds respectively.

The heats for the prestigious Group Two Maitland Gold Cup will be held on the 4th of April 2013, and it is sure to attract some very enthralling sprinters to the Hunter Valley. All eyes will be on Maitland over the next few weeks as trainers bring their contenders to Maitland for a look at the track, with chasers such as Knocka’s Return and Black Magic Opal already looking standouts for the series.

Clay Mullens Is Greyhound Racings Newest Sensation

22 year old Londonderry trainer Clay Mullens is rapidly becoming a formidable force in Greyhound Racing after just two years as a licensed trainer. Mullen’s first taste of group racing success may come earlier than expected when three of his leading charges tackle the Group Three New Sensation semi finals this Friday night at Wentworth Park.

Seemingly Mullens best chance Fast Archer, recorded best of the night figures last week saluting from box four and clocked a sizzling 29.87 in notching up his fourth consecutive win. The rising star by Collision out of Clay Model certainly has his young trainer exited.

“I wasn’t really surprised with how good he went because he has run fast times before. I expect him to go just as well this week and I reckon he can improve on that time as well” said Mullens.

Coming up with box eight for the first time in his career in this week’s semi final does come with some minor concerns, as Mullens explains the dogs racing style.

“He loves the inside so box eight will be interesting. He has good early speed so ill expect him to go well, his just a mad crasher, the whole litter is the same”.

Despite the wide draw, Fast Archer handled the seven alley beautifully just two weeks ago, clocking a respectable 30.04 around the Glebe circuit. The definite two turn specialist also has a 29.82 personal best over the 520m at Dapto and will no doubt be stating his claims to book a finals berth for next Saturday night.

Mullens second chance of the night will come from litter sister Camouflage Model. The 24kg lightweight will also exit from box eight and does possess similar racing traits.

“She likes the inside too so eight is not ideal but that’s just how it is. I was happy with how she went last week from box six and like her brother there is definitely some room for improvement” Mullens said optimistically.

Spud Gun will step out in the last semi final of the night from box two, after a solid third performance last week behind current boom chaser Rigs who used a rails run to perfection in 30.46. Mullen’s was elated with the run and will expect significant improvement this week.

“That was his first 500 in four months so I was stoked with how he went. It was also his first time out of the boxes at Wentworth Park so I’m really happy he drew the inside as he likes to crash to the rails”.

With three talented greyhounds engaged, it wouldn’t surprise anyone to see the young trainer book multiple spots in next weeks $25,000 to the winner event, a pay check certainly longed by many newcomers to the sport.

Mullen comes from a thoroughbred dominated family with his mother and father both prosperous horse racing owners. Their most prestigious moment in racing occurred in 2008 when the horse they part owned, Sebring, claimed the Group One Golden Slipper for trainer Gai Waterhouse. With such a thriving start to his short career in greyhounds, Group One glory is bound to be bestowed upon the Mullens family once again.

Despite being surrounded by thoroughbred enthusiasts, Mullens always had a passion for Greyhound Racing he was keen to pursue. “I do enjoy horse racing but financially I couldn’t afford to buy one so greyhounds were a better option. I bought John Finn’s old place and now have my own rearing and spelling establishment which keeps me busy”.

Mullens began his career by purchasing and racing a bitch, Clay Model, who was greatly underestimated on the track and didn’t get a true chance to showcase her potential.

“She was really quick but her form didn’t show that. She had a couple of bad falls so that put her off racing a bit but she did have talent” explained Mullens.

Once Mullens decided to breed his first litter, there were some doubters who said the combination between Clay Model and Collision would not be a successful one. Having racked up 16 wins and over $30,000 in prize money so far; Mullens has certainly silenced his critics.

“I did have a few people say I was mad for breeding with her because she didn’t have good form on paper. It was my decision and I’m glad I made it cause I’ve got some handy ones” said Mullen’s exuding a sense of pride and achievement.

Clay Model currently has a six month old litter to El Grand Senor, with plenty of keen interest which will no doubt carry over to when they hit the race track.

By day Mullens runs a car dealership in Sydney whilst his two loyal workers Garry and Luke Adams hold down his Londonderry fort before operations go into overdrive of a night looking after pups and race dogs.

It is inevitable that Mullens name will be attached to some of our great races in the near future and he is a humble man who possess all the right attributes that other young trainers can certainly look up to.

New Sensation Semi Finals Won’t Disappoint

Once the semi-finals of the Magic Maiden are run and won on Friday night, the group racing spotlight will shine upon round two of the inaugural New Sensation series. The New Sensation Series carries with it a group three status and a terrific winner’s cheque of $25,000 which has attracted some of Australia’s most promising young pups.

With strict rules that competing canines must be under 27 months of age and must have won no more than ten wins from no more than twenty track appearances, this series certainly diversifies the Easter Egg carnival and gives the future stars of the track the chance to be victorious when they otherwise may have been out of their depth with the big guns in the Group One Golden Easter Egg.

Last Friday night eight impressive heats were held, with some standout athletes showcasing themselves as potential superstars.
Keinbah trainer Ryan Tredway looks to have unearthed himself a gem in talented sprinter Rigs who will line up in the first of four semi-finals from box seven. Beginning only moderately from the squeeze box in his heat, the red fawn son of Pure Octane showed plenty of field sense, navigating his way through the pack to score a very dominant win by an impressive five and a half lengths on the line. At what is a remarkable achievement, Tredway bred the powerful chaser himself from his talented race bitch Really Satisfies, with his quest in the breeding barn definitely paying off, as Rigs has now won six races after just eight starts on the racetrack. Rigs is certainly among the best pups of his age which was illustrated when the two year old made the final of the 2013 National Derby.

Whilst luckless in the final coming fourth to Golden Easter Egg hopeful Jagger Swagger, the dog certainly stamped himself as one to follow, running very slick times throughout the series at Unibet Gardens including a scintillating 29.57 victory from box eight. Whilst his class is clear, he does face some talented opposition in his semi-final with Trevor Hagneys flying 30.03 heat winner Johnny Fire exiting box five, and the ‘first section specialist’ Helena Izmir boxed on his direct outside in eight. Helena Izmir has won four at the track with a sizzling 29.76 personal best to her name, and with her perfect box manners she should make the race a contest for whoever can keep up with her in the run to the first turn.

The fastest Heat winner from last week was the aptly named Fast Archer who was far too strong for his opposition when stopping the clock in a red hot 29.87 seconds. The son of Collision looks a star in the making and has definitely developed an affiliation with the Ultimo circuit, saluting in three of four attempts over the tracks gruelling 520 metre distance. Trained by Clay Mullens, the black chaser does prefer to be drawn on the inside, however with a nippy 30.04 second success at Wentworth Park from box seven to his name; he should be able to handle the wide alley on Friday night and only needs to get away with the pack to feature in the finish.

Fast Archer looks the standout performer in his semi-final, with his main danger appearing to be the 30.23 heat winner Super Colossal drawn inside him in box seven. Super Colossal is a winner of four races from six starts, with his speedy win last Friday his debut at Wentworth Park after previously racing in Victoria.

Mullens also has a qualifier in the third semi-final, with Fast Archer’s litter sister Camouflage Model lining up from box eight. The pint size performer that Tips the scales at just over 24 kilograms ran an honest third behind Super Colossal in their heat however she does come up against some fast types with last week’s winners Sanjuan Slim and Charmed Assassin looking the likely pair to fight out the finish.

Sanjuan Slim kept his flawless Wentworth Park form intact, claiming his second victory from as many starts at headquarters in a swift 30.19 seconds. The Bit Chilli youngster does not turn two until June but has untapped potential winning four of his six career starts including a scorching 29.83 seconds at Unibet Gardens, with box three ideal for the chaser who has a liking for the rails.

The Jane Carruthers trained Charmed Assassin should also run a honest race with his nippy 29.97 heat triumph certainly capturing the attention of racegoers on Friday with the six box seemingly his biggest obstacle his semi-final this week. Another strong player in the third semi that should not be forgotten is Kristy Sultana’s charge Sydenham Pearl who has the ability to bounce back to the winners list after two unlucky runs at Wentworth Park over the past two weeks. The Just the Best pup has won four from seven and has the ability to run quick times; however she will need to ping the lids with the rest of the field after her naughty habit of missing the kick of late.

Regally bred chaser Lachlan Loaded looks the goods in the fourth and final heat, with the son of Dyna Lachlan and the dependable little chaser Dolphin Call showing industry participants what he is capable of when blistering around the circuit in a fast 29.98 seconds in his heat. A winner of five races from twenty starts, he is proving to be very reliable with the handy record enhanced by a further eight placing’s to his name. Jason Mackay’s One Inch Punch will also be looking to make it into next week’s final for his Richmond Vale mentor who also has his ‘golden girls’ Sometimes Speedy, and Punch One Out engaged in Saturday’s Golden Easter Egg Semi-finals. The son of Knocka Norris has won four races, and has had five starts at Wentworth Park for a handy win in 30.35 seconds.

One Inch Punch should improve from last week when he struck trouble after a slow start before showing plenty of determination to regain momentum and finish strongly in second place. The other main chances in heat four look to be litter brothers Dark Assassin and Tricky Business. The sons of National Futurity winner Daydream both have massive motors and are both more than capable of taking out the race. Dark Assassin is trained by Anthony Azzopardi and is a winner of seven from fourteen including a quick 30.02 at Wentworth Park, whilst Tricky Business for trainer Kristy Sultana is a winner of four from six and was a heat winner last week in a brilliant 30.14 seconds.

All four semi-finals look to be mouth-watering appetisers for Saturday’s main course – the semis of the Golden Easter Egg. Every dog in this series is capable of winning with boundless amounts of talent ready to be showcased when the lids fly open this Friday.

Magic Maiden Series Unveils The Sports Next Superstars

As the pursuit of group racing glory continues this week, punters and spectators alike will be treated to yet another tantalizing weekend at Wentworth Park. The action starts on Friday with the semi-finals of both the Group Three New Sensation and The Group Three Magic Maiden series.

Both semi-final series contain some sensational young sprinters and provide the perfect appetizer for Saturday night- when the track will again light up for the semi-finals of the Group One Golden Easter Egg as well as the heats of The Association Cup- which will see some of Australia’s best stayers converge on Sydney for their own slice of the group racing action.

The first of the semi’s to kick off on Friday will be the $25,000 to the winner Magic Maiden Series, with four fantastic fields assembling for what is sure to be a thrilling competition. Impressive heat winner Good Odds Demon looks a live chance in the first semi-final after his gutsy chasing effort in claiming his heat victory. Beginning only moderately from box two, he was crossed early and had to dig deep before finding the lead and eventually stretching out to win by two and a half lengths on the line. The well bred son of Collision and handy race bitch Punk Angel was having his first start on Sunday with his slick victory in 30.24 seconds indicating that he may have a bright future on the racetrack for his astute mentor Frank Hurst.

Fellow heat winner Ibrox Digger, out of star stayer Laura’s Legacy also showed some talent on Sunday and should be considered after his 30.22 heat success, whilst Big Daddy Cool youngster Cloud Ten will also be in contention after his 30.54 effort when taking out his heat. One that may slip under the radar and should definitely not be overlooked is flying Jilliby pup Mike Marlow who came in third to Ibrox Digger on Sunday. Whilst he was safely held by four and a half lengths on the line, the son of Lochinvar Marlow certainly has a massive motor recording a scorching 29.78 in a performance trial at Gosford earlier this month. Out of the fantastic racer Fascinate Marina, Mike Marlow was bred to be speedy and punters should not rule him out of this week’s semi-final.

Heat Two will see heat winners Palucka, Tollo and Zipping Simba vie for their spots in the final. Palucka is yet another one of Lochinvar Marlow’s handy offspring who has made it through to the semi’s, with the Kristy Sultana trained speedster a dominant all the way victor in his heat. Running a sizzling 30.19 seconds the black dog was triumphant at start four for his Londonderry trainer, and with a nippy first section of 5.49 seconds, he should be racing up with the leaders, if he repeats last week’s flawless beginning.

Looking to bring him undone will be Zipping Simba- a member of the astute Jason Mackay kennel who won his heat last week in 30.46 seconds. Whilst his victory may not have been as fast as Palucka’s performance, it was just as impressive as he overcame all sorts of trouble to finish over the top of his rivals. The son of champion Mantra Lad certainly has the bloodlines to be quick on the track, being out of prolific producer Or Catra, and with his heat success being his only race start, he will certainly improve for the semi-finals this week. Mark Bells Tollo also lines up in Semi two after a heat victory on Sunday and whilst his time was only 30.58 seconds, he has recorded a handy performance trial at Richmond clocking 30.95 seconds for the 535 metre trip.

Lochinvar Brando looks the standout in semi-final three with the Robert Smith trained dynamo scoring an emphatic victory at headquarters on Sunday when taking out his heat. Continuing the trend of being well bred, the son of Where’s Pedro and Smart Betsy could not have been more exciting when winning by two lengths in a nippy 30.19 seconds. Lochinvar Brando was having his fifth start on Sunday, and after running two placing’s in prior starts he was able to salute with his experience certainly being an advantage.

Also in contention from the cherry in semi-final three is the Doreen Drynan prepared Doo Wop Hooligan who was a winner in a moderate 30.59 seconds on Sunday. After a slow getaway, the black daughter of Premier Fantasy and Wentworth Park Specialist Eluthra had to work extremely hard, posted wide the entire trip and showed plenty of tenacity in running down early leaders Got the Life and Dither.

David Pringle’s heat winner Travelling Joe is also in with a chance and is well boxed in the two alley after a 30.46 triumph. Those looking for value in heat three should also be mindful of the Brian Mckivat trained Clonakilty Man who was a luckless second to Palucka in his heat. The blue dog was never out of trouble and did a fantastic job in running second for his Marulan mentor with a race victory not too far away based on his determined effort.

The fourth and final heat will be the most anticipated with another of Jason Mackay’s starters in the series, Tricky Jade, the fastest of the heat winners last week. Posting a sizzling first section split of 5.48 seconds the Bit Chilli Youngster was far too strong for her opposition, clearing away to win by an ultra-impressive ten and a half lengths in a scintillating 29.86 seconds. Out of a former National Futurity finalist in Navigator Miss, the black sprinter was having just her first race start after two impressive performance trials at Unibet Gardens and Wentworth Park.

Whilst Mackay’s charge looks the favourite she will have some tough opposition in heat winner Black Rip who took out his heat in 30.51 seconds and Jane Curruthers Clockwise who was shunted back in her heat after leading and did a brilliant job when coming back along the rails to qualify in second. By Magic Sprite out of the impressive chaser Elizabeth Royal, the powerhouse has clocked some fast times in performance trials, most notably a flying 29.88 seconds at Gosford in February. The well-bred bitch is certainly in with a big chance and should be given a second chance.

The semi- finals of this prestigious maiden series will definitely be exciting with many of these pups sure to improve. Racing kicks off at 7:18pm on Friday night, with all eyes focused on The Ultimo Circuit as the next generation of Australian sprinters is unveiled.

Jason Mackay’s Packing A Punch In 2013 Golden Easter Egg Series

If there’s one thing master Hunter Valley trainer Jason Mackay knows how to do is prepare greyhounds for the big occasions. This makes it even harder to believe that Mackay is still searching for his first Golden Easter Egg victory since the race’s inception in 1990.

2013 maybe the year with his two assault charges; Sometimes Speedy and Punch One Out, both ultra-impressive in their respective heats last Saturday night.

Sometimes Speedy, who clocked a flying 29.68 in an all the way display from box four in heat ten, impressed the Richmond Vale mentor for several reasons.

“The track was slowing down a bit towards the end of the night so she can improve on that. After being in the kennels for nine races I could not have been happier” said Mackay.

The daughter of Collision and Gemstone Supreme came to Mackay’s kennels in January from South Australia and has oozed class in all of her eight starts, recording eight consecutive victories. Her biggest win to date was saluting in last month’s Group One National Futurity final, clocking an airborne time of 29.40 in defeating kennel mate Punch One Out.

Drawing box three in semi-final number two of the Easter Egg, Mackay believes this will give her a great opportunity to improve.

“The earlier race will definitely help. You could see the track slowing down towards the end of the night so that time was very pleasing. She has won all eight starts for me since coming from South Australia and that’s a sign of something special”.

It was a credit to Mackay; he followed his instincts and took Sometimes Speedy on board after originally rejecting the offer. His team are now certainly reaping the rewards, just one race away from a Golden Easter Egg final.

By no means discourage kennel mate Punch One Out after a sensational runner up performance last week behind Graeme Bate’s Fully Advanced, who was just .02 seconds outside Noble Pedro’s Wentworth Park 520m track record of 29.43. After sitting behind the leader from box six, the daughter of Knocka Norris and Little Egyptian, checked off the leader in the home straight eventually beat by less than a length, still managing to clock a sizzling 29.51.

“She took three lengths off the leader who run a near track record. She still clocked one of the fastest runs of all time around the track and she came second. It’s hard to believe” said a delighted Mackay.

Coming up with box five in semi-final number four would usually be a deterrent for any trainer, quite the contrasting thought with Mackay extremely positive about the draw.

“I know this might sound strange but I’m happy with the five. If she draws the inside she crashes, so the middle is perfect for her. Hopefully she can put it all together”.

Mackay may head to Wentworth Park on Saturday night with two final spots already secured for next week as Tricky Jade and Zipping Simba were both successful at headquarters last Sunday night in heats of the Group Three Centrebet Magic Maiden series.

Tricky Jade recorded best of the night figures with a blistering 29.86 performance from box six, leading all the way to score by an enormous 10.5 lengths. Scarily, Mackay admits there is still more to come.

“I was very happy with her time but she can improve on that. The wind was howling which made conditions hard so I’ll look for her to go even better” said Mackay.

It’s no surprise Mackay expects the daughter of 2012 NSW Sire of the Year Bit Chili and Navigator Miss to lower her personal best, after an astonishing 29.45 performance trial at Unitbet Gardens in November last year.

On the contrast, Zipping Simba displayed a far from perfect performance, however did show promise in navigating his way through the field to score in 30.46. The raw nature of the youngster by Mantra Lad out of multiple group winning producer Or Catra will improve with experience, as Mackay explained.

“He did everything wrong and still won the race which was pleasing. He’s exactly the same at home, he’s very green in what he does but the more races he gets under his belt, the more mature he will become’.

There is no denying Jason Mackay is a true master in the art of training having racked up 29 winners already in 2013, inevitably with many more to come. Easter Egg Final night could provide the Mackay camp with multiple victories as he prepares live chances in both the Group One and Group Three semi-finals.

The passion Mackay exudes talking about the Easter Egg is obvious and infectious; even suggesting that I (as an unabashed Jason Mackay fan) make sure to “pull the whip” on Saturday night as he chases the illustrious $250,000 first prize; to be run and won next Saturday night.

Home Town Favourite Jagger Swagger Draws Well In 2013 Golden Easter Egg Semi Finals

Four red hot Macro Meats Golden Easter Egg Semi-Final have come together following last weekend’s ten heats.

Saturday’s opening Semi-Final will include heat winners Jagger Swagger, Princess Black and Cracker Jack Lil.

Second of the Semis in an extremely open affair with Jason Thompson’s Boris Fields drawing favourably in box two, on the inside of Sometimes Speedy, which has drawn box three.

While being the slowest of heat winners, Stetson Donna has been advantaged by again drawing the red alley again, a pleasing outcome for Owner-Trainer Peter Dundon.

Fastest heat winner, Fully Advanced, lines up in the third qualifier, against Hot Irish, Joshua and Mythical Eagle. Stopping the clock just two hundreths outside the track record, Fully Advanced and kennelmate, Joashua will challenge early, given both greyhounds posted low 5.30 first sections last week.

Saturday’s final qualifier includes Andrea Dailly’s trio; Spud Regis, Garrick Bale and Grigorieva Bale, which have drawn along side each other.

An impressive Semi-Final, Horsham Cup and Macro Meats Golden Easter Egg heat winner, Peter Rocket is also drawn in the final Semi, in box seven, with consistent placegetter Imry Bale in box eight.

First and second from each Semi-Final will qualify for the Golden Easter Egg final, with third and fourth qualifying for the Group 2 Ambrosoli.

The box draws for the Macro Meats Golden Easter Egg Semi-Finals, to be held, Saturday, March 23 are:

2013 Golden Easter Egg Semi Final Box Draws

Macro Meats Golden Easter Egg Heat 1
NG 520 Metres $6,000 – $1,675 – $840
Box 1 – Sheikha – John Finn
Box 2 – Jagger Swagger – Mark Azzopardi
Box 3 – Princess Black – John Heard
Box 4 – Allen Dion – Andrea Dailly
Box 5 – Cracker Jack Lil – Peter Hunt
Box 6 – Whispering Wind – Angela Langton
Box 7 – Magic Billions – Ruth Matic
Box 8 – Wooden Ball – Mark Arncliffe
1st res – Rob Pines – Edward Medhurst
2nd res – Deutronium – David Knocker

Macro Meats Golden Easter Egg Heat 2
NG 520 Metres $6,000 – $1,675 – $840
Box 1 – Stetson Donna – Peter Dundon
Box 2 – Boris Fields – Jason Thompson
Box 3 – Sometimes Speedy – Jason Mackay
Box 4 – El Caballo – Darren McDonald
Box 5 – Magnum Blast – Anthony Azzopardi
Box 6 – Renegade Chief – Kel Greenough
Box 7 – General Destini – Emilio Rinaldi
Box 8 – Gradence – Mark Gatt
1st res – Easton Bale – Andrea Dailly
2nd res – El Brooklyn – Jason Thompson

Macro Meats Golden Easter Egg Heat 3
NG 520 Metres $6,000 – $1,675 – $840
Box 1 – Winsome Charlee – John Finn
Box 2 – Hot Irish – Steven Clarke
Box 3 – Fully Advanced – Graeme Bate
Box 4 – Dinkum – Julie Fletcher
Box 5 – Joshua – Graeme Bate
Box 6 – Mythical Eagle – Anthony Meredith
Box 7 – Amadeus Strikes – Steven White
Box 8 – Billy The Sid – Sydney Swain
1st res – Cadence – Frances Harris
2nd res – Minza Red One Charlie Gatt

Macro Meats Golden Easter Egg Heat 4
NG 520 Metres $6,000 – $1,675 – $840
Box 1 – Garrick Bale – Andrea Dailly
Box 2 – Grigorieva Bale – Andrea Dailly
Box 3 – Spud Regis – Andrea Dailly
Box 4 – Bubba’s Dream – Ken Bailey
Box 5 – Punch One Out – Jason Mackay
Box 6 – Nitro Cee – Wayne Vassallo
Box 7 – Peter Rocket – Keith Hellmuth
Box 8 – Imry Bale – Graeme Bate
1st res – Grovebrook Ruler – Michael Doggett
2nd res – Gold Town – Peter Hunt

This weekend’s program will be supported by the running of the 720m Hotham Body Repairs Association Cup and 520m Ultra Sense heats.

While on Friday night, four Semi-Finals of the Centrebet Magic Maiden and Macro Meats New Sensation will headline the program.

Magic Maiden & New Sensation Semi Finals Drawn

Following heats of the Centrebet Magic Maiden and Macro Meats New Sensation over the weekend, the Semi-Final qualifiers have been announced.

Qualifiers for the two Group 3 events are provided, not in box draw order.

Box Draws for these events, as well as the Hotham Body Repairs Association Cup and Ultra Sense will be released on Tuesday March 19th.

Pre box draw qualifiers for the Centrebet Magic Maiden Semi-Finals are:

Semi A: Tricky Jade, Black Rip, John’s Joy, Clockwise, Hope’s Fancy, Major Khan, Dither, Rev Me Up. Reserves: Diamond Chief, Black Revolver

Semi B: Lochinvar Brando, Travelling Joe, Doo Wop Hooligan, Clonakilty Man, Caboul, Chevy Silverado, Magic And More, Evil Punk Reserves: Stonebrook, Gaudi

Semi C: Palucka, Zipping Simba, Tollo, Droopy’s Jenmar, Got The Life, Gazmick’s Gift, Chevy Spark, Little Red Reserves: Unorthodox, Zulu Zues

Semi D: Ibrox Digger, Good Odds Demon, Cloud Ten, Sparra Lee, Kool Mac, Vinny Kreuger, Mike Marlow, Flaming Frenzy Reserves: Queen Esther, Sonic Zone

Pre box draw qualifiers for the Macro Meats New Sensation Semi-Finals are:

Semi A: Fast Archer, Super Colossal, Mystic Fancy, Jonardo, Sydenham Joe, Bee’s Thunder, Cawbourne Hitman, Tiggerlong Rum. Reserves: Superior Izmir, John’s Son

Semi B: Charmed Assassin, Sanjuan Slim, Sydenham Pearl, Cawbourne Classy, Camouflage Model, What A Player, Magic Opinion, Midnight Rush. Reserves: Honey Chicken, Creepy Coupe

Semi C: Lachland Loaded, Tricky Business, One Inch Punch, Lightning Lulu, Scout’s Gold, Spud Gun, Dark Assassin, Vivian Bale. Reserves: Cawbourne Crazy, Cawbourne Nitro

Semi D: Johnny Fire, Rigs, Helena Izmir, Crosby Stills, Haven, Cawbourne Brodie, Notty Hornblower, Nan’s Girl. Reserves: Cawbourne Sparky, Cawbourne Witch.

Maitland Gold Collar Final Attracts Red Hot Field

The attention of NSW Greyhound Racing this week has no doubt been on the heats of The Group One Golden Easter Egg, however on Thursday just two hours up the road, Maitland Showground was host to some interstate chasers and locals alike, all vying for a spot in the 2013 Gold Collar final.

Carrying a winning cheque of $4000, The Maitland Gold Collar series always attracts plenty of attention, with this year no different as four spectacular fields assembled for the series specifically aimed at short course specialists. The series provides the perfect appetizer for the 2013 Gold Cup held over the 450 metres with the heats to be conducted on the 4th April at the Showground Circuit.

The first heat went to the superbly bred Coastal Storm. Trained at Nabiac for astute mentor Craig Francis, the blue brindle sprinter had not had a start since last April when tailing the field in the 2012 Group 2 Maitland Gold Cup. By super sire Big Daddy Cool out of the prolific producer Bazwill, the rising four year old was bred to be fast with his first up performance from box six proving that neither his age nor his absence from the race track was an issue. With sixteen months difference between Coastal Storm and his next eldest competitor, the grand old campaigner showed the pups how it was done, defeating recent Maitland winner Armenra by a solid one and a half lengths in 22.52 seconds. The ultra-consistent performer now has the very impressive record of eight wins and three placing’s from just 18 starts, and whilst he has obviously has had his share of injury problems, based on Thursday’s performance, there should be plenty of wins left in him.

Heat two went the way of the airborne Swift Callah, who not only won in a blistering 22.48 seconds, but also broke the first section split held by handy bitch April’s Legacy when clocking an unbelievable 5.10 seconds to the turn out of the back straight. Trained at Albion Park by Jason Matthews, Swift Callah led from box rise and in turn gave sire Big Daddy Cool two qualifiers for next week’s final. The black bitch out of Star Callah has been a more than handy performer winning 23 of her 38 starts and has maintained her unblemished Maitland record of two starts for two wins. The Mark Azzopardi trained Transcend Time came in a close second and will definitely be better for the run, with the multiple city winner sure to improve after his first up performance since last November. The enormous 35 kilogram chaser certainly has an affinity with the showground circuit, previously clocking a scorching 25.13 seconds for the 450 metre trip, with the son of Elite Oriental well in contention for this week’s final.

Dave Irwin continued the interstate invasion in heat three with Scissor Queen continuing on her winning way when she obliterated her fellow canines by two and a quarter lengths in a smart 22.38 seconds. In a similar demonstration as last week, the pint sized powerhouse rocketed to the rails after a clean getaway and gave nothing else a look in at what was a breathtaking performance. The 25 kilogram daughter of Knocka Norris is all heart, rarely puts in a bad run and now has the dominant record of sixteen wins and three placing’s from 24 starts. Among these wins is the 2012 Grafton Cup and a scintinalling victory at Grafton where she went 27.15 seconds over the 480 metre journey- a mere two lengths off the track record. It is fair to say, whatever box she draws the red fawn dynamo will be a dominant favourite.

Irwin left with a double on Thursday night after Hot Tewin was also victorious in the third on the card. The White and Black speedster has had one previous start at the Maitland for a near record 24.95 seconds, and whilst Thursday’s time of 25.19 seconds was not quite as fast, it was just as impressive with the daughter of Give Me Five racing out wide from the yellow the entire trip until she was able to weave in between runners in the straight before drawing clear to win by three quarters of a length on the line.

The fourth and final heat went to a local with Diddy Strike defeating his opposition by six lengths and in turn striking up win number 23 for Bishops Bridge trainer Colin Kneeshaw. Kneeshaw has had a great deal of success with his ‘Diddy’ line which has produced some talented pups over the years. Some of his best were the talented bitches Diddy Rose and Diddy Shine, with the latter throwing her tenacity into Thursday’s winner, a son of both her and the great Elite State. Diddy Strike will soon turn four years of age, yet is still racing with a great deal of zest and has certainly been a fantastic frontrunner for his owner/trainer. Facing the starter on seventy three occasions, the black chaser who Tips the scales at over 34 kilograms has now won a very impressive nine races at Maitland, with Thursday’s time a handy 22.56 seconds. Diddy Strike’s earnings now stand clear of the $34,000 mark- a fine feat for such an honest greyhound and his equally genuine mentor.

The box draw for the prestigious Gold Collar final will be released on today, and whilst Scissor Queen looks the early favourite, the draw will definitely determine who is her biggest threat with all runners capable of winning given the chance.

Graeme Bate Fully Advanced To 2013 Golden Easter Egg Semis

Graeme Bate prepared, Fully Advanced was amongst a handful of runners which set the track alight on Saturday night (March 16) at Wentworth Park, in the heats of the Macro Meats Golden Easter Egg.

Having twice won the series before, Bate knows just what it takes to win the three week event, with Fully Advanced in prime position to now go all the way.

Saturday’s ten, Group 1 heats attracted a wonderful array of sprinters and a strong crowd to witness the exceptional racing.

Reigning champion trainer, Jason Thompson opened the night in stunning style, with Boris Fields beating favoured Renegade Chief in a sizzling 29.54. Only his second look at the Glebe circuit, Boris Fields will be among many that will improve with further runs on the track.

In form NSW runner, Princess Black claimed the second qualifier, again in good time (29.59), over the ever consistent Imry Bale and Nitro Cee. Trainer John Heard, was thrilled with the victory and the continued good form of the up and coming runner, which now has eight wins from 14 starts to her name.

The NSW runners continued on their winning way in the third heat, with Mythical Eagle winning for Anthony Meredith. In an exciting battle with speedster, Joshua, Mythical Eagle was able to charge on the line and win by just half a length. The victory bound to have elated Meredith, who was stuck at home unwell.

It wasn’t long however before the Victorian runners returned to the fore, with Group 2 Horsham Cup winner, Peter Rocket claiming race four. Recording 29.52 in his first look at the track, the son of Where’s Pedro is bound to improve and continue the good run for Lisa and Keith Hellmuth.

Short price favourite and dual Group 1 winner, Spud Regis didn’t disappoint his followers, winning the first leg of the quaddie for the Dailly team. Strong performances were also posted from runners up Bubba’s Dream and Gradence, with all three progressing to next Saturday night’s Semi-Finals.

Mark Azzopardi’s Jagger Swagger, showed he really does have the moves claiming race six of the night, over Hot Irish and Magnum Blast. Leading all the way, Jagger Swagger was impressive in his 29.56 victory, taking him to five wins on the trot.

With four sub 29.60 runs having already been produced by mid way through the program, those trackside couldn’t have asked for much more in the standard of racing. They were however certainly not left disappointed when Fully Advanced went just three thousandths outside of the Track Record, posting an amazing 29.45.

In a field worthy of being a semi-final, Fully Advanced reminded bookmakers and punters alike of his sensational early speed which had already seen him make one Group 1 Final at Wentworth Park.

Cracker Jack Lil showed why early speed is so critical in early races leading all the way in heat eight of the night. The blue bitch holding out 2012 Macro Meats Golden Easter Egg finalists, El Caballo by just half a length, with Winsome Charlee finishing in third.

A winner of an Egg heat last year, Stetson Donna returned to Wentworth Park in fine fashion, winning the ninth heat over favoured Billy The Sid. The longest odds winner of the night looked to be gone down the back, before rallying again in the straight to score the win. The result pleasing to Owner-Trainer Peter Dundon, who has had a difficult 9 months with injuries.

Shortest price favourite of the night, Sometime Speedy claimed the final event, putting the cherry on top for a number of punters who stuck with the inform Jason Mackay runner at $1.50. Winning by four and half lengths, Mackay again looks to have a strong chance in another Wentworth Park feature.

The four Semi-Finals of the Macro Meats Golden Easter Egg will be conducted next Saturday night, along with the Group 1 Hotham Body Repairs Association Cup.

Introducing The New Breed

Maiden races are always met with a sense of anticipation and excitement from all types of greyhound enthusiasts as a new wave of potential superstars is unveiled. The Centrebet Magic Maiden series provides a rare opportunity for the young and eager to step up onto the biggest stage at Wentworth Park and launch their career.

The Group Three listed event with a $25,000 winner’s purse is not for the faint hearted, as the testing 520m two turn circuit can prove an obstacle for even the most experienced race dog.

Every race goer will be keen to inspect new breeding prospects with a particular interest in Lochinvar Marlow’s offspring who have begun to filter onto the race track with prominent early success.

Mike Marlow (x Fascinate Marina) is the 2010 Paws of Thunder winners best hope after recording two sizzling performance trials at Maitland (25.56) and Gosford (29.78). Trained on the Central Coast by Lorraine Atchison, his dam Fascinate Marina, who was trained by Lorraine’s sister Noelene Holloway, had a successful racing career including 12 wins with 7 of those at Wentworth Park. Queen Esther also trained by Noelene, is engaged in heat 10 also with two positive performance trials at Gosford with a personal best of 30.12. With both greyhounds possessing natural early speed, Magic Maiden final night may just turn into a family affair for these two talented female trainers.

It wouldn’t be a feature series without dominant trainer Jason Mackay unleashing new, majestically bred superstars onto the scene. This year is no exception with Mackay’s best hope Tricky Jade. By Bit Chili out of Navigator Miss who was a National Futurity finalist, recorded two blistering performance trials at Unitbet Gardens (29.45) and Wentworth Park (29.92) in recent weeks and will be a heavy favourite when she steps out in heat eight from box six.

The famous Or Catra offspring are looking to continue the dynasty of success for renowned breeders Martin and Fiona Hallinan. Or Catra was responsible for the likes of; 2011 NSW Greyhound of the Year Zipping Lad, 2011 Group One Bold Trease winner Zipping Malfoy and Zipping Man who took out the 2011 Group Three Magic Maiden series. Zipping Simba is by Mantra Lad with fellow sibling Zipping Milo already showing promising early signs after running a brilliant second in this month’s Group Two Richmond Derby final taken out by Jagger Swagger. Coming up with box three in heat four, a respectable performance trial at Wentworth Park leaves plenty of room for improvement.

Mackay’s own charge Zipping April (Goodesy x Sirocco Lass) was just as exciting in a performance trial last week clocking 30.09 and is draw ideally out wide in heat seven to get the fly.

The name Frosty Fruits is synonymous to any greyhound enthusiast as one of the most successful bloodlines of all time. Flavours (2011 Group Three Laurie Healion Maiden), Pulp (Group Three Big Dog Cup), Goodesy (Group Two Bulli Gold Plate and Bulli track record holder) and Little Sparkle (2010 Richmond Oaks) are just a few of the prosperous offspring to come from this incredible broodbitch. This year trainer Craig Chappelow will unleash Frosty Vintage who is by Bombastic Shiraz and clocked the fastest performance trial at Wentworth Park last week, a sensational 29.90. Drawing box seven in heat eight will prove testing for the youngster but with plenty of room for improvement, no eyebrows will be raised if a lower time standard is set.

Castlereagh trainer Jane Carruthers has made an affluent return to racing with her best charge Clockwise. By Magic Sprite out of Elizabeth Royal, the speedy youngster has recorded three brilliant performance trials at Canberra (25.75), Gosford (29.88) and Wentworth Park (30.09). Coming up with box seven in heat four, this won’t be the last week see of this talented performer on the big stage.

Making the long trip down from Casino will all be worth it for trainer Brad Northfield if his talented prodigy Bralyn Morgan carries over his recent trial form onto the racetrack in heat three from box two. Beautifully bred by Collision out of Bralyn Mel who made the 2007 Group One Perth Galaxy and Group Three Easter Chase finals, was a very consistent stayer over the 700m plus journey. Its evident this stamina has transpired to her offspring with Bralyn Mel’s two performance trials at Lismore showing promising early signs clocking a personal best of 30.28 over the 520m journey.

Sunday nights racing will be a spectacular way to end the first week of the Golden Easter Egg series with those successful moving through to next week and one step closer to claiming the desired Group three event. It won’t come as a surprise to anyone to see these gifted youngsters return to headquarters next year and potentially claim the big one.

Fast Archer Sets Time Standard In New Sensation Heats

The 2013 Macro Meats Golden Easter Egg Carnival opened in style on Friday Night (March 15) at Wentworth Park, headed by eight heats of the inaugural Group 3 Macro Meats New Sensation series.

The time standard was set early, with Jane Carruthers prepared Charmed Assassin, pumping out a sizzling 29.97 all the way performance in the opening heat. A winner of eight from 16 starts prior to the series, the greyhound was the perfect candidate for the new event, with Carruthers thrilled at the son of Magic Sprite’s performance.

Sole Victorian in the series, Super Colossal, lived up to his name in the second qualifier, running down race favourite Mystic Fancy in the straight. Owner and handler, Geoff Collins, was impressed with his charger’s run, being the first time out of the boxes on the Glebe circuit.

Collins was confident before the race, saying that if left in the right position in later stages, Super Colossal was capable on running down early leaders. “He is one of the fastest dog we have ever trained, but he’s early section may get him in to trouble eventually,” Collins said following the race.

National Derby qualifier Rigs, continued on his winning way, in the fourth heat. Striking trouble early, Owner-Trainer Ryan Tredway said following the event he was surprised at the time the greyhound recorded given the interference experienced. “He some how seems to find a way through all the trouble, I am wrapped with 30.07,” Tredway said.

Fast Archer claimed the sixth run-off and in doing so, became the fastest qualifier for next Friday night’s Semi-Finals. Having now won five out of his last six starts, the Clay Mullins prepared runner is bound to start short than the $5.40 on offer in the heat.

Other heats winners on the night included Sanjuan Slim (30.19), Lachlan Loaded (29.98), Tricky Business (30.14) and Johnny Fire (30.03).

The first four from each heat will progress to next week’s Semi-Finals, with the top two from each Semi to contest the $25,000 to the winner Final on March

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heats Tips – Race By Race Analysis

We hope everyone had a chance to look at our indepth analysis of every greyhounds chances in the 2013 Golden Easter Egg and pre post betting.

Now we’ve taken that review and had a look at each of the 10 heats in an attempt to narrow down our Tips for each of the races on Golden Easter Egg heat night.

If your getting ready for a huge night of racing Saturday night, don’t forget you can take advantage of $1,400 in free bets at Luxbet, Centrebet, Sportsbet, Iasbet and Sportingbet by following any of our links and getting exclusive Free Bet offers as an Australian Racing Greyhound reader.

Regardless of whether your punting with one of our corporates from the couch, fighting the the crowds at the Pub Tab, or making the trek trackside; Golden Easter Egg Heats night is one of the most exciting nights of Greyhound Racing on the calendar, so lets see if we can find you a winner.

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 1

Its a little hard to work out who exactly is going to lead this first race here, but I’ve seen some speed maps and they have Boris Fields leading. If this is the case then the others might as well not turn up, but i cant see this happening.

Renegade Chief will have plenty of room to move and he should head them off around the first turn. Corridor will look to move off the track and he may take a few with him.

Veyron Bale and Boris Fields, need to clear Corridor early to avoid trouble. If they clear him they should land in behind Renegade Chief and look to fill the placings. Now lets assume this is not the case, and they find trouble then Dinkum and Heidi Go Seek may fill the placings.

Its always tough selecting the first 4 a Wentworth Park, as there continues to be some much trouble rounding the first turn.

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 1 Tips: 1st – Renegade Chief, 2nd – Veyron Bale, 3rd – Boris Fields, 4th – Dinkum

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 2

Nitro Cee, Princess Black and Tru Blu Ethics are the early speed in heat 2.

Nitro Cee the Victorian has great early toe and she should match it with Princess Black from the get go. If Tru Blu Ethics is able to head off the rest he should lob nicely into 3rd rounding the first turn.

Now lets assume Nitro and Princes are off and gone. This leaves us with Tru Blue Ethics, in 3rd with the pack chasing.

Imry Bale with the advantage of the inside box should be prominent and the strong runner Pops Max, should also be thereabouts. It will come down to luck in running.

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 2 Tips: 1st – Nitro Cee, 2nd – Princess Black, 3rd – Imry Bale, 4th – True Blue Ethics

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 3

There’s a lot of speed drawn on the outside of the track here and when we get 3 or more dogs all vying for the lead around the first turn we generally get trouble. Gotta be Fancy should be first to the rails and she should have the run of the race with her best jump. This is the toughest heat for mine and its going to be a lottery around the first turn.

If Gotta Be Fancy, can ping and hold out the leading division, round the first turn, then this brings Oomoo right into calculation. He’s a strong dog and wil look to he finishing all over the top of Gotta Be Fancy. If the outside runners do jam up then look for Grigorieva Bale and old fella to be getting home hard.

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 3 Tips: 1st – Oomoo, 2nd – Gotta Be Fancy, 3rd – Grigorieva Bale, 4th – Old Fella

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 4

We see two group 1 winners engaged in this Cintiarna and Glen Gallon. However both dogs will need an ounce of luck here. Peter Rocket holds the key here for mine. If he can bounce out and head of Magic Billions, this will bring Cintiarna into the race. If he doesn’t and Magic Billions is able to hold the lead, then I’m a a lost to work out what will happen.

There is very little early toe outside and we may see something come from behind here to win. Best case scenario is Peter Rocket leads and drags Cintiarna across. If they clear out then I like them to finish in this order.

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 4 Tips: 1st – Peter Rocket, 2nd – Cintiarna, 3rd – Magic Billions, 4th – Glen Gallon

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 5

The 3 inside runners hold the key in this. If Spud Regis and Jetta’s Girl can jump and head off Bubba’s Dream then it’s a no brained that Spud Regis wins. If this is the case then Bubba’s Dream and Jetta’s Girl will fight out second and 3rd.

Magic Fancy and Kobi Jay should fight out the 4th position. Spud Regis Has the ability too run sensational times and if he begins then he should stop the clock around 29.70. This will make it very hard for the others to run him down.

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 5 Tips: 1st – Spud Regis, 2nd – Bubba’s Dream, 3rd – Jetta’s Girl, 4th – Kobi Jay

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 6

Jagger Swagger has come up with box 8 here and this will suit him perfectly. Look for him him to be winding up around the outside. Street Bike Tommy has plenty of early toe and he should push through early, but he lacks the class of a couple of these and may find it tough to hold onto a place here.

With a little luck in running Magnum Blast and Hot Irish should be storming home to fill the placings.

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 6 Tips: 1st – Jagger Swagger, 2nd – Hot Irish, 3rd – Magnum Blast, 4th – Streetbike Tommy

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 7

Punch One Out as drawn perfectly out in box 6 and only needs to step away with Garrick Bale to win this. Garrick Bale can come out humming and he may bring Punch One out undone. Lets hope she can jump and go with him early.

Free Will is well boxed and he may get the run of the race if he can jump. He lacks the overall speed of some of the others, but he may just steer clear of trouble. Look for Two Tree Hill, Omar Gee, and local hope Bye Bye Bucks to be charging home late.

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 7 Tips: 1st – Punch One Out, 2nd – Garrick Bale, 3rd – Free Will, 4th – Bye Bye Bucks

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 8

Exciting heat with speed to burn in this. Cracker Jack Lil, and El Brooklyn look set to fight this one out. Both dogs have enormous early speed and Shanghai out of the boxes. El Brooklyn is much more experienced and a little stronger to the line, so she should be winning this. If Cracker Jack Lil, handles the track and jumps there’s no reason why she can’t hold onto second in this.

Xylia Allen, and Winsome Charlee are 3rd and 4th selections and both dogs are huge winning chances if they jam up, up front. But both will need the leaders to miss the kick. El Grover will look to get off the track at the first turn, so let’s he doesn’t cause any trouble.

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 8 Tips: 1st – El Brooklyn, 2nd – Cracker Jack Lil, 3rd – Xylia Allen, 4th – Winsome Charlee

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 9

Billy the Sid was brilliant last time out and he should be much improved after last starts first up effort. Look for him to be leading and winning this. He got quite tired last start but will find the line much better tonight.

With Billy the Sid off and gone that only leaves the placings left to fill. Mepunga Geordie and Deutronium look the best of the rest but both dogs will have to step away cleanly. The 4 inside runners are all a little outclassed and look as if they will fight out the 4th position. Wooden Ball is and old stager that is racing quite well and he may be able to fill the 4th position.

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 9 Tips: 1st – Billy The Sid, 2nd – Mepunga Geordie, 3rd – Deutronium, 4th – Wooden Ball

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 10

We see what I believe should be the series favourite here, Sometimes Speedy. The ex S.A chaser is low flying at the moment and the only way she will get beat is if she beats herself. She should ping from the middle of the track and race right away with this race early.

Sucker Punch, Whispering Wind and General Destini look the best of the rest. Sucker Punch, and General Destini have the ability to come from behind and they may look too fill the placings. Mr. Beau has talent but will be spotting the leading dogs a big start.

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 10 Tips: 1st – Sometimes Speedy, 2nd – General Destini, 3rd – Sucker Punch, 4th – Mr Beau

Amadeus Strikes From Deaths Door To Golden Easter Egg

Training a successful race dog is what every person within the greyhound industry strives for; but training a winner that you have bred yourself makes it so much more special. This will be the story for Nowra mentor Steven White, as he lines up his talented race bitch Amadeus Strikes in Heat One of the $250,000 Golden Easter Egg.

What makes this chaser so extraordinary is the obstacles she has overcome in her colourful career, that has seen both the highs and lows of the sport. Owned and bred by Kayla Coleman and Steven White, the stunning black bitch is by champion Victorian sire Bombastic Shiraz out of the impeccably bred, Forgetful Lucy.

Forgetful Lucy was by no means a slouch on the track, however it was her breeding that destined her for a bright future as a broodbitch, being out of the prolific producer Sensation Lee; responsible for throwing some brilliant athletes, most notably Lochinvar Marlow, but also the speedsters Lochinvar Vogue, Determined Lee, Uno Kendra and Godsend among others.

Amadeus Strikes has been ultra-consistent throughout her career, winning a total of eleven races, from 35 starts, and whilst she may not have the glittering records of some other Golden Easter Egg contenders, the versatile powerhouse always manages to slip under the radar.

White has certainly shown plenty of perseverance with the handy chaser, whose talent has been evident since the start of her career. She started her career in the prestigious Vince Curry Memorial in QLD, where she made the final of the Group 2 event.

Amadeus Strikes then ventured back home to NSW and went on to string together four very impressive victories in a row at Bulli and Dapto, before trying her luck in the big smoke with a couple of handy placing’s before finally notching up her first win at the Ultimo circuit. The enigmatic bitch followed through over the next few months, scoring three more wins before she and another kennel mate took ill.

The illness put a giant question mark over the sprinters future, with not just her racing career but also her life hanging in the balance. She was nursed back to health with the assistance of a veterinarian, at what was a long and lengthy ordeal for all involved.

Whilst she showed plenty of resilience by overcoming her malaise, the query as to whether she would ever return to her best was still unanswered. After two below par performances at Wentworth Park, White decided to take the gamble and enter Amadeus Strikes for the Group three Nowra Puppy Classic.

Drawing box two in her heat, she found plenty of trouble early before being forced off the track on the first turn. In a gutsy effort of sheer determination the bitch was able to gain back her momentum before rocketing home for third place. With a similar display in her semi, Amadeus Strikes managed to just scrape into the field when she was called upon as a second reserve. In her typical under-the-radar style, the dynamo didn’t let the awkward six alley stop her, pinging the lids to win at the juicy odds of $21.90

Just to prove it wasn’t a fluke White lined her up for the Group Two Gosford Gold Cup, where she held her own in a terrific field, eventually finishing second in the action packed final to the talented Free Will. Since being a runner up in The Gosford Gold Cup, Amadeus Strikes has returned to the track four times for two impressive wins at her last two starts.

The first of these wins was two weeks ago at Wentworth Park when she astounded racegoers with a brilliant last to first chasing effort, rounding up the field in a nippy 30.21 seconds. This run was potentially the best of her career, finding all sorts of trouble yet nevertheless weaving her way through the pack to find the lead on the line, and in turn prove what a capable and determined chaser she really is.

In her last preparation run for the Easter Egg heats, the versatile bitch was stepped up over the gruelling 618 metre journey at Richmond- where she scored an emphatic victory against a cracking field in the Frank Kennedy Memorial.

Despite her two latest starts resulting in two barnstorming victories, there is no doubt that this Saturday’s field will ultimately be her biggest challenge to date. The youngster has everything working against her as she steps out of the blue box in one of the more challenging heats – not only does she have the poor draw to contend with; but she also versus the likes of the flying Victorian sensation Boris Fields, and outstanding southerner Renegade Chief who will no doubt be looking for the lead early from out wide.

Regardless, the achievement that Steve White has accomplished in getting Amadeus Strikes not only back to the winners list but to win at Group 3 level and now to be competing at Group One level is astonishing. His commitment and dedication to the bitch is second to none, and no matter what plays out in this race; for a young pup to bounce back from deaths door and be such a success is a win in itself.

Ray Webster Disqualified For Four Months Over Steroid Positives

Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW) Stewards concluded an inquiry into analyst’s reports that the urine samples taken from Lagoon Lowanna after that greyhound had won Race 10 the Toohey’s Old Heat 4 at Dapto on 19 April 2012 and Race 9 the Hotham Body Repairs at Wentworth Park on 26 May 2012 had been analysed and found to contain the prohibited substances Nandrolone, 19-norepiandrosterone and 19-noretiocholanolone.

Evidence was taken from trainer Raymond Webster, the Australian Racing Forensic Laboratory’s (ARFL) Dr Adam Cawley and GRNSW Integrity Officer Wayne Billett. Written evidence was entered from the ARFL’s Dr Craig Suann the Manager Analytical Services at the Racing Science Centre Queensland Mark Jarrett and Rossmore Veterinary Clinic.

Mr Webster pleaded guilty to two separate charges under GAR 83(2) in that he had been responsible for the presentation of Lagoon Lowanna for the races in question other than free of a prohibited substance in that the urine samples taken from the greyhound were found to contain Nandrolone and its two metabolites.

Mr Webster could not enlighten the Stewards as to how the prohibited substances were found to be contained within the urine sample taken from Lagoon Lowanna other than to offer than it may have been contained in the meat fed to the greyhound.

Mr Webster was disqualified for a period of four months and fined $1,500 for each of the two charges, which are to be served concurrently.

In determining penalty Stewards took into consideration the GRNSW Penalty Guidelines, Mr Webster’s unblemished record in the industry over a period of 11 years as a licensed trainer in which time many of his greyhounds had been sampled, his personal circumstances being that he is a public trainer with approximately 30 greyhounds in his care, the guilty pleas entered by Mr Webster and the personal references supplied to Stewards on behalf of Mr Webster from Ray Brown (Elders Real Estate Camden), Paul Mack (Secretary Manager Dapto A & H Society and Dapto Greyhound Racing Club) and Mick Player (Camden Branch GBOTA/Deadwood Lodge). Penalties for breaches of this rule involving similar substances were also considered.

Under GAR 83(4) Lagoon Lowanna was disqualified from both events and the placings were amended accordingly.

Mr Webster has lodged an appeal against the decision and a stay of proceedings has been granted until such time as the appeal is heard.

4 Reasons Why Hot Irish Will Win The 2013 Golden Easter Egg

Over the next three weeks, everyone in the greyhound game will have an opinion on which dog to follow, back or lay over the Golden Easter Egg series. In most cases, WA chaser Hot Irish will not be readily mentioned in those conversations, however before dismissing her as just an interstate visitor on another miracle mission, allow yourself to consider the following;

Overall Record
The Golden Easter Egg brings together the very best from all over the land, however there are few dogs engaged which can boast the overall record that this bitch brings to the table. She’s notched up 39 wins in a 70 start career, giving her a 55% winning strike rate, with 19 placings to go with them. Now the logical argument is that the quality and depth of opposition she generally faces week-to-week at home may be inferior to those in the Eastern states, which is the common opinion, however still quite hard to judge. One thing that isn’t hard to judge is career prizemoney, and at $314,735 Hot Irish has earned more dosh than 77 of the other Easter Egg runners; third only behind Glen Gallon and Spud Regis.

Change of Trainer
Formerly under the care of Ben Abercrombie, she has transferred to the kennels of David Righetti for the purposes of an Egg campaign. While the bitch has forged her career with Ben, the kennel change will allow Hot Irish to remain in NSW, and avoid the taxing travel across the country. Having raced at The Meadows the past three weeks, it would appear logical that giving the dog time to settle into a new environment would do her the world of good. Furthermore, the Righetti Kennel isn’t exactly a bad place to be, with a strike rate of 35% for 2013 and the former home of NSW State Sprint Champion, Exclusive One

Recent Form
It’s time to analyse what the dog has done lately, as to win an Golden Easter Egg, you have to be at top form. Her last month on paper appears only fair, with two wins from his past five starts. However, those that have seen her past four runs will know how close this chaser is to a big race win. She had won nine out of her past ten when she made the final of her home Group 1, the Perth Cup. She ran third in that event after beginning well and being absolutely skittled on the first corner. She came from the second half of the field, and finished better than anything else in the race, including favourite Glen Gallon

From there it was off to Victoria for the invitation-only event, the Temlee. Drawing box two, it was a carbon copy of the Perth Cup where she begins well and gets knocked from pillar-to-post along the front straight and sent back to last. From there she ran on to finish fifth, beaten seven lengths against the best field possible, a mighty effort for a greyhound accustomed to leading in her races.

She remained in Victoria for the Australian Cup series, and proving that her luck was due to change, she won the event in 30.03 over Allen Dion. Amazingly, she had to come from behind again when Kevin Bale checked her run and sent her backwards early on. In a compete reverse of her usual racing style, she made it three Group 1’s on the trot by taking a split between runners and grabbing the win on the post.

Then last start was obviously the Aussie Cup final and does anyone want to take a guess what happened? That’s right, she jumped well again, got squeezed again from the dreaded five box and flew home to finish third behind Spud Regis and El Brooklyn, running past Cintiarna, Oomoo and Linden Magpie on her way.

Wentworth Park & Her Golden Easter Egg Heat
So we come to Saturday night and the start of NSW’s biggest series. Again Hot Irish has drawn poorly in six, but there are factors in her favour. For one, the race is at Wentworth Park. That’s important simply because the greyhound has seen this track before. In fact, she’s been in this series before, and not surprisingly, she made the final, running seventh behind Don’t Knocka Him in 2012.

With this knowledge of the track, there is every chance Saturday night that she will begin at his best, and with any luck whatsoever, she will cross the field and lead all the way. The heat isn’t overly tough, with Jagger Swagger and Streetbike Tommy looking the obvious dangers from box eight and two respectively with respect given to Mr Clydesdale from four.

Even if this trend of finding bother continues, her runs at The Meadows suggest she’ll be strong enough to qualify for the semi-finals regardless, and with a good draw from there on, expect to be hearing a lot more about this ultra-consistent, underrated raider from the West making it four Group 1 finals on the trot.

Are You Ready For A New Sensation?

The most exiting time of the year is upon us as the Macro Meats Golden Easter Egg carnival kicks off this Friday night with eight outstanding heats of the inaugural New Sensation series. The Group Three, $25,000 to the winner event, has stipulated conditions where a greyhound must be 27 months or younger and have won no more than 10 races from 20 starts.

A terrific new initiative by the GBOTA, the Macro Meats Golden Easter Egg carnival covers both age and experience to give Greyhound Racing enthusiasts the ultimate preview of our future superstars.

Some notable performers include:
John’s Son (Bit Chilli x Jamad) for in form Hunter Valley trainer Ron Bell, clocked a sizzling 29.59 personal best back in January after a sensational 29.48 maiden victory at Unibet Gardens and will exit from box five in heat one. In spite of the poor draw, he is a certain series favourite and will no doubt be back next year to have a crack at the big one.

Mystic Fancy (Mantra Lad x Fancy Trace) for multiple group winning trainer Anthony Azzopardi was impressive on debut at Wentworth Park last week recording a respectable 30.04. Coming up with the coveted red rug in heat two, the youngster is in pole position to lower his personal best. Also stepping out in heat two from box three is the impeccably bred Midnight Rush (Bombastic Shiraz x Smashing Amy) for trainer Michael Pes. Despite having mixed form as of late, a blistering 29.66 maiden victory at Dapto will surely make him one to watch.

Sydenham Pearl (Just the Best x Sydenham Rocks) trained by Kristy Sultana has started off his with a boom having racked up 4 wins and 1 minor placing from just six starts including a speedy 30.67 personal best at Richmond. Expectations will be high with a favourable box two draw in heat three.

The dark horse of the recent Group One National Derby series at Unibet Gardens, Rigs (Pure Octane x Really Satisfies) for Ryan Tredway has superior feature race experience under his belt after winning his heat and semi-final of the series and in doing so clocked a scorching 29.57. Although drawn in the middle box of heat four, Rigs early speed has the capacity to overcome this flaw and significantly lower his personal best time at the track of 30.30.

Two equally gifted greyhounds will exit side by side in heat five as red hot trainer Jason Mackay’s rising star One Inch Punch (Knocka Norris x Little Egyptian) from box five takes on Lesley Hannaford’s Haven (Big Daddy Cool x Whip It Up) from box four. After recording some dominate times at Maitland including 25.27, One Inch Punch produced a solid Wentworth Park win of 30.35 after beginning moderately and darting his way through the field to score by four lengths. Haven has been in sensational form of late generating some flying personal bests at Richmond (30.57) and Dapto (29.79). He is yet to be unplaced at Wentworth Park with a decent personal best of 30.37 which definitely can be improved.

Young gun trainer Clay Mullen’s prosperous run is surely set to continue with Fast Archer (Collision x Clay Model) as consistent as they come winning 2 of his 3 starts at Wentworth Park with a 30.04 personal best. A winner in four of his last five outings including a stunning 29.82 at Dapto, his early pace should overcome a tricky box four draw in heat 6. Group winner Dark Assassin (Collision x Daydream) for Anthony Azzopardi returned to his classy best last week with an encouraging hit out on Friday night at headquarters clocking 30.02 and will exit from a wide draw once again. Beautifully bred Culoz (Hondo Black x Joop Muse) for Victorian trainer Rosalyn Hume was extremely exciting on debut at Sale last week clocking a blazing 29.61 and at just his second career start this week is certain to turn heads if a repeat performance transpires.

Tricky Business (Collision x Daydream) trained by Kristy Sultana is another promising prodigy from the highly successful Daydream litter having clocked a flying 29.99 personal best at Wentworth Park on debut at the track in February. Exiting from box one in heat seven, all eyes will be on the clock for another notable performance. Ichi Tooshi (Bombastic Shiraz x Infinity) for recent greyhound the year winning trainer Mark Gatt is yet to be unplaced in his 9 career starts with 3 wins and 6 minor placings including a red-hot 29.74 effort at Gosford. A box five draw will prove an obstacle for the risky beginner but a clear run will no doubt exude the talent this greyhound possesses.

Johnny Fire (Knocka Norris x Gunna Oz) trained by Trevor Hagney will certainly step out with anticipation on debut at Wentworth Park in the eighth and final heat from box eight. His recorded 9 wins from just 15 starts with some astonishing personal bests at; Maitland (22.19) and Gosford (29.81) and will surely add to this imposing list on Friday night.

The running of restricted races is an important part of a young greyhound’s development and allows their connections to experience the thrill and satisfaction a group victory bestows. The New Sensation series is bound to introduce future champions to our sport and will undoubtedly become a time honoured classic, yearned by trainers Australia wide.

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heats Form Guide & Betting Tips – Every Greyhound’s Chances Analysed

The action kicks off this Saturday night with the heats of the Group 1 Golden Easter Egg, with ten heats that are sure to throw up some surprises. We have a full review of each dog for you to hopefully help you back a winner and overall pick the victor of the $250,000 to the winner Group 1.

Don’t forget you can take advantage of $1,400 in free bets at Luxbet, Centrebet, Sportsbet, Iasbet and Sportingbet by following any of our links and getting exclusive Free Bet offers as an Australian Racing Greyhound reader.

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 1 7.28 pm

Box 1 – Corridor A young Victorian dog who posses big motor. He has come up with the rails draw here, but will need as much luck as possible. A last start Meadows winner, he worked really hard and came from a long way back to beat the talented Whispering Wind. Young inexperienced type, with a big motor, and it will take a massive performance to win the Egg. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $41

Box 2 – Veyron Bale Another Victorian with the ability to be very competitive throughout the series. He has posted a very fast 29.65 here and has the advantage of having started here 4 times, a huge plus. One of the bigger chances in this series. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $51

Box 3 – Borris Fields Yes yet another Victorian, one of the fastest dogs to contest the series with a blistering 29.59 run at the Meadows. He lacks early speed and this may be his undoing. Very talented pup and a big chance with luck in running. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $18

Box 4 – Amadeus Strikes Our first local hope with plenty of track experience. A fast dog but lacks the class of some of these. Ordinary beginner that will need luck to win this. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $401

Box 5 – Dinkum Local dog who posses the speed to be competitive here, but looses all chance at box rise. Needs to jump to get through this tough heat. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $401

Box 6 – Heidi Go Seek Super smart young Victorian who looks a to have some serious speed. Has recently posted a 29.73 at the Meadows but has been set a huge task here. May find the going tough from out wide here. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $51

Box 7 – Serisier Street Has a super PB but faces a massive class rise and it looks like the step up may be far too much. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $501

Box 8 – Renegade Chief Super Star dog who rarely runs a bad race. He has drawn nicely here in box 8. He should win his heat and looks a huge chance to take home the egg. Will start one of the favourites in this series. Big Watch. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $21

Our Tip Heat 1 looks to be one of the easier heats to find a winner in. Renegade Chief the top selection here.

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 2 7.50 pm

Box 1 – Cadence Fast local bitch, with plenty of experience. However it will take a huge performance and plenty of luck to add $250,000 to her prize money tally. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $251

Box 2 – Nitro Cee Very talented Victorian, who has drawn really well here. Has loads of early toe and looks set to be a huge threat. The tight Wentworth Park circuit will suit her perfectly and she looms as a serious contender. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $51

Box 3 – Imry Bale The son of Go Wild Teddy is well traveled and a very experienced campaigner. Has run some fast times and is a 4 time veteran here at the track. Has the ability to surprise and must be kept safe. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $31

Box 4 – Fiery Very fast Victorian, that may struggle here, having to come from behind. Generally begins very steady and takes a little while to hit his straps. Needs plenty of luck to win this one. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $61

Box 5 – Hoover Boy Quick dog that has threatened many times before. Requires luck and needs to get it in each race to win the Egg. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $151

Box 6 – Princess Black Young local who could not of done anything more to impress. Won a FFA last start and only needs to handle the class rise to assert herself in this. 29.79 winner here and may be the value runner for the series. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $41

Box 7 – Pop’s Max Very fast dog who certainly has the motor. But box 7 makes it tough and he may need plenty of luck. A nice chance to win the GEE if he can make it through this and draw and get lucky with inside boxes. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $61

Box 8 – True Blue Ethics A very handy dog who loves to win. But may find it tough against this opposition. He should go well from the 8 but he looks tested against these. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $201

Our Tip Heat 2 looks a little harder than the first. Nitro Cee has plenty of early toe and may give them something to chase in this.

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 3 8.08 pm

Box 1 – Oomoo Victorian who has experience here at Wenty. Box 1 is a huge advantage and he could easily win this with the right run. Outside chance here for the series. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $51

Box 2 – Gotta Be Fancy Quality bitch, and goes well here. Has good early toe with a fast 29.85 and she may go close in this heat. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $101

Box 3 – Old Fella Nice dog who has the ability to feature in this. May need a slice of luck but don’t cross him out. Has run some nice races and times, and if you like him back him. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $51

Box 4 – Grigorieva Bale Super dog who always races well. Has had plenty of goes here and he has the speed to win this. He has a fast 29.86 here and looms as one of the better chances in the series. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $51

Box 5 – Sheikha Group 1 Paws of Thunder Winner. You can never write off a Group 1 winner, but she has gone right off the boil since winning the big one. Must be kept safe but I’m prepared to risk her from box 5. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $101

Box 6- Mythical Eagle Old dog who has never gone better than his recent runs. He has never won from box 6 and may again be winless from this box. Going to well to leave completely out. Needs to repeat his best 29.75 run to win this series. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $71

Box – 7 Joshua Quality dog with a big motor and if he can begin like he did last start he will most certainly be a danger in this. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $81

Box 8- My Sweet Love Flying machine early who loves to race around here. But she may need to find a few lengths to challenge the big guns if she can make the final. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $201

Our Tip Heat 3 and Oomoo, has drawn nicely. Boxes win races and he may push hard up inside early and prove to be too good here. Hard Race.

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 4 8.28 pm

Box 1 – Magic Billions He certainly deserves his chance in this and is lucky enough too have come up with box 1.But he may need more than good boxes to win the big one. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $201

Box 2 – Peter Rocket Recent Horsham cup winner who throughly deserved the the big one. Im a fan of this dog and he looks a good solid chance to win the GEE. Fast determined dog, with great track sense. Great chance. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $31

Box 3 – Dozen Points Has posted the time it takes to win the big one. But looks tested against this class. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $201

Box 4 – Cintiarna Recent Temlee winner with a huge motor. Is as tough as they come and when they tighten up early, she wont be one who eases. Will push through a brick wall and has the quality and determination to win this. If she gets through the heat watch out!! Golden Easter Egg Betting: $18

Box 5 – Allen Dion Fast FFA dog who goes well against fair opposition. May find these a bit challenging. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $36

Box 6 – Noble Bale Victorian who goes ok. Has his work cut out here and best to watch this bloke. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $301

Box 7 – Spitfire Stu Handy dog in the same category as Noble Bale. Will do it tough against these. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $301

Box 8 – Glen Gallon SuperStar Queenslander who just keeps on giving. Box 8 makes it tough for this bloke but don’t underestimate him. Champions find a way too win and he is no exception. If he makes it through the heat he will give a huge sight. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $14

Our Tip Heat 4 tough race with plenty of chances Glen Gallon, Peter Rocket, Cintiarna, i reckon the winner will come from one of these 3.

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 5 8.28 pm

Box 1 – Bubba’s Dream Very, very fast bitch that is defying her age. Has a tendency to be moody, but if she switches on – watch out – the lure may not be able to go fast enough. Knockout chance and may be worth having something on as the overall winner. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $18

Box 2 – Jetta’s Girl The Queenslander little Jetta’s Girl looks to have her work cut out in this. However Tony Brett, compared her to Hall of Famer Bogie Leigh in racing prowess. Gets her chance, but looks a rough show. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $101

Box 3 – Spud Regis Group 1 Australian Cup winner who is flying at present. Superstar chaser who will shake the life out of this, but don’t assume he’s just across the line here. He has to do everything right. But looms as one of the favourites in this. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $9

Box 4 – Magic Fancy Super fast local but needs everything go his way. That wont happen here so back at own risk. Really rough chance to win the final. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $51

Box 5 – Kobi Jay Fast dog who excels here at Wenty, but has to do it tough here tonight. Maybe not. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $301

Box 6 – Paua Of Darkness This looks well above him. $1000-1 for the final. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $301

Box 7 – Rob Pines Grand old dog who just keeps going. Never stops trying and not without a chance in this heat but winning the final looks beyond him. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $201

Box 8 – Gradence Slow early and virtually no hope of winning the final. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $501

Our Tip Heat 5 looks a two dog race. Bubba’s Dream and Spud Regis should fight this one out.

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 6 9.10 pm

Box 1 – Magnum Blast Tough fast dog who looks a rough chance to win the final. Handles the inside but will rely on a little luck in this. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $41

Box 2 – Streetbike Tommy Nice dog who is generally competitive in his races but needs to find his very best to challenge here. Really rough hope of winning $250,000. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $151

Box 3 – Minza Red One Looks tested in this, but has the home town advantage. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $401

Box 4 – Mr. Clydesdale The fastest winner around here at Wenty in a blistering 29.56. Can run the time, but his best days look to have passed. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $31

Box 5 – Marvicki Nice dog but not tonight. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $501

Box 6 – Hot Irish Superstar W.A chaser who is low flying at the moment. Gutsy strong effort in the Australian Cup, its going to be hard from box 6, but watch out. She wont give up and may be a nice selection to win the big one. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $21

Box 7 – Sign Of Snow Has drawn well but thats it. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $301

Box 8 – Jagger Swagger Dual Derby winner flying at present. Boxed well and will go super in this. Big chance and likely favourite for this heat. Leading contender in the final. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $8

Our Tip Heat 6 see’s the clash of the heavy weights Jagger Swagger and Hot Irish. The winner should come from one of these two.

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 7 9.27 pm

Box 1 – Free Will He gets his chance to advance through here. But only a each way chance of wining this. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $201

Box 2 – Two Tree Hill This bloke is going fantastic. Tardy early but has the ability, he may need a little luck but watch out of he gets it. Should get through his heat and poses as a danger. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $71

Box 3 – Omar Gee Nice dog who has been going really well. Will have to be at his best. But not without a genuine hope. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $41

Box 4 – Bye Bye Bucks Top liner who should be getting back to somewhere near his best. Needs a littel luck like most, but he will loom large in this series. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $61

Box 5 – Fully Advanced Very fast dog with a PB of 29.72, but he has only managed it once in 3 tries. Could be a smokey. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $61

Box 6 – Punch One Out I have had a huge opinion of this bitch from day 1. She has drawn really well here and is going to be one of the big chances in this years egg. She has enormous pace and will shake the life out of this. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $21

Box 7 – Garrick Bale Fast dog with a good record here but just a tad off his best. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $101

Box 8 – Gold Town Both he and his brother face drawn wide and are not suited by the wide boxes. Very fast animals but will need plenty of luck. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $101

Our Tip Heat 7 and I’m going with Punch One Out. Super bitch who should win her heat with a bang. I really like her and she’s worth backing pre post.

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 8 9.50 pm

Box 1 – El Grover Drawn well but this looks a bit beyond him. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $501

Box 2 – Cracker Jack Lil Super quick little bitch with blistering early toe. Should fire out and will take a power of beating. The track will suit perfectly, massive chance if she continues to fire out of the boxes. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $36

Box 3 – Pippa Shiraz Another fast bitch who can certainly win this. Needs a little luck like most but is a determined little thing. Has posted a fast 29.53 at Sandown. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $151

Box 4 – Xylia Allen One on my favourites, she has been from day 1. May have the biggest motor in this series but Bate’s decision to try to win the Super Stayers came as a huge shock to me. She may have taken ill from those runs, and I’m unsure about her, so soon after the Super stayers. But Graeme Bate will have her right so watch out. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $16

Box 5 – Winsome Charlee Very strong fast bitch. But will rely heavy on luck and not something you want to be doing in big races. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $61

Box 6 – El Brooklyn Superstar little bitch, who fires out nearly every time. Will match motors early with Cracker Jack Lil early. Finds the line better then Cracker and may be too good here. If she continues to jump, she will give this series’s a huge fright. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $12

Box 7 – Barelen Norris Only making up numbers. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $501

Box 8 – Bonita Banana Speedy early but that’s about it. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $301

Our Tip Interesting clash this one. Many winning hopes with loads of early speed. El Brooklyn off and gone.

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 9 10.12 pm

Box 1 – Stetson Donna Badly out of form and her days are numbered in my opinion. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $201

Box 2 – Closing Time Good record and not without a wining chance in this heat, but that’s as far as she may go. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $51

Box 3 – Wooden Ball Grand old fella, but not tonight mate. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $501

Box 4 – Dyna Drago Fast dog but not here at Wentworth Park for mine. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $81

Box 5 – Billy the Sid Flying machine who will improve out of sight on last weeks run. Should pick these up and carry them across the line in this. If he keeps improving he will most certainly loom as a huge threat in the final. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $51

Box 6 – Blitz to Excel Nice dog with a fair amount of ability but too hard here tonight. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $501

Box 7 – Duetronium Nice bitch with a good outside box record but this is though. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $51

Box 8 – Mepunga Geordie Very talented animal but box 8 makes it very hard. Will need plenty of luck. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $101

Our Tip Heat 9 and Billy the Sid is rearing to go in this. He looks mighty hard to beat.

2013 Golden Easter Egg Heat 10 10.35pm

Box 1 – Dyna Filbert Box draw helps but will need all the luck he can get. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $41

Box 2 – Mr. Beau Very fast dog that refuses to jump. If he happens to spring out watch out! Golden Easter Egg Betting: $151

Box 3 – Carlos Pedro – SCRATCHED Very fine young dog but is being asked too much of here. Maybe if they jam?

Box 4 – Sometimes Speedy Always Speedy Lately and she probably starts as the series favourite. Jason Mackay has her airbourne at the moment and she should easily race away with this. 29.61 last start expect her to go quicker tonight. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $7

Box 5 – Sucker Punch Slow early and need plenty of luck. Will be chasing in vain on this. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $401

Box 6 – Easton Bale Find this a bit hard here. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $151

Box 7 – General Destini Such a good honest dog, who tries his heart out each start and deserves a big one and could pinch the Egg with luck. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $31

Box 8 – Whispering Wind Fast early and will go well here. Should make the next round and could be a rough chance. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $151

1st Reserve – Franklin Hero (Box 3) Gets the run after the scratching of Carlos Pedro, probably starting from box 3. Doesn’t have the pace of those boxed outside, nor the finish of The General. No. Golden Easter Egg Betting: $71

Our Tip Winner should come from Sometimes Speedy, Genera Destini or Whispering Wind. Open race unless Sometimes Speedy steals a break from box 5 then only The General could run her down.

Well there you have it, a round up of all the dogs competing. I hope we have narrowed it down a little bit for you, but no doubt there will be a surprise here of two pop up. They are all very fast dogs and all deserved there spots.

At the end of the 3 week series, we will be left with just one lucky winner. Who will collect the mammoth cheque of $250,000 – not bad for the “Poor Mans Horse”!

Best of luck, pre-post betting should be up in the next couple of days. With all our sponsors Sportingbet, Iasbet, Sportsbet, Centrebet and Luxbet offering a pre post market. We’ve quoted you the Sportsbet markets.

2013 Golden Easter Egg – Don’t Overlook The Track Specialists

The spotlight will shine on Wentworth Park this Saturday as the nation’s top echelon of sprinter’s converge at the Ultimo course in search of group one glory during the heats of the 2013 Golden Easter Egg. Whilst the fields contain the best greyhounds Australia has to offer, many of the circuit regulars have an excellent chance of claiming the $250,000 winner’s cheque.

Prelude winner True Blue Ethics is Moorebank mentor David Smith’s sole charge for the feature, with the Blue Brindle son of Surf Lorian and Dreamin’ Ethics looking a live chance from box eight in heat two. The three year old sprinter has been a model of consistency winning an impressive 13 races from just 35 starts with 4 of those wins occurring at Wentworth Park, with a further 14 placing’s to his name. Despite the fact that True Blue Ethics has only won once from the pink in five starts, he has run a few handy placing’s from out wide, and with his ability to ping the lids, he is more than capable of finding the lead and running a cheeky race.

My Sweet Love steps up to Group Company for the first time in heat three, with the daughter of Magnificent Love certainly racing in career best form for Canyonleigh mentor Ruth Matic. A winner of twelve races from 28 starts, the exciting local has won six races at The Ultimo racetrack, with three of those wins occurring at her last four performances. Whilst this will definitely be her acid test My Sweet Love does have a good record from the outside, winning four races from box seven, with her quickest time, a slick 29.95 seconds on the 9th March this year.

Matic also has a runner in the fourth heat, with Magic Sprite youngster Magic Billions drawn favourably in the cherry. Whilst he does have to contend with ‘big guns’ Peter Rocket, Cintiarna and Glen Gallon, he is a very honest pup who has never missed a place from twelve starts at the track where he has also won three races, all in handy time.

Blacksmith mogul Ron Bell will be assembling his dynamic duo for the heats with underrated littermates Kobi Jay and Mr Beau to face the starter in their respective races. By champion sire Collision out of the dazzling race bitch Daydream, a group one winner herself, the siblings both have massive motors but often bring themselves undone at box rise.

Kobi Jay faces a difficult task in heat five with the airborne Spud Regis amongst his stiff opposition, however the brindle performer should not be written off, being a winner of nine races from a mere 20 starts. The two year old powerhouse has recorded some scintillating times in the past, with a nippy 30.08 second win at Wentworth Park to his name whilst he also clocked a flying 29.47 seconds at Unibet Gardens last November.

Brother Mr Beau lines up in the last on the card for Bell, with the black chaser hoping to make it his ninth race success by taking out heat ten. The more experienced of the two, Mr Beau is a multiple city winner with a personal best time of a blistering 29.81 seconds at the track. Whilst box two will be a definite advantage, Mr Beau will have to contend with Jason Mackay’s Sometimes Speedy who has won her past seven straight races- all in fantastic time- including the Group One Futurity at Unibet Gardens. The clash between the two Hunter Valley speedsters looks mouth-watering, with Sometimes Speedy’s early zip sure to be tested by Mr Beau’s fast closing finishes.

Track Specialist Minza Red One resumes from a lengthy spell in heat six for Catherine Field trainer Charlie Gatt, with the grand old campaigner allocated the white box for his return to the racetrack. A winner of eight races over the track and distance the red fawn dog is an excellent beginner and should be up close to the lead at the first turn. By Bombastic Shiraz out of Araluen Valley, Minza Red One is certainly bred to be fast with his Grand dam Twisted Angel a winner of the 2005 Ladies Bracelet, and thus far the three year old has been a fantastic performer for connections-scoring second in a prelude of the 2012 Melbourne Cup to the eventual winner, Got A Moment, whilst he has also landed impressive victories at Maitland, Bulli, Dapto and Gosford.

NSW Sprinter of the year Bye Bye Bucks will also look to pick up where he left off, as he lines up in heat seven for his first race start since last September. The son of Bit Chilli is Wentworth Park royalty, winning thirteen from 29 over the 520 metre trip with a flying personal best of 29.73 seconds. The black dynamo who doesn’t turn three until next month has hardly put a paw wrong in his career, competing at the top level for most of his starts, winning both the Group 2 Dapto Megastar and the Group 2 Blacktop at Unibet Gardens during 2012. In all he has won a total of 21 races for trainer Kenneth Lewis with stakes earnings over $165,000, so despite the fact that he has not raced in close to six months, he certainly has local experience and plenty of talent on his side.

All eyes will definitely be on Wentworth Park this weekend and whilst many of these runners may not have the glittering resumes with the group credentials and prizemoney statistics as some of the interstate runners- they are all very talented sprinters and above all they do have experience on their side, and at a tricky track such as Wentworth Park, that can make all the difference!

2013 Macro Meats Golden Easter Egg Heat Fields Released

Ten sensational heats of the 2013 Macro Meats Golden Easter Egg (520m) have been drawn for this Saturday night’s, March 16, program at Wentworth Park.

The $250,000 to the winner series, includes an impressive line up of Australia’s best sprinters, including dual Group 1 winner, Spud Regis, NSW Greyhound of the Year finalist, Bye Bye Bucks and exciting youngster Xylia Allen.

With the first race to commence 7.28pm, punters should not be late getting trackside with the likes of Renegade Chief, Boris Fields and Dinkum opening the meeting.

Macro Meats, Managing Director, Ray Borda, said that the standard of runners was again fantastic for the three week series. “The Macro Meats Golden Easter Egg never ceases to disappoint with the standard of greyhound engaged in the series,” Borda said.

“Macro Meats is thrilled to be associated with one of the best Greyhound Racing Carnivals in the World, and we are sure that everyone really can expect the exceptional over the coming three weeks.”

The fields for the 2013 Group 1, Macro Meats Golden Easter Egg heats are available here : 2013 Golden Easter Egg Heats Box Draw.

The first four from each heat will progress to the Saturday, March 23, semi-finals.

A reminder that tickets are still available for the Golden Countdown Cocktail Function on Level 1 on March 23. Tickets
are $50 per person and include; entry, racebook, live entertainment, premium finger food, dessert bar and more.

Tickets can be obtained from the NSW GBOTA on 02 8587 1210.

Tweed Heads Greyhounds Set To Move Over The Border To Qld

Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW), Racing Queensland Limited (RQL) and the Tweed Heads Coursing Club have agreed to investigate a proposal for Greyhound Racing at Border Park to be transferred to Queensland’s racing jurisdiction.

Border Park, managed by Tweed Heads Coursing Club, is located one and a half hours from Brisbane on the Queensland and NSW border and is utilised by industry participants from both states.

At present, the Tweed Heads Coursing Club is in negotiations for the sale of a large portion of its land at Border Park, which will provide the club with the funds to redevelop its Greyhound Racing facilities with a stateof- the-art track plus a brand new kennel block and patron amenities.

Despite the venue upgrade, the capacity of GRNSW to fund TAB racing at the Border Park venue would be extremely limited without major structural reform in the Northern Rivers region.

Under the proposal currently being investigated, a transfer to Queensland’s racing jurisdiction could result in two weekly TAB race meetings – a potential for 104 race meetings a year.

Tweed Heads Coursing Club Secretary Manager Stephen McGrath said the club was keen to progress the proposal.

“Anything that leads to greater use of what will be an outstanding new racing facility at Border Park is a win for Tweed Heads as well as a win for participants and supporters of Greyhound Racing in this region,” Mr McGrath said.

“We have already met with the NSW Member for Tweed Mr Geoff Provest and welcome his support for the proposal.”

GRNSW Chief Executive Brent Hogan said the proposal could see great outcomes for participants in both NSW and Queensland.

“If Border Park remained a GRNSW controlled track, the number of TAB meetings that could be held at the venue would fall well short of what RQL could potentially provide,” Mr Hogan said.

“GRNSW see this proposal as an ideal opportunity to benefit participants and to grow Greyhound Racing in the Tweed, no matter which side of the border they live on.”

RQL Chairman Kevin Dixon believes the proposal shows substantial merit and is worthy of further investigation.

“Greyhound Racing on the Gold Coast was lost several years ago and it seems only logical to investigate a proposal on the nearby Border Park facility,” Mr Dixon said.

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