SA West End Distance Championship & Anniversary Cup Box Draws
Last night at Angle Park we witnessed greyhound chasing at its best with two heats of the West End Draught Distance Championship and five heats of the West End Draught Anniversary Cup.
South Australia’s star chaser Kalden Mayhem for Troy Murray showed why he is still a force to be reckoned with on the National scene after a brilliant finishing burst secured the first heat of the Distance Championship. At the ripe old age of 4½, Kalden Mayhem ran through a gap in the shadows of the post between exciting Victorian Proven Impala who had led most of the way and the NSW trained Robert Andrew who was also powering home, to claim victory by ¾ of a length in a solid 43.36 for the 731m journey.
Proven Impala was sent out a short priced favourite and held on well for second and should be further improved for next weeks final with seasoned campaigner Robert Andrew a further ½ length away in third place. All three look to have strong claims in next weeks Group 3 feature.
The fastest qualifier for the final was in heat two with the Victorian trained Mimicking for Rob Britton finishing too powerfully for the Petar Jovanovic trained Cousin Callum recording a 1ÂĽ length victory in a handy 43.33. Mimicking raced up on the pace for most of the race just behind leader Cousin Callum before over powering last years winner in the final straight. Fellow Victorian Maddison Dee ran home nicely for third spot a further 4 lengths away however does look to have the job ahead of her in the final.
Joint feature on last night’s program was the heats of the West End Draught Anniversary Cup over the 515m journey with the Group 1 Temlee winner Cintiarna justifying her series favouritism with a strong display in the third heat of the night. Trained in Victoria by Sandra Collins, some thought that box 5 and her first look at Angle Park could be enough for her to be beaten, however those fears were allayed soon after the start where she began well to race up near the lead before taking over into the back straight and racing away for a strong victory. She won in a slick 29.88 by 2½ lengths with Adelaide Cup finalist Prank Call running a solid second. Once the box draw was completed and Cintiarna drew the red she is now confirmed as the race favourite.
A hot field awaits her however, especially Kalden Kurageous for trainer Troy Murray who demolished the clock in the first heat running a sizzling 29.56 and showing his abundance of potential. He defeated Tercel for Karen Bearpark by 3½ lengths who also went super running a personal time of 29.76 and also qualifying for next weeks final.
The inform kennel of Robyn Mackellar produced the second heat winner Just Shine who made it 4 wins from his last 5 starts when he was able to race up on the pace and then run away from his rivals by 4½ lengths in a flying 29.66 defeating Young Snozz who ran home very strongly from a long way back.
Kalden Komoto for Troy Murray caused the biggest upset of the night when he was able to rail strongly over the concluding stages and run down Ritza Ben by 1 length in a solid 29.99.
Kalden Komoto did a fantastic job to qualify considering he came from the pink box and was able to find his way to the rails just off the pace mid race and now gives leading local trainer Troy Murray two greyhounds in next weeks final. Race favourite Fire Tyson found trouble during the run from the inside box and flashed home into third position.
The final heat was taken out by the Jeff Britton trained Mepunga Geordie who continued on his winning way at Angle Park after he won last Octobers Adelaide Cup Consolation. Last night the Victorian began faultlessly from box 5 and pounced on the early lead before opening up down the back and racing away from his rivals to win by 7 lengths in a flying 29.73. The Britton camp have been great supporters of SA feature racing and with Mepunga Geordie making another feature final even box 8 may not stop their run of success.
The box draws were conducted on course last night at Angle Park for the $36,000 Group 3 West End Draught Distance Championship and Anniversary Cup Finals with GRSA fortunate to have Port Power coach, Ken Hinkley, willing to assist with the box draw formalities as he enjoyed a casual night out at the greyhounds.
The West End Draught Distance Championship Final field in Box Draw order is:
1. Mimicking Rob Britton (Vic)
2. Kalden Mayhem Troy Murray (SA)
3. Cousin Callum Petar Jovanovic (SA)
4. Proven Impala Joe Borg (Vic)
5. Robert Andrew Steven White (NSW)
6. Miss Woods Gino Grgurovic (SA)
7. Maddison Dee Michael Chilcott (Vic)
8. Azz Always Damien Mills (SA)
9. Delightful Bond (1st Res) Michael Delorenzo (SA)
10.McLaren Prince (2nd Res) Tania Foster (SA)
The final looks one of the most exciting contests in recent years with only .11 of a second separating the top five qualifiers. It will be race 8 on the program and is listed to jump at 9.11pm (SA time).
The West End Draught Anniversary Cup Final field in Box Draw order is:
1. Cintiarna Sandra Collins (Vic)
2. Prank Call Paul Barry (SA)
3. Kalden Kurageous Troy Murray (SA)
4. Young Snozz Petar Jovanovic (SA)
5. Just Shine Robyn Mackellar (SA)
6. Tercel Karen Bearpark (SA)
7. Kalden Komoto Troy Murray (SA)
8. Mepunga Geordie Jeff Britton (Vic)
9. Ritza Ben (1st Res) Matthew Payne (SA)
10.Van Persie (2nd Res) Paul Barry (SA)
The box draw has made for a very interesting contest even with Cintiarna drawing the pole and brilliant beginners Prank Call and Kalden Kurageous drawn right alongside, the first 75 metres will be crucial. It will be race 6 on the program and is listed to jump at 8.28pm (SA time).
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.
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.
Spud Regis Draws Box 1 In 2013 Australian Cup Final
The Andrea Dailly-trained Spud Regis has come up with the coveted red draw in Saturday night’s Group 1 Maurice Blackburn Lawyers Australian Cup at The Meadows, worth a whopping $250,000 to the winner.
Owned by the Treloar syndicate, Spud Regis looked back to his best with a dazzling 29.76 victory in last night’s heats, recording super splits of 4.99 and 17.69, defeating Fiery by five and a half lengths.
Spud Regis will be looking to give Andrea Dailly her second Australian Cup success after victory with Dyna Lachlan in 2010. The black chaser is one of four greyhounds in the final sired by the great Bombastic Shiraz, a recent Hall of Fame entrant for what has been a stellar racing and stud career.
Great campaigner Glen Gallon has drawn box four in his quest for history after a last stride win over Ima Geisha Girl in 29.81. The son of U.S. sire Flying Stanley and Incoherent would push his winnings beyond $730,000 if victorious on Saturday, creating a new Australian prizemoney record.
Littermates Hello Good Bye and Cintiarna also look winning chances after brilliant heat victories. Hello Good Bye was the fastest of the eight heat winners, leading from the outset to score in a sizzling 29.74.
Sister Cintiarna continued on from her fabulous Temlee victory with a gutsy 29.99 win after a rough run to the first corner. The Bombastic Shiraz – Hello Sienna pair have drawn boxes two and six, respectively.
Trainer Jason Thompson will be looking to continue his amazing run after qualifying El Brooklyn (box three) in Saturday’s Group 1 classic. The daughter of El Galo pinged the lids in heat one, racing away to a 29.84 win, fresh off her Group 2 Healesville Cup success this month.
Next Saturday night will also see the running of the Group 1 Macro Meats Superstayers – worth $100,000 to the winner – and the Cosmic Chief Vic Breeders, worth $25,000 to winning connections. Entry is free and former Australian Idol star Jessica Mauboy will be part of a huge night of entertainment on the evening.
2013 Australian Cup Final Box Draw
$250,000 to the winner. Group 1. (525m)
Box 1 – Spud Regis – Andrea Dailly – 29.76
Box 2 – Hello Good Bye – Kel Greenough – 29.74
Box 3 – El Brooklyn – Jason Thompson – 29.84
Box 4 – Glen Gallon – Tony Brett – 29.69
Box 5 – Hot Irish – Ben Abercrombie – 30.02
Box 6 – Cintiarna – Sandra Collins – 29.99
Box 7 – Linden Magpie – John Norden – 29.89
Box 8 – Oomoo – Neville King – 29.77
1st res – Ima Geisha Girl – Jason Thompson – 29.85
2nd res – Dyna Filbert – Graeme Bate – 30.20
Greyhounds Tips For Saturday 23rd February 2013
Sensational night of racing tonight at the Meadows, with heats of the Australian Cup and Super Stayers.
The Mighty Miata, takes on the up and comer, and recent dual track record breaker Xylia Allen in a heat of the stayers event.
There’s no doubting Xyalia Allen’s strength, after recently smashing Irma Bales, track record at Geelong. But it’s sure to be a huge test, taking on Australia’s greatest stayer first up over the staying trip.
The Australian cup heats, are sure to showcase Australian Greyhound Racing at its best; with recent Temlee winner Cintiarna,
Proven Nitro and the Grand old Champ from Queensland Glen Gallon amongst many other talented types engaged.
The Meadows Greyhounds Race 4 Box 3 Bell Haven 8.22pm Vic time
I don’t think I could find enough to put on Bell Haven in this!! She is low flying at present and put in a huge effort last week behind Destini Fireball. There is certainly plenty of pace in this event with Irma Bale and recent Rokie Rebel Winner Proven Impala set to take up the early lead. Bell Haven should position just in behind the the leaders and prove way to strong to the line. She’s right at the top of her peak and looks destined to win this. Best bet of the night!!!
The Meadows Greyhounds Race 10 Box 1 Linden Magpie. 10.20 pm Vic time
The old favourite of mine, Linden Magpie has come up trumps with the coveted rails draw here. This bloke is more a selection using my heart rather than my head. But he’s been such a honest, tough dog throughout his career, I can’t tip against him. He goes ok from the rails and of he’s able to boot up inside then early he will be mighty hard to run down. He’s been knocking on the door for some time to win a big one, and although he has his work cut out here. I’m hoping he can keep that dream alive tonight for trainer J Norden. Each way.
Wentworth Park Greyhounds Race 10, Box 3 Scout’s Gold 10.35 pm Nsw time
We are going to have to wait till the last event tonight at Wenty, to back a winner. But Scout’s Gold Looks a huge chance in this race. He went super last week at his first attempt at head quarters. Only failing by 2 lengths after missing the start and bursting through the pack to hit the lead, only to be run down on the line. The son of Magic Sprite, is usually a good beginner and will take huge benefit from his first attempt here last week. I can see him leading tonight with his best jump, and running much faster then his time of 30.46,he run last week after being slowly away. I got the feeling he’s capable of around 30.20 or better and that should win this last event tonight. Great Each Way bet.
Cannington Greyhounds, Race 2 Box 8 Agent Dunham. 7.27 pm WA time
If ever a dog needed box 8 it’s Agent Dunham. She got that wide last week she was lucky to stay on the track. Her run over the longer trip last week was great, and she will have no trouble dropping back in distance, and disposing of these. She has run the quickest PB of all of these and looks certain to win this tonight. She’s one to keep the eye on and looks a bitch set to go places.
Best of Luck
$$ Another Day Another Dollar $$
Cintiarna Upsets The 2013 Temlee
The brilliant Cintiarna – paying the juicy odds of $19 – upstaged her more fancied rivals to win the Group 1 Macro Meats Temlee over 525 metres in brilliant fashion.
The daughter of Bombastic Shiraz and Hello Sienna began perfectly from her wide draw of eight, crossing the star-studded field with ease. After stopping the first sectional timer at 5.07 – and the rest of her rivals jamming up on the first turn – the black chaser set up a race-winning lead as the Jason Thompson pair Boris Fields and Proven Nitro settled behind the tearaway leader.
With Boris Fields making some ground, Cintiarna rounded the back corner after a 17.77 sectional, with her strength showing the way, striding to a two and three quarter length win in 29.76 (11.99 run home) over Boris Fields and race favourite Proven Nitro, who was a further three and a quarter lengths away in third.
The win capped off a whirlwind few months for owner/trainer Sandra Collins, who won the Group 2 Cranbourne Cup with her star back in January.
The win was Cintiarna’s 16th from just 31 starts, with her prizemoney more than doubling to $190,470 thanks to the $100,000 winner’s cheque. The 31-kilogram star will now line up in next week’s heats of the Group 1 Maurice Blackburn Australian Cup, with the final worth $250,000 to the winner on March 2.
Cintiarna’s 2013 Group 1 Temlee Win
Greyhound Racing Tips For Saturday 16th February 2013
4.5 MILLION DOLLARS, That is what the 24 Greyhounds racing in the 3 Group 1 races at the Meadows tonight have amassed between them.
Yes that’s right $ 4,500,000 dollars…not to bad for the so called “Poor Mans Horse”!
Gone are the days of battling to earn a quid with your dog with the worlds richest race now yielding $350,000 to the winner – the price of a 3 bedroom home in some states.
No longer is the humble Greyhound a”Poor Mans Horse” but a very lucrative alternative to the thousands upon thousands needed to buy and train a racehorse. To put the prize money these hounds have earnt between them into comparison. One of the worlds greatest in Black Caviar has won $6,800,000; only $2,500000 more then these 24 group 1 contestants.
And she is yet to taste defeat in 22 starts. Having one nearly everything on offer. So if your considering purchasing a share in a racing animal, look no further then our humble 4 legged canine friend.
A huge night ahead with 3 Group 1 races totaling $250,000 in first place prize money, to be run and won tonight at the Meadows in Victoria. So we’re going to try find a winner in each group 1 race for you tonight.
The Meadows Greyhounds, Race 5, Box 4. The Mighty Miata. 8.43pm
The Group 1 Zoom Top. No need to be an expert here to know Miata Looks near impossible to beat in this. Arguably Australia’s Greatest Stayer and she looks set to do what Black Caviar will do to her rivals today in Melbourne – destroy them!!!
Should just win and maybe, just maybe, we might see backable odds for her with hopefully $1.40 on offer. But I won’t be holding my breathe.
The Meadows Greyhounds, Race 6 Box 4, Cailyn Bale. 9.03pm Vic time
The Group 1 Rookie Rebel looks to be a open affair and I’m going to go with the rough chance here in Cailyn Bale. Has fantastic early toe and may be the early leader. The Queenslander Metz Magic is drawn perfectly on box 1 but if little Cailyn Bale can jump and run I reckon she’s a sneaky chance of holding on to win this. The whole fields a danger and all can win this.A race full of different characteristics where each runner will need it their on way to win. Cailyn Bale for me.
The Meadows Greyhounds, Race 8, Box 3 Renegade Chief. 9.50pm Vic time
The final Group 1 tonight here with The Temlee see’s another star studded line up with Australia’s best sprinters, all vying for the $100,000 first prize. I’m going to go with the young gun here in Renegade Chief. He’s a really super chaser having missed the placings only once in last weeks Perth Cup, Behind Dyna Nalin. Has the early speed to offset his box and if he can jump and run he may find himself battling for the lead with Hurunui Hitman, Hot Irish and the Recent Group 1 Paws Of Thunder Winner Sheikha. No doubt something is going to give of they all charge into the first turn and I’m banking on this bloke coming out on front. He’s a big enough dog at 33kg and this should be in his favour. With the two small bitches in Hot Irish and Sheikha. He either leads Hurunui Hitman and wins or sits outside him and proves to strong. Remember all three Group 1s have Australia’s best Chasers engaged and ALL runners are winning chances.
Wentworth Park Greyhounds, Race 4 Box 2 White Ninja 8.28 pm Nsw time
White Ninja by the Super Talented Miagi, looks as if he’s a great place chance in this. Should possie up early and looks as if he will run out the staying trip. I think he may develop into a handy stayer in time. And if he can get out early and bowl along he may prove hard to catch and no doubt will be a big odds. Not sure why I like this bloke but I’m giving him a great place chance against the main chances who are all slow beginners and run on types. Good Place Bet.
Cannington Greyhounds, Race 8 Box 1. Just Tripping. 9.27 pm W.A time
Just Tripping looks set to win plenty of races here in W.A and Leading W.A trainer Linda Britton has taken the step of moving him up in distance, here to the 642m trip. He should have little trouble with the extra distance and I reckon this bloke may open a big lead half through way in this race and be too good. Has drawn perfectly but does take on the talented up and comer in Houdini Monelli, who im suprised has also been stepped up in trip. He looks the early speed in the race and these two look set too take it up early. Agent Dunham trained by trainer of the moment Paul Stuart Looks the other danger, but he will get back and run on powerfully. Just tripping to do just enough and hang on for a win here.
Fantastic nights racing with fixed Price on offer for all the Group 1′s with Sportingbet, Luxbet, Sportsbet and Iasbet all offering up a guaranteed win dividend.
Best of Luck
$$ Another Day Another Dollar $$
Greyhound Racing Tips For Thursday 14th February 2013
Tough day yesterday, only managed to find the one short priced favourite. Hopefully you all found a better we to spend your day then having a punt……or you decided not to follow my Tips!
Either way you’d have a lot more money in your pocket than mine.
However tonight’s a new night and hopefully we can turn it all around. A couple of value runners mixed in with some shorty’s but a winners a winner. Although a wise old man once taught me “No Dog can go as fast as the money you bet on him”
So tread carefully, but always remember any winners a good winner !!!
Albion Park Greyhounds. Race 1 Box 8 Hanify’s Ruler. 6.43 pm Qld time
Unfortunately somebody let the cat out of the bag with this bloke. I was hoping to get good odds about him, but it’s been recently published that he’s desperate for the 8. And is in fact a lot quicker than his form suggests. So there goes the good price. Hanify’s Ruler looks perfectly suited here against ordinary opposition. Has drawn his box and should be too good for this lot. His main threat will probably come from the Pat Comley trainer Roar Power.Who has drawn the rails.
Theirs not a great deal of speed so with his best jump he should get into the race from box rise. Looks to have a bright future, and is certainly bred to be a handy dog. He should be winning this tonight and won’t get a Better Chance than this !!!
Dapto Greyhounds. Race 8. Box 1 Triggsy 9.58 pm NSW time
This bloke Triggsy, is by my new favourite sire in Magic Sprite. By golly this bloke is getting some winners and he may turn out one of greatest ever; at least that’s my prediction. Triggsy’s mother was a very good bitch and this bloke looks just as good. He was working right into the race last week here at Dapto and looked to be a huge winning hope before finding trouble.
He was really eating up the ground and looked certain to score. Should get a fantastic sit behind Tian Hao Diva. Only needs a clear path around the first turn and the chance to get into gear and he will certainly prove to strong. Fast dog, big future and bad luck shouldn’t beat him this week….
Hobart Greyhounds, Race 3 Box 5. Terror Time. 7.58 pm Vic time
We tipped this girl to ya last week and even though she got beat their was no disappointment in her run. I certainly Did not expect Reg’s Big Boy to be low flying running 29.64. Her own 30.18 was still a good solid run. Tonight she steps up to the 599m journey and is already a winner over the staying trip at Devonport. A fast beginner who looks to have future and with a clean jump, she looks mighty here to beat in this. If she can get to the front she should keep rolling and prove too good.
Although She’s taking on some seasoned campaigners who are all well credentialed here and this looks a tough test for the daughter of Collision – Shepherd’s Girl, but I’ve got the feeling she’s right up to this and should acquit herself very well.
Great each way bet and should be healthy odds.
Sandown Greyhounds. Race 9 Box 7 Maddison Dee. 9.55 pm Vic time
The stayers line up here and I’m sure Maddison Dee will eventually win one, and it looks like tonight may be her chance.
The Daughter of El Galo – Oh Behave has been quite good since coming across for Tasmania. Since stepping to to the staying trip she’s certainly found her best form. She has been finishing on quite well of late and unfortunately was blocked for a run last week when winding up near home. Should get a clear run tonight and hopefully she can settle in the leading division. If she can she will be mighty hard to beat. She probably has to be in front of Black Deauville early to beat him here, but that’s quite possible with her best jump and she should be each way odds. If tonight’s not her tonight, then one things for sure it’s not too far off. Keep following.
Angle Park Greyhounds. Race 8 Box 2 Miss Woods. 9.41 pm Vic time
Going to give this great little chaser by Miagi a genuine chance here.Wot Price Jack looks super hard to beat. He has great early toe and will lead with ease from the inside here, and can run very quick time. Makes him near impossible to beat. But I’m going with Miss Woods at each way odds here. She can certainly match it here with Wot Price Jack, and if she’s able to stick with him early she may prove too strong for him tonight. He has to make a little mistake or not begin as well as he can, but with a little luck go her way she looks a great chance. Has always raced in top company and is no stranger to a good dog fight, having battled it out and beaten one of the S.A.’s best in Kalden Mayhem. Mixes her distances very well and the last couple have been over the 600 so she should start to get that early zip back. She’s strong, very honest and such a consistent chaser she has to be given a great hope in this tonight’. Each way.
Great night of racing lined up for tonight, and theirs no doubt the next couple of weeks will see some of the country’s best chasers battling it out in some really rich group races. Once again the Queensland charge is headed by the Champ Glen Gallon who lines up in Saturday night’s Temlee at the Meadows.
Fellow Queenslander and group 1 winner Metz Magic also carries the hopes of The Sunshine State in the group 1 Rookie Rebel and looks to have a great chance having re invigorating himself of late, in the twilight of his career. All in all a fantastic couple of weeks coming up and no doubt it’ll keep all greyhound fans with their tongues wagging.
Tonights card kicks off with the first race to start at Sandown at 6.09 pm Vic time.
Best of Luck
$$ Another Day Another Dollar $$
Paul Stuart Keeps Both Group 1’s On Home Soil
On what eventuated as a memorable night in the history of Australian Greyhound Racing, Nambeelup trainer, Paul Stuart will be sitting on cloud nine this morning, with both the Galaxy and Perth Cup trophies on his bedside table.
The young man has been in the spotlight more than ever before with Miata travelling around the country, and that attention is set to grow after his $224,000 payday at Cannington last night with three winners, including both the state’s Group 1 titles.
Race five was the Sky Racing Galaxy for which Miata was looking to claim the Australian stakemoney record, and go back-to-back in the nation’s second richest staying event. She would start the race unbackable favourite at $1.10, with Pedro’s finest ($10.00) and South Aussie Kalden Mayhem ($12.00) given the only chance to knock her off, after the two heats were conducted last week.
It’s seems fair to say the result of the race as known less than a second after boxrise, when the fawn bitch was the first to hit the ground, leading clearly and setting a frantic pace up front. Running past the winning post with a lap to go, she had already extended out a ten length margin, with a sectional of 15.45 and all waited in readiness of seeing something pretty special.
Off the back, and the margin was about ten lengths, with Hogmania holding second place. Pedro’s Finest was battling away in large pack with Kalden Mayhem spotting the leader around 20 lengths towards the tail – a bridge that appeared too big to cross.
Once the field had straightened for home, Miata’s strength was on full display, with the margin blowing out to over 14 lengths. The crowd present on course, as well as those watching around the nation on Sky, had seen the mighty bitch eclipse High Earner’s stakemoney record to become the most financially successful dog our sport has ever seen. The brilliant performance lasted 41.48 seconds, marginally outside her 41.30 record set last year in the same race.
Hogmania and Pedro’s Finest fought out the minor ends of the podium, with Hogmania for Greg Martin holding on for runner-up duties, while Pedro’s Finest ran a nice race in third for John Iwanyk.
As is well documented, the daughter of Bombastic Shiraz and Winsome Bluebird has now over $670,000 in the bank, with five Group one titles, and more track records that be counted on one-hand, including all three distances at Cannington.
She now travels back to Melbourne to contest the invitation-only Zoom Top, where the likes of Bell Haven, He Knows Uno, Destini Fireball and Thrilling Brat await. Miata will line-up in box four for the event next Saturday night, and will most likely start very short favourite once again, despite the big rise in class from the Galaxy final.
Once the buzz of seeing Miata demolish her rivals had simmered, it was time for the premier sprinting event in W.A, the Sky Racing Perth Cup, carrying $140,000 to the winner. Paul Stuart had already picked up another winner between the two big finals, with Military Power winning a Canning Stake with a strong performance.
However, despite Miata and Military Power, his night had only just begun, as young sprinter Dyna Nalin was about to win a very entertaining Perth Cup, and launch what could potentially be a very prosperous sprinting, and possibly staying, career.
Dawdling out of the four box, the 23-month old son of Ashom Bale and Tally Bale was facing an uphill battle, as race favourite Glen Gallon had stepped on the gas from box two, and local star Hot Irish trying to cross from the six box. However the speed of Harry Monelli from box eight, was enough for him to cut to the fence in the face of the field, checking Hot Irish and causing a ripple effect where the majority of the field was inconvenienced.
Harry Monelli still led down the back, with Grigorieva Bale showing the superior speed to quickly take over. Dyna Nalin had used the inside run to move into third, while Glen Gallon began a run from fourth place.
Grigorieva Bale looked the winner as the pack entered the straight again, but the race was about to get interesting. Dyna Nalin peeled off the rail and started making a dash, while Glen Gallon wasn’t done with either. Hot Irish defied his usual racing pattern to flash home and suddenly it was hard to know where to look. There was fifty metres of intense racing, with four dogs all putting in claims, however Dyna Nalin was the strongest of the four, whipping past Grigorieva Bale to claim the prize and give Paul Stuart and the Wheeler family one of the most successful nights ever seen.
Grigorieva Bale was game in defeat; going down by a length in 30.58, while Glen Gallon and Hot Irish dead-heated for third narrowly beaten. Harry Monellis on tired into fifth place, with Saving Bundles, Renegade Chief and Hello Goodbye never a chance after the first turn scuffle.
Dyna Nalin takes his record to 15 starts for twelve wins, two placings with a current unbeaten streak of nine. The way he finishes off his races and still posts excellent times (eg 30.21 run in Perth Cup heat) suggests a staying career may also suit.
Paul Stuart was interviewed post-race, describing Dyna Nalin’s win as very different to Miata’s, given where they are in their careers and given that Dyna Nalin wasn’t expected to even make the final. While it is unknown if Dyna Nalin will travel in the near future, one can’t help but think this is not the last time this fellow will be making headlines.
Meanwhile, Glen Gallon, Hot Irish and Renegade Chief will meet again next Saturday night in The Temlee at The Meadows. With different draws and a different style of track, the fortunes of these three chasers should improve rapidly.
What The Champs Tell Us About Being First-Up On A City Track
As most punters are well aware, backing a greyhound having its first start in the city is probably a long-term losing proposition, unless the animal you happen to pick has something above the ordinary to recommend it.
I don’t have specific statistics for the Sydney and Melbourne city circuits for the percentage of first-uppers who win to those who fail. I would imagine a few professional punters might have this information to hand, but there’s nowhere I’m aware of that a figure like this is readily available.
So, turning instead to the past and looking at some of the acknowledged greats of the sport and how they fared when they first competed in a race at a city course in either Sydney or Melbourne might give an idea of how tough it is to win first-up on a city course, no matter how good the greyhound eventually turns out to be.
Continue reading What The Champs Tell Us About Being First-Up On A City Track
Temlee, Rookie Rebel & Zoom Top Invitations Issued
A total of 59 greyhounds have been invited to compete in three Group 1 invitationals at The Meadows – including the Macro Meats Temlee, Rookie Rebel and Zoom Top on February 16 – to kick off the three-week Australian Cup Carnival, with a total of over $1 million dollars in prizemoney up for grabs.
The who’s who of greyhound stars (listed below) have been invited with trainers asked to show their interest in competing in the three Group 1 races, with the Macro Meats Temlee now worth $100,000 to the winner and the Rookie Rebel and Zoom Top giving chasers a chance for a $75,000 winner’s cheque.
The Australian Cup Carnival is the world’s biggest greyhound extravaganza, with over $1 million to be won over the famous three-week period (Feb 16, 23 and March 2). The Carnival includes the running of the Group 1 Maurice Blackburn Lawyers Australian Cup ($250,000 to-the-winner), the Group 1 Macro Meats Super Stayers ($100,000), the Group 1 Macro Meats Temlee ($100,000), the Group 1 Macro Meats Rookie Rebel ($75,000), the Group 1 Macro Meats Zoom Top ($75,000) and the Group 3 Cosmic Chief Vic Breeders for maidens ($25,000).
Continue reading Temlee, Rookie Rebel & Zoom Top Invitations Issued
Barcia Bale Looking To Emulate The Great Satan’s Legend
Graeme Bate is on record as suggesting his undefeated sprinter Barcia Bale reminds him very much of his former champion Kantarn Bale. So far, the comparison is spot on. After all, nine starts for nine wins is a rarity in Australian racing.
Indeed, I am aware of only 12 other greyhounds that have won at their first nine or more races. Only three of these are Victorians: Ima Turner, who won his first 13, in 1979; Satan’s Legend, who won his first 10, in 1977; and Welcome Stranger, a winner of his first nine, in 1989. The record holder for the most successive wins before tasting defeat is the former NSW sprinter Promises Free who won her first 14 on end between 1981 and 1982.
Of course, as I have consistently beaten the drum about this in the past, there is no central register of performances or database stretching back through the almost 90 years of mechanical hare racing in this country from which to draw information. So, there may well be more than 12 â€stars’ in the firmament of early success, but if there are then they are well hidden.
Continue reading Barcia Bale Looking To Emulate The Great Satan’s Legend
Unbeaten Barcia Bale Draws Box Three In $100,000 To The Winner Maturity Classic Final
The Graeme Bate-trained Barcia Bale will start a red-hot favourite to make it ten wins from as many starts in next Saturday night’s Group 1 Hudson Pacific Maturity Classic at The Meadows, worth $100,000 to the winner.
The son of Go Wild Teddy and Princess Bale remained unbeaten with a devastating 29.84 semi-final victory after giving main rival Ima Geisha Girl a start and a beating in an astounding display of speed. After a super 4.99 split by Ima Geisha Girl, Barcia Bale quickly ranged up and raced away down the back straight, stopping the second sectional timer at 17.60. From there, the Paul Wheeler-owned star made it nine Best of Night wins from as many starts, and will start a short-priced favourite after drawing box three in Saturday’s final.
Litter sister Desalle Bale looms as his main rival after drawing box one in the age-restricted classic, continuing her love affair at The Meadows with an all-the-way 30.05 win over Group 1 Peter Mosman finalist Odie For Now. The black chaser has now won six races on the trot, including four from four at The Meadows.
Continue reading Unbeaten Barcia Bale Draws Box Three In $100,000 To The Winner Maturity Classic Final
Australian Greyhound Racing Top Prizemoney Earning Records
The Australian prizemoney records have seen rapid changes in recent years with the push toward feature races now offering in excess of $350,000 prizemoney to the winner.
With the constant flux we offer a simple list of the Australian record prizemoney earning greyhounds that we will constantly update as it changes.
High Earner was the highest career prizemoney earner with $610,070 earned from 69 starts that reaped 33 wins and 21 places including 2 Group 1 Perth Cups, the 2011 Group 1 Temlee, the 2009 Queensland Derby, 2009 WA Derby, 2009 Vince Curry Memorial; a second in the 2009 Australian; and making finals of the 2009 Topgun, 2010 Adelaide Cup, 2010 Temlee, 2010 Australian Cup and 2011 Golden Easter Egg.
It took a Group 1 Temlee win for High Earner in February 2011 for him to break Rapid Journey’s long standing prizemoney record of $530,995, which had stood since 1998.
In February 2013 the current prize money record holder Miata won her 5th Group 1 and 40th career win in the Group 1 Galaxy at Cannington at her 46th start and took her prize money to a new Australian record of $671,508 with plenty of racing still ahead of her.
Australia’s Top Prizemoney Earning Greyhounds
| Ranking | Greyhound | Prizemoney | Race Record | Owner | Trainer | Last Raced |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Miata | $715,508 | 51:42-2-4 | Nicole Wheeler-Whye | Paul Stuart | 2013 |
| 2 | High Earner | $610,070 | 69:33-13-8 | Dave Robartson | Kelvyn Greenough | 2011 |
| 3 | El Grand Senor | $581,335 | 43:35-4-1 | Carolyne Jones | Carolyne Jones | 2011 |
| 4 | Radley Bale | $570,883 | 102:37-20-7 | Paul Wheeler | Graeme Bate | 2012 |
| 5 | Irma Bale | $551,366 | 83:35-23-6 | Paul Wheeler | Graeme Bate |  |
| 6 | Rapid Journey | $530,995 | 54:33-6-5 | Jane Carruthers | Jane Carruthers | 1998 |
| 7 | Dyna Tron | $519,753 | 61:31-7-6 | Paul Wheeler | Andrea Dailly | 2012 |
| 8 | El Galo | $519,380 | 71:44-13-6 | Dave Robartson | Jason Thompson | 2009 |
| 9 | Glen Gallon | $518,417 | 62:34-9-3 | Steve Williams | Tony Brett | |
| 10 | Bogie Leigh | $488,335 | 68:41-12-5 | Les Bein | Tony Brett | 2004 |
| 11 | Got A Moment | $477,626 | 35:15-6-4 | Diane Buxton | Jason Thompson | |
| 12 | He Knows Uno | $476,724 | 82:34-21-12 | Lillian Patterson | Mick Patterson | 2013 |
| 13 | Mantra Lad | $455,985 | 56:26-10-7 | Marty Hallinan | Graeme Jose | 2010 |
| 14 | Dashing Corsair | $455,665 | 124:57-16-14 | Paddy Fitch | Dwyer Lennon | 2011 |
| 15 | Cindeen Shelby | $443,895 | 55:32-9-3 | Ray Parkinson | Kel Greenough | 2010 |
| 16 | Betty’s Angel | $441,570 | 43:20-5-5 | Dianne Bartolo | Paul Bartolo | 2008 |
| 17 | Dyna Lachlan | $438,215 | 47:26-5-6 | Paul Wheeler | Andrea Dailly | 2010 |
| 18 | Paua To Burn | $434,705 | 58:28-7-6 | Steve White | Steve White | 2006 |
| 19 | Grigorieva Bale | $429,055 | 51:17-14-5 | Paul Wheeler | Andrea Dailly | |
| 20 | Slater | $419,565 | 58:28-7-6 | Robert Jackson | Darren Murray | 2008 |
| 21 | Brett Lee | $405,106 | 38:30-5-0 | Tony Lockett | Darren McDonald | 2001 |
| 22 | Spud Regis | $399,630 | 24:13-3-3 | Brian Treloar | Andrea Dailly | 2013 |
| 23 | Miss Sick | $395,345 | 100:30-28-5 | Pam Julien | Max Julien | 2010 |
| 24 | Tenthill Doll | $382,660 | 57:32-10-7 | Ray Richards | Harry Sarkis | 1997 |
| 25 | Don’t Knocka Him | $380,089 | 51:25-8-8 | Reg Kay | Jason Thompson | 2012 |
| 26 | Velocette | $379,650 | 65:26-11-3 | Ron McCullagh | Graeme Bate | 2009 |
| 27 | Blue Lorian | $375,738 | 57:32-10-7 | Peter Whye | Peter Whye | 2011 |
| 28 | Destini Fireball | $369,325 | 38:21-5-1 | Norm Rinaldi | Norm Rinaldi | |
| 29 | Oaks Road | $364,280 | 50:20-11-5 | Ed Kingswell | Mark Gatt | 2012 |
| 30 | Kantarn Bale | $357,850 | 77:44-1-57 | Paul Wheeler | Graeme Bate | 2002 |
| 31 | Bombastic Shiraz | $355,915 | 35:18-6-5 | Darren Cairns | Darren Cairns | 2003 |
| 32 | Flying Amy | $354,105 | 57:42-4-5 | Eric Tedford | Ron Ball | 1996 |
| 33 | Flashing Floods | $344,390 | 60:33-8-6 | Gerald Cunnold | Gerald Cunnold | 2007 |
| 34 | Arvo’s Junior | $325,420 | 93:34-11-18 | Kali Arvanitis | George Arvanitis | 2005 |
| 35 | Hot Irish | $321,460 | 74:39-14-8 | Damon Fardig | Ben Abercrombie | |
| 36 | Cosmic Rumble | $321,325 | 41:20-1-9 | Steve Kavanagh | Darren McDonald | 2010 |
| 37 | Sun Hero | $316,950 | 76:29-21-10 | David Chiu | Andrea Dailly | 2005 |
| 38 | Train A Journey | $316,040 | 68:30-10-6 | Steve Karlusik | John Galea | 2008 |
| 39 | David Bale | $310,625 | 73:22-18-11 | Paul Wheeler | Graeme Bate | 2012 |
| 40 | Trew Millions | $308,900 | 93:32-2-8 | Dennis Trewin | Tina Womann | 2009 |
| 41 | Carlisle Jack | $306,350 | 62:34-16-3 | Max Sanbrook | Bobby Douglas | 2002 |
| 42 | Closing Argument | $303,930 | 24:18-2-0 | Darren Murray | Cameron Taylor | 2006 |
| 43 | Shanlyn Prince | $299,815 | 62:24-10-6 | Robert Larsen | Darren McDonald | 2008 |
| 44 | Roanokee | $297,000 | 59:40-6-2 | Pat Dalton | Roger Green | 1998 |
| 45 | Excite Ability | $294,945 | 40:18-11-4 | Deborah Lowe | Len Poore | 2008 |
| 46 | Highly Blessed | $294,565 | 47:31-2-3 | Doug Ferremi | Lorraine Ferremi | 1992 |
| 47 | Go Wild Teddy | $294,347 | 43:30-6-1 | Mark Bell | Mark Bell | 2001 |
| 48 | El Brooklyn | $289,215 | 43:24-7-2 | Seona Hood | Jason Thompson | |
| 49 | Jarvis Bale | $286,341 | 109:19-29-28 | Paul Wheeler | Graeme Bate | 2011 |
| 50 | One Tree Hill | $280,235 | 83:20-24-11 | Lisa Lamb | Rob Britton | 2001 |
| 51 | Gunnadoo Magic | $278,355 | 70:27-17-4 | Ben Howe | Rob Britton | 2001 |
| 52 | Queen Lauryn | $277,185 | 48:28-7-4 | Steve Hawkins | Tony Brett | 2009 |
| 53 | Fedex | $275,670 | 79:27-10-7 | Barry Moss | Jason Thompson | 2010 |
| 54 | Amity Bale | $275,195 | 72:31-13-11 | Paul Wheeler | Graeme Bate | 2009 |
| 55 | Bobby Boucheau | $273,364 | 79:27-10-7 | Barry Moss | Angela Jackson | 2011 |
| 56 | Sandi’s Me Mum | $272,831 | 92:62-15-3 | Betty Lorrimar | Gerry O’Keefe | 1991 |
| 57 | Drill ‘Em | $272,525 | 40:16-9-3 | Neil Rowe | Dave Knocker | 2010 |
| 58 | Meticulous | $269,460 | 36:16-8-3 | Paul Westerveld | Mario Briganti | 2007 |
| 59 | Whisky Assassin | $266,410 | 44:27-5-2 | Terry Hines | Jason Thompson | 2005 |
| 60 | Kilty Lad | $263,510 | 44:27-5-2 | Joseph Patterson | Kelly Bravo | 2012 |
| 61 | Flash Of Light | $261,445 | 76:32-14-3 | Mark Delbridge | 2010 | |
| 62 | Mystic Apple | $258,435 | 72:27-14-3 | Val Awramenko | Val Awramenko | 2012 |
| 63 | Elektra | $255,570 | 101:29-25-15 | Phil Lenehan | Keith Harding | 2008 |
| 64 | Cintiarna | $255,180 | 38:19-6-2 | Sandra Collins | Sandra Collins | |
| 65 | Symmetry | $253,680 | 59:24-10-6 | Helen Ivers | Rob Britton | 2012 |
| 66 | Miss Grubb | $253,160 | 89:24-15-25 | Charlie Northfield | Glenda Dart | 2007 |
| 67 | Hallucinate | $252,881 | 38:23-5-1 | Tony Lockett | Darren McDonald | 2004 |
| 68 | Enry Walt | $252,260 | 66:23-14-6 | Gary Ennis | Gary Ennis | 2011 |
| 69 | Dana Beatrice | $251,325 | 65:28-12-9 | Wes McDonald | Rod McDonald | 2010 |
| 70 | Zara Zulu | $246,285 | 26:13-6-2 | Geoff Collins | Ros Hume | 2012 |
| 71 | Shereen Bale | $246,205 | 67:20-14-13 | Paul Wheeler | Graeme Bate | 2012 |
| 72 | Go Forever | $243,500 | 87:34-22-4 | Dennis Trewin | Tina Womann | 2006 |
| 73 | Classic Capri | $242,836 | 47:23-6-4 | Glen Rounds | Judy Hayley | 2002 |
| 74 | St. Pierre | $242,050 | 68:23-12-8 | Christopher Nutt | Debbie Cannan | 2011 |
| 75 | Proven Impala | $241,740 | 66:25-8-9 | Larissa Darragh | Joe Borg | |
| 76 | Vocal Enforcer | $241,025 | 76:33-15-16 | Pete & Rod Noden | Andrew McLaren | 2013 |
| 77 | Proven Nitro | $240,430 | 42:22-5-8 | Tony McGrath | Jason Thompson | |
| 78 | Miss Spicy | $240,045 | 30:19-5-1 | Sarah Pringle | Troy Murray | 2006 |
| 79 | Lektra Jay | $239,550 | 99:28-15-16 | Phil Lenehan | Andrea Dailly | 2012 |
| 80 | Octane Show | $236,835 | 74:31-10-9 | Tyrone Whittington | Darren McDonald | 2011 |
| 81 | Miss Brook | $235,830 | 87:38-20-11 | Paul Felgate | Paul Felgate | 2008 |
| 82 | Modern Assassin | $234,206 | 78:40-12-5 | Mary Mugavin-Brown | Mary Mugavin-Brown | 2003 |
| 83 | Suellen Bale | $233,058 | 120:53-12-13 | Paul Wheeler | Graeme Bate | 2001 |
| 84 | Regal Thyme | $232,795 | 57:23-9-3 | Graham Long | Graham Long | 2009 |
| 85 | Elite Blue Size | $230,886 | 54:33-7-3 | Julie Edmondson | Reg Kay | 2011 |
| 86 | Lord Ducal | $230,715 | 43:11-8-3 | Jenny Roberts | Jon Roberts | 2011 |
| 87 | Fallen Zorro | $229,375 | 52:20-11-9 | Colin Garrity | Shane Whitney | 2009 |
| 88 | Classy Customer | $229,370 | 90:26-16-14 | Bobby Douglas | Jason Mackay | 2006 |
| 89 | Size Can Matter | $229,325 | 44:20-9-5 | Julie Edmondson | Reg Kay | 2009 |
| 90 | Tasman Queen | $229,175 | 63:21-11-6 | Bill Butler | Rob Britton | 2008 |
| 91 | Jaimandy Coops | $225,195 | 56:23-5-6 | Bernie Donohue | Paul Donohue | 2008 |
| 92 | Bell Haven | $224,475 | 53:23-13-2 | Cannan Milner (Syn) | Edward Medhurst | |
| 93 | Rewind | $223,870 | 92:56-19-6 | Maurie Strickland | Maurie Strickland | |
| 94 | Miss Hot Gossip | $222,895 | 66:34-12-3 | Dave Robartson | Jason Thompson | 2008 |
| 95 | Chinatown Lad | $222,730 | 47:21-11-6 | Katrina Gregory | Shane Whitney | 2009 |
| 96 | Mandagery Man | $222,660 | 55:27-12-8 | Frank Goldsack | Sam Sultana | 2008 |
| 97 | Don Chendo | $222,290 | 86:26-15-6 | Joy Davis | Len Ketalaar | 2012 |
| 98 | Pedrosa | $221,670 | 50:30-8-2 | Paul Stuart | Paul Stuart | 2011 |
| 99 | Reggemite | $220,285 | 51:34-3-2 | Gary Weston | Linda Britton | 1999 |
| 100 | Allen Harper | $219,105 | 31:18-2-3 | Paul Wheeler | Graeme Bate | 2012 |
| 101 | So Seductive | $218,905 | 59:20-14-7 | Tyson Barton | Kel Greenough | 2011 |
| 102 | Desalle Bale | $218,380 | 54:23-10-4 | Paul Wheeler | Graeme Bate | |
| 103 | Lilley Criminal | $217,988 | 62:24-8-9 | Allen Williams | Anthony Azzopardi | 2009 |
| 104 | Mint Magic | $214,770 | 37:25-5-1 | Ray Watson | Ray Watson | 2000 |
| 105 | Edie Beauchamp | $214,300 | 75:27-14-6 | Ken Wright | Mary Wright | 2006 |
| 106 | Cosmic Chief | $212,640 | 55:23-9-7 | Peter Brown | Darren Brown | 2011 |
| 107 | Surgeon | $212,250 | 18:13-10 | Michael Johnston | Darren McDonald | 2008 |
| 108 | Next Top Model | $210,950 | 47:20-8-6 | John McGeary | Jason Thompson | 2010 |
| 109 | Tonneli Bale | $210,537 | 67:22-8-11 | Paul Wheeler | Graeme Bate | 2012 |
| 110 | Arvo’s Express | $209,595 | 115:34-20-18 | Kali Arvanitis | Tina Womann | 2001 |
| 111 | Shimaguni | $209,448 | 42:21-7-3 | David Gleeson | Andrea Dailly | 2012 |
| 112 | Prankster | $209,430 | 73:19-8-13 | Richard Lynch | Rob Britton | 2011 |
| 113 | Birthday Boy | $208,383 | 102:26-29-13 | Cliff Justin | Steve Elsum | 2011 |
| 114 | Trewly Special | $205,405 | 83:22-13-16 | Dennis Trewin | Tina Womann | 2006 |
| 115 | Silver Saul | $205,405 | 79:36-17-9 | Angela Modra | Angela Modra | 2003 |
| 116 | Did I Entertain | $200,475 | 99:30-12-17 | Robert Arnold | Robert Arnold | 2011 |
| 117 | Bentley Babe | $200,254 | 62:28-9-8 | Phil Ruddal | Peter Dapiran | 2002 |
| 118 | Miss Elly Mint | $199,540 | 66:44-7-5 | Ray Watson | Robert Smith | 2009 |
| 119 | Slick Lee | $196,005 | 113:21-30-24 | Keith Pedrana | Keith Pedrana | 2012 |
– Still actively racing
*Updated 10.51am 24th May 2013
Radley Bale Awarded Australia’s Best Race For February 2012
The AGRA’s Run of the Month for February 2012 has been awarded to Radley Bale after his extraordinary performance to win the Group 1 Temlee at the Meadows on February18th. Radley Bale almost fell in the early part of the race but he picked himself up and in his usual hard chasing style kept coming, getting up to win in the shadows of the post.
Radley Bale’s win in the Group 1 Temlee [525m] was an emotional one for his trainer Graeme Bate, as he came from sixth and made up five lengths to run down super-strong pair Mystic Apple and Glen Gallon in a performance that had to be seen to be believed. Bate has won virtually every major greyhound race imaginable on Australian soil, however the pure courage shown by his four-year-old sprinter, who stumbled in the early stages of the race, drew enormous emotion from the Lara trainer, which was refreshing to see.
“That was one of the best races I’ve ever seen,” said Bate after Radley Bale snared a $75,000 first prize for he and owner Paul Wheeler. “He almost fell early on and I thought his chances were gone. Then I saw him make up some ground and in the home straight I was screaming to the point where I nearly lost my voice. He’s so courageous.”
Continue reading Radley Bale Awarded Australia’s Best Race For February 2012
The Temlee Proves A Point
The best referees and umpires are the ones you never notice. The best tracks are the ones that let the dogs do their own thing. Another maxim of Greyhound Racing is that whenever two dogs are competing closely they will never run the time they would achieve on their own.
It’s necessary to write about the Temlee, last Saturday’s Group 1 sprint at The Meadows, mostly because of the nonsense that has been written elsewhere. The “best race ever seen”, it has been called; Radley Bale was “incredible” and showed “pure courage”.
This is fairytale stuff. The facts are that it was an ordinary race run by good dogs at an ordinary track.
Continue reading The Temlee Proves A Point
Stars Draw Awkwardly In 2012 Group 1 Australian Cup Heats
Some of the best sprinters in the country have been allocated tricky box draws in heats of the Group 1 Rover Mowers Australian Cup (525 metres) in a bumper night of racing at The Meadows this Saturday night.
Victors from this weekend’s eight heats will progress to the Group 1 classic, this year worth $175,000 to the winner for the first time in the race’s 54-year history.
Queensland’s Glen Gallon – backing up after a third-placed effort in last week’s Group 1 Macro Meats Temlee – has drawn box six in the first heat, facing speedy rivals Smoke Home (box one) and Zara Zulu (box three) in a great start to the evening.
Continue reading Stars Draw Awkwardly In 2012 Group 1 Australian Cup Heats
Radley Bale Wins Temlee & Takes Career Prizemoney To Over $570,000
Four year-old star Radley Bale become the third highest prizemoney earner in Australian history after a sensational last stride victory in the Group 1 Macro Meats Temlee over 525 metres at The Meadows on Saturday night.
The son of Big Daddy Cool and Minkara Bale showed his amazing will to win, running down noted powerhouse chasers Mystic Apple and Glen Gallon to win his second Group race in five days, pushing his prizemoney to $570,528 – less than $40,000 behind Australia’s leading prizemoney champion High Earner.
In an amazing sign of longevity, Radley Bale lined up for his 98th race start on Saturday, in a career spanning well over two years. His latest 30.16 win was one of the best of his career, according to master traine Graeme Bate.
Continue reading Radley Bale Wins Temlee & Takes Career Prizemoney To Over $570,000
The Two “R’s” Steal The Tote Racing Centre Show
The two “R’s”, Radley Bale and Rewind, dominated proceedings at the Tote Racing Centre on Monday night and are now being set for bigger and better things.
The Victorian champ Radley Bale ran his rivals ragged in the $57,000 Tasracing Group 2 Launceston Cup and will now contest the Group 1 Temlee to be conducted at The Meadows on Saturday night and then the Australian Cup heats.
The Tassie champ Rewind, who won the Launceston Cup Consolation, may be given a chance to take on the best in the land in the Golden Easter Egg to be conducted at Wentworth Park.
Continue reading The Two “R’s” Steal The Tote Racing Centre Show
Dyna Tron & Radley Bale Duo Aiming For Half A Million In Prizemoney In Group 1 Temlee
Duo Dyna Tron and Radley Bale – owned by the Wheeler family – will push their prizemoney to over $500,000 if either is victorious in the Group 1 Macro Meats Temlee over 525 metres at The Meadows this Saturday night.
Currently, only four greyhounds have managed to crack the half million dollar mark (High Earner, El Grand Senor, Rapid Journey and El Galo) in Australia, a number likely to change over the three-week Australian Cup Carnival at The Meadows.
Radley Bale – trained by Graeme Bate – is less than $6000 away from the magical mark after taking out the Group 2 Launceston Cup on Monday night. The son of Big Daddy Cool and Minkara Bale has drawn favourably in box two in Saturday’s Group 1 invitation-only event, lining up for his 98th race start.
Continue reading Dyna Tron & Radley Bale Duo Aiming For Half A Million In Prizemoney In Group 1 Temlee
Miata Close To Another Record In Meadows 600m Solo Trial
The brilliant Miata rubber-stamped her short-priced favouritism for the Group 2 Macro Meats Zoom Top this Saturday night with a near-record trial over 600 metres at The Meadows.
The daughter of Bombastic Shiraz and Winsome Bluebird recorded splits of 9.04 and 21.92 before running home in a super 12.18, stopping the clock at 34.10 – just .03 outside the 600-metre track record held by Nellie Noodles.
The Meadows Manager Marg Long was on hand to watch the brilliant chaser have her first look at The Meadows circuit.
Continue reading Miata Close To Another Record In Meadows 600m Solo Trial
Box Draws Complete For Group Greyhound Racing Extravaganza At The Meadows – Temlee, Rookie Rebel, Zoom Top Fields
The Meadows will host one of the most anticipated nights of Greyhound Racing next Saturday as box draws were finalised for the Group 1 Temlee ($75,000 to the winner), Group 2 Rookie Rebel ($40,000) and Group 2 Zoom Top ($40,000).
Sponsored by Macro Meats, the three Group races will herald the start of the Australian Cup Carnival, with over $800,000 in prizemoney given away over the three-week festival of racing.
As always, the box draws have thrown up some interesting scenarios.
Continue reading Box Draws Complete For Group Greyhound Racing Extravaganza At The Meadows – Temlee, Rookie Rebel, Zoom Top Fields
Fields Finalised For Group 1 Temlee, Group 2 Rookie Rebel & Group 2 Zoom Top
Fields for the Group 1 Temlee, Group 2 Rookie Rebel and the Group 2 Zoom Top – all sponsored by Macro Meats – have been confirmed, setting up what promises to be an extraordinary night’s racing at The Meadows on February 18.
The panel – made up of representatives from The Meadows and the GRV Grading department – cut the original group of 66 greyhounds down to create three mouth-watering clashes over all distances at the Broadmeadows circuit, with over $200,000 in prizemoney on offer on the night.
The contenders from the three invitation-only finals have amassed a combined prizemoney total of almost $3.9 million, won 28 Group races and broken a whopping 13 track records, underlining the remarkable talent on show for the start of the three-week Australian Cup Carnival.
Continue reading Fields Finalised For Group 1 Temlee, Group 2 Rookie Rebel & Group 2 Zoom Top
Final Acceptances In For Temlee, Rookie Rebel & Zoom Top
Final acceptances for the Group 1 Macro Meats Temlee (525m), Group 2 Rookie Rebel (600m) and Group 2 Zoom Top (725m) have been confirmed, with the country’s best chasers ready to face off at The Meadows on February 18 in one of the best nights of Greyhound Racing across the world.
A total of 56 of the 66 original invitees have accepted an invitation (see below) to run in one of the three invitation-only races on the night should they been chosen in the final fields. A large number of the 10 greyhounds who didn’t accept were because of injury, including the retirement of Group 1 winning chaser Kilty Lad.
The selection panel – made up of representatives from The Meadows and the GRV grading department – will meet tomorrow to confirm the eight finalists (plus two reserves) for each race. The fields for the three finals will then be revealed on Monday, February 6, at 7.30pm. The box draw will take place on track at The Meadows on February 11.
Continue reading Final Acceptances In For Temlee, Rookie Rebel & Zoom Top
Box 1 Proves A Godsend For Jason Thompson In Silver Chief Final
Jason Thompson has won his fifth Group 1 AJS Corporation Silver Chief as outsider Godsend ($15.50) strode to a 29.93 win to claim the $75,000 first prize at The Meadows in a fantastic start to the 2012 greyhound season.
The son of Bombastic Shiraz and Sensation Lee began well from box one and skipped away down the back to set up a race-winning lead (splits of 5.06 and 17.74), eventually running out a five and a quarter length winner over the fast-finishing Glen Gallon and the Heston Bale, with both greyhounds finding trouble in running.
Owned by Serg Buccilli, Godsend joined Thompson’s four former Silver Chief winners, including Light Of Fire (1994), Awesome Assassin (1996), Ben’s Fury (2005) and Fedex (2009) on the Group 1 honour roll, which also includes past champions such as Brett Lee and Chariot Supreme.
Continue reading Box 1 Proves A Godsend For Jason Thompson In Silver Chief Final
Can Kilty Lad Make History?
He’s drawn the alley, he has the class credentials; has he got what it takes to annex a third Group One event?
That’s the question being asked of Kilty Lad for the 30th July 2011 final of the Maturity Classic at the Meadows.
The fact he has drawn beautifully in box one, statistically a huge advantage in any major race over 525 metres at the Meadows, means Kilty Lad is so obviously the one to beat. Yet he faces a potentially tough task in beating history.
Since its inception in 1970 -six years after the inaugural running of the Silver Chief Classic- the Maturity Classic has been taken out by some pretty good greyhounds. Between 1970 and 1998 it was run over 511 metres at Olympic Park. Some of the winners include Temlee (1974), Satan’s Legend (1978), Pharaoh’s Mask (1986), New Tears (1987), Hay Dinney (1988), and Northern Legend (1995). It’s worth mentioning that two of those winners, namely Pharaoh’s Mask and Northern Legend, went on to great heights over the longer journey.
After the move to the Meadows, greyhounds such as Brett Lee (2001), Hall’s Northern (2003), Hallucinate (2004), Train A Journey (2006) and Paddy’s Flame (2008) have taken out the race.
This Maturity Classic is unique in the sense that since the move to the Meadows and the 525 metres distance, it is the first time the race has hosted two Silver Chief finalists: namely Kilty Lad and Stefan Bale. Kilty Lad, of course, won the Silver Chief in January (from box five) while Stefan Bale was injured in finishing last and was out of action for over four months.
The only other dual finalists since 2003 have been Hotline Hero (2003), Rock Cool Daddy (2005 Maturity; 2006 Silver Chief), Run’s House (2007), and Sheoak Ian (2009 Maturity; 2010 Silver Chief).
Of these, only Run’s House has been successful, winning the 2007 Maturity after running fifth in the Silver Chief. Hotline Hero was fourth in the Silver Chief and last in the Maturity; Rock Cool Daddy ran last in both events; and Sheoak Ian was sixth in the Maturity and fourth in the Silver Chief.
With 21 wins in 40 starts overall, eight successes from 11 outings at the Meadows, and four victories in five races out of box one, Kilty Lad rates extremely highly, but it’s worth noting that this year’s Maturity field is arguably one of the best ever assembled in its long history.
It is the easily the most experienced in terms of race starts since the 2008 final. This year’s finalists have collectively raced 205 times. In 2008, the year Paddy’s Flame was successful, the field had raced a collective 214 times. This figure, though, was inflated by Queenslander Make You Happy, who had started on 64 occasions. This year, Kilty Lad is the veteran, with 40 previous starts.
This year’s finalists boast one of the most amazing strike rates I’ve ever seen for a major final: 101 victories for a 49.26 percent average. When El Grand Senor won last year’s Maturity, the strike rate was 83 wins from 198 races, a very healthy 41.91 percent average. The 2009 field had a 40 percent win average (54 from 135 collective starts) while the 2008 race was a comparatively weak 37.85 percent (81 wins from 214 outings).
Since 1970, only two greyhounds have won both the Silver Chief and Maturity Classic. The first of these was the sensational speed machine Satan’s Legend. He annexed the 1977 Silver Chief from box one in July and then, in February 1978 he exited box seven to take the Maturity by almost seven lengths. Satan’s Legend went on to take out the Bi-Annual Classic (now the Peter Mosman) at Harold Park in track and world record time before eventually finishing his career with 18 wins from just 27 starts.
The second dual winner was Enfield. He exited box four to win the 1990 Silver Chief and seven months later, on 3 June 1991, he again had box four when he took out the Maturity by almost three lengths. That was his 26th start and although he had been favourite for the Silver Chief, he was a $6.00 chance for the Maturity following patchy form. The Maturity success was his 13th victory. Enfield went on to race on 19 more occasions for just six wins.
Put simply, Kilty Lad faces a tough task, in historical terms, if he is to take out this year’s Maturity Classic.
High Earner Heads AGRA Greyhound Rankings
The AGRA greyhound rankings have been released up until March 2011 and on-again / off-again stud dog High Earner has been ranked the number 1 dog in the country.
High Earner has been ranked with 188 points by the AGRA, largely courtesy of his Group 1 Perth Cup win, and invitation-only Group 1 Temlee win.
And despite being officially re-retired to stud with studmaster Paul Westerveld immediately after the finishing second in the Group 1 Australian Cup final, High Earner has been returned to Kelvyn Greenough’s kennels to contest the heats of this weekend’s Group 1 Golden Easter Egg heats.
Continue reading High Earner Heads AGRA Greyhound Rankings
Australian Cup – Who Will Be Crowned Champ In 2011?
Tonight the greyhound world will turn its attention to The Meadows for the running of the 53rd Group 1 MTD Australian Cup, worth $150,000 to the winner.
The first running of the Australian Cup – back in 1958 – saw happy connections of odds-on favourite Rookie Rebel collect an 800-pound first prize.
Today, the anticipation grows as pre-post favourite High Earner aims to become the first greyhound to crack the $700,000 prizemoney barrier if successful in Saturday’s night’s Group 1 classic.
Continue reading Australian Cup – Who Will Be Crowned Champ In 2011?
High Earner Is Australia’s Greyhound Of The Month For February 2011
AGRA’s Greyhound of the Month for February 2011 is Superstar Queensland sprinter High Earner. In February not only did High Earner win two Group 1 sprint events but he also became the highest stake winner in the history of Australian Greyhound Racing when he broke Rapid Journey’s 12 year old record of $530, 995.
In a memorable month High Earner also became the first sprinter to win two Perth Cup’s. He scoring his first Group 1 success in last year’s final for his owners and trainer Dave and Christine Robartson only to go back to back this year for leading Victorian mentor Kel Greenough. In a carbon copy of last year’s win he jumped straight to the front and gave the classy field a lesson in power sprinting.
Two weeks later in the Group 1 Temlee invitational jumping from box seven, High Earner sped to the early lead and gave nothing else a chance, streaking clear to win in a Best of Night 29.73, after sensational splits of 5.08 and 17.66. The brilliant black chaser finished three and a half lengths clear of Perfect Fancy while reserve Up And Away was a further length and a quarter away in third.
Continue reading High Earner Is Australia’s Greyhound Of The Month For February 2011
Can High Earner Crack The $700,000 Prizemoney Mark In The Australian Cup?
The brilliant High Earner can further extend his Australian prizemoney record with victory in the Group 1 MTD Australian Cup over 525 metres at The Meadows this Saturday night.
The son of Collision and Double Guess strode into one of Australia’s greatest races after a Best of Night 29.83 heat win on Saturday, and will start as favourite from box seven in the $150,000-to-the-winner final. If victorious, the Christine Robartson-owned star will push his career winnings to $713,795 – a whopping $182,800 clear of Rapid Journey’s decade long prizemoney benchmark.
After a stint at stud between April and September last year, High Earner returned to racing, joining the successful kennels of Kel Greenough with amazing results. The black chaser has won two Group 1 races this year, taking out his second Perth Cup in January and the Temlee at The Meadows two starts back.
Continue reading Can High Earner Crack The $700,000 Prizemoney Mark In The Australian Cup?
