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Post by BVADMIN on May 19, 2019 0:05:20 GMT
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Post by BVADMIN on May 20, 2019 17:18:25 GMT
Rising Brandy plus Ballymac duo Brayden and Syd miss the Classic.RISING BRANDY, a semi-finalist at Towcester last year, has been withdrawn (lame, 12.20pm Monday) from this year's Nottingham Classic.
Trainer Matt Dartnall said: "We've been battling with his shoulder injury right since last year's competition.
"We thought we had it right, but it's not, and there was no option but to withdraw him."
Reserve BLYTHE BASIL (rails seed) will now run in Heat 6.
The track earlier reported two more non-runners with both BALLYMAC BRAYDEN and BALLYMAC SYD withdrawn after coming off sore from gallops.
The official withdrawal time for both was 11.30am on Monday, May 20.
Reserves MOVE OVER PADRE (rails seed) will now run in Heat 19 and SHARPYS JIMMY (middle seed) will now run in Heat 13.
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Post by BVADMIN on May 21, 2019 5:56:44 GMT
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Post by SALFORD GIRL on May 21, 2019 22:26:45 GMT
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Post by BVADMIN on May 22, 2019 18:55:41 GMT
ON Wednesday morning (11.40am) Peter Cronin withdrew Coolavanny About from trap four in Saturday's heat 18. John Wainwright's Ballydoyle Misty comes in as reserve
MARTINSTOWN BAND was withdrawn (lame) from the Derby at 10am on Tuesday. His place in Friday's heat eight goes to BOJANGLES, a middle seed.
The son of Head Bound had clocked a modest 30.14sec (+20) in a 500m trial before racing at Nottingham last Friday and Chris Akers, his trainer, said: “I think it may be a recurrence of a monkey muscle injury he initially picked up when he got a bump in his race with King Turbo in early April.
“He came back with a cracking sprint trial then another decent but it was clear on Friday he was feeling something.
“Obviously it's very disappointing but I'm hopeful it's nothing too serious. He's a really good dog, his wins showed that and I thought he ran a great race behind King Turbo after the trouble too – there aren't many who are sent off odds-on to beat him.”
His owner Kieran Hickey sportingly tweeted: "You always need some luck in the dog game but not for us this time, gutted for Chris and Vicky that have done wonders with him. Good luck to everyone in the Derby."
Also withdrawn on Tuesday was ALIEN SEA (lame, 10.25) from heat 32 on Saturday and PLAZA ROICEAD (in season, 12.15) from heat four.
FIELDVIEW WONDER (wide) replaces Alien Sea, with MERCURY RIO (rails) going in place of Plaza Rociead.
FASTEST in trials before racing at Nottingham on Monday (May 20) was Dan Brabon's Trade Fudge, who clocked 29.49sec (going 0.30sec fast) when winning a spin (5.00 sectional) over the 500m Derby course. He goes from trap six in Saturday's heat 21.
Next quickest was John Mullins' Hero To Zero. He went round in 29.51sec (5.12sec up, going now 0.40sec fast) and will appear on Friday, trap six in heat 15.
Kevin Boon's Bockos Tiger (5.06 split) beat kennelmate Headford Maurice (5.13) a neck in 29.63sec . The former runs in heat 13 on Friday, where he has trap three. Headford Maurice earlier runs from six in heat five
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Post by SALFORD GIRL on May 24, 2019 10:41:05 GMT
FIRST ROUND PREVIEW – FRIDAY 24/5/19 – BY MARK PIERREPONT TAKEN FROM THE GREYHOUND STAR WEBSITE — MAY 24, 2019 greyhoundstar.co.uk/first-round-preview-friday-mark-pierrepont-2/ Heat 1 of the Star Sports, ARC and LPS English Greyhound Derby looks there for the taking for the Seamus Cahill trained Sporting Dave. Though likely to be sent off a strong odds on favourite, he looks very likely to justify those short odds. His form stands up to the closest scrutiny and a level break from last years Sussex Cup Final winner should be all that’s required to see him quickly set sail for victory. Mark Wallis’s Antigua Sands trialled well enough here a couple of weeks ago and though since going down to a narrow defeat at Sheffield behind kennel mate Aayamza Bonnie, she was noted making strong late ground up before pulling clear to the pick up and can run on for second.
Heat betting: 8-15 Sporting Dave, 4-1 Antigua Sands, 12-1 Itsur Mate, 16-1 Savana Awesome, 16-1 Sunray Minor, 20-1 Pennys Lunar
Heat 2 is a very open looking affair where any of the six could lay reasonable claims. The selection would have to come down on Laurence Tuffin’s local runner Kilara Tain Bo who looks well drawn in one if trapping in decent style. His last time out victory in 29.96 (+20) would likely be good enough to take this race if turning the first bend in front. Peter Harnden’s local star Salacres Vincent reached the quarter finals of the Derby at Towcester last year. He continues to run well but will have to be on his toes early to clear the pace of the Brendan Matthews Irish raider Ribchester, who is drawn on his immediate inside, and is not likely to give up much in the way of room on his way around the opening two bends.
Heat betting: 10-3 Ribchester, 7-2 Raise The Stakes, Kilara Tain Bo, 9-2 Ela Juliet, 11-2 Salacres Vincent, 8-1 Hitatchi Hoban
Heat 3 will likely see Patrick Janssens’ Droopys Biker head into traps as a relatively strong favourite. However, with good early pace to his left in the shape of Droopys Trapper and Plaza Lep, he’ll have to play his cards right around the opening two bends. John Mullins improving British Bred star Saving Sonic is hardly devoid of early pace either and looks set to clear the inside pairing soon enough. In what looks a tricky enough race to call on paper, take a chance with Saving Sonic who at the time of writing is available at odds of 14/1. Meet Me, drawn in trap 1, has plenty of pace but has his own way of thinking, easing at the bends before showing plenty of pace on the straights. It does have to be noted that he didn’t go clear to the pick up in his last race, when having the chance to do so. That said, he’s the type who it wouldn’t be a huge shock to see keep on qualifying throughout the competition.
Heat betting:13-8 Droopys Biker, 11-4 Droopys Trapper, 9-2 Volcanic Reef, 7-1 Meet Me, 12-1 Plaza Lep, 14-1 Saving Sonic
Heat 4 will see Graham Hollands Totos Park sent off a strong favourite despite the fact he lacks a trial around the venue. Totos has until last week been engaged in the Irish Cesarewitch at Mullingar, finishing third in the final beaten 7 1/2 lengths behind Skywalker Logan. His form is top class though and he looks drawn to perfection on the outside of four dogs who will all be looking for a position nearer the rail. So long as he doesn’t totally blow the first two bends, he can put himself into position A by the second turn and power on for a emphatic victory. Killinan Fury, for local trainer Alec Stone, is a solid performer around here, stays well and similarly to the selection is well drawn. He can run on for second and land the forecast.
Heat betting: 6-4 Totos Park, 5-1 Taydal Boy, 6-1 Killinan Fury, 5-1 Slaheny Star, 8-1 Lostrigg Barney, 25-1 Bayview Gerry
Heat 5 sees one of Ireland’s leading hopes for this years Derby go to traps in the shape of Clonbrien Prince trained by Graham Holland. After trialling well he ran well to win a trialstakes event on his first competitive start at this venue. Sent off a strong odds on 4/9 favourite to follow up that initial success on his second start, he disappointed somewhat when beaten 3 1/2 lengths into second by Quantum Leap. His back straight pace was there for all to see though, likely to have improved for what was another look around, he can lay handy at worst by the second turn before opening up. Peter Harnden’s local hope Forest Mike comes into the competition proper with a 100% 3:3 record in trialstakes. His times might not be as flashy as some, but he possesses good early pace and is a difficult dog to pass if gaining the lead. Kevin Boon’s Headford Maurice always runs his race, stays well and should claim a qualifying spot from his draw out wide in trap six.
Heat betting: 8-15 Clonbrien Prince,11-2 Honour Turbo, 7-1 Forest Mike, 12-1 Headford Maurice, 20-1 Colston Havana, Sunset Ranger
Heat 6 on paper is a competitive affair with Ballymac Osby, Good Champ and King Sheeran all contesting favouritism at the head of the market. Osby is a talented sort for last years Derby winning trainer Kevin Hutton. At 38 kilo though he’s a huge dog who likes time to get into stride. Drawn in trap 2, Osby will have to be at his sharpest to clear the early pace immediately to his left in the shape of Gerry Holian’s Irish raider Lemon Shane. Good Champ trialled well and has improvement still to come, but the selection is with Liz and Rab McNair’s King Sheeran who looks plotted up in stripes and a reproduction of his last time out trial of 29.55 (+10) should be good enough given the make up of this race.
Heat betting:2-1 Ballymac Osby, 9-4 King Sheeran, 7-2 Good Champ, 5-1 Lemon Shane, 33-1 Colston Hero, 40-1 Blythe Basil
Heat 7 Seaglass Tiger can ping out and make all for Patrick Janssens. Runner up in the Ladbrokes Puppy Derby Final at Monmore earlier this year, Tiger possesses excellent trapping ability and early pace and he can quickly take command of the rail from his main rival Paganini Show. That rival can stick on for the forecast spot, whilst Kevin Boon’s Leemount Venus can qualify in third. Venus is inconsistent at the traps, but doesn’t have to lead in her races to qualify.
Heat betting:15-8 Paganini Show, 3-1 Seaglass Tiger, 13-2 Leemount Venus, 7-1 Man Twenty One, 10-1 Onedin Paradise, 14-1 Farloe Falcon
Heat 8 can provide the Irish with a winner courtesy of Graham Holland’s Blue East. He should be much better for his initial couple of looks around the track and can show superior all round pace to land the spoils. Wildfire Jimmy is well drawn against the rail and can fill the forecast spot.
Heat betting: 6-4 Blue East, 3-1 Wildfire Jimmy, 9-2 Emers Cookie, 8-1 Bubbly Bonanza, 20-1 Bojangles, Megatone
Heat 9 is likely to see two Irish raiders in the shape of Graham Holland’s Ballydoyle Valor and Pat Buckley’s Droopys Davy dominate the market. The selection goes with the former who ran well to pick up Brinkleys Poet near the line on what was his first competitive start around this venue. Likely to improve for what was just his second look at the track , he can make the inside draw on his chief rival count. Davy should have no problems following him around and filling the forecast position.
Heat betting: 2-1 Droopys Davy, 5-2 Ballydoyle Valor, 9-2 Nadurra Dutch, 6-1 Antigua Romeo, 8-1 Bockos Rory, 16-1 Sharpys Junior
Heat 10 can go the way of Dave Mullin’s Windmill Rover who at the time of writing is available at double figure odds of 10/1. He finished third on his last look around this venue , beaten 2 3/4 lengths behind Salacres Punch. Even a 5.04 sectional on that occasion was not enough to see him lead however for a dog best off the front , he never gave up at any stage. A winner last time out in 23.85 (+10) at home track Romford, he can ping the lids here and make the most of a reasonable make up to go around in front for trainer Dave Mullins. Hero To Zero, drawn in trap 6, can follow him home for a Mullins brothers forecast, whilst Peter Harnden’s Salacres Barley, a 2018 Puppy Classic finalist around this track, can run on for the third and final qualifying slot.
Heat betting: 2-1 Newinn Missile, 5-2 Hero To Zero, 11-2 Distant Rain, 8-1 Adis Abebba, 10-1 Salacres Barley, Windmill Rover
Heat 11 looks like being a relatively straightforward task for Pat Buckley’s Irish raider Burgess Bucks. Ideally drawn in trap fivw , he possesses wicked early pace and a reproduction of his 4.94 split from his last trial when posting an overall time of 29.51 (normal) should be good enough here. Kelly Macari’s North East raider Pinpoint Rocco can hold his pitch from trap 1 to qualify in second whilst Cooneen Jack, for Jimmy Fenwick, can take third.
Heat betting: 1-2 Burgess Bucks, 6-1 Pinpoint Rocco, 7-1 Cooneen Jack, 14-1 Busters Bullet, 20-1 Dower Rory, 25-1 Sharpys Rocket
Heat 12 can go the way of Worseforwear for Ireland’s Peter Cronin, though this is race where stakes should be kept to a minimum. Diane Henry’s Savana Volt has gears to burn, though his record of 0 from 5 starts so far to date has to be a concern. Volt can chase home the selection to fill the forecast spot, whilst Roxholme Glory who possesses excellent back straight pace but has a tricky draw to contend with, can claim the final qualifying spot for Hayley And The Glory Boys.
Heat betting:11-4 Roxholme Glory, 7-2 Worseforwear, 4-1 Da Head Hunter, Savana Volt, 7-1 Piemans Star, 14-1 Wichita
Heat 13 can provide Kevin Boon with a winner in the shape of Bockos Tiger. This heat can be settled by the first turn , with Tigers chief rivals also wanting to dominate early. The vote goes with Tiger due to him being ideally housed in white and he will be extremely difficult to clear by the bend with a level start. That can prove enough. Nice Charmer and Conors Blake can take the qualifying positions in second and third.
Heat betting: 13-8 Nice Charmer, 9-4 Bockos Tiger, 5-1 Conors Blake, 7-1 Baldoin, 12-1 Noelles Phelpso 25-1 Sharpys Jimmy
Heat 14 can go the way of Patrick Janssens Bockos Doomie who can dominate from start to finish from his draw in trap two. A winner of 3 of his 4 career starts to dat , including 2 from 2 here on UK soil at Hove , he was a late entry into the Derby but can justify the faith shown in him by Patrick and connections. Anna Thompson’s Haggswood River is perfectly housed in her preferred trap 1. She stays every inch of this 500m trip and much further. If Doomie does get away to the anticipated start, then the path will be clear on the inside for River to make the best of her way home in behind in second place.
Heat betting: 8-11 Bockos Doomie, 4-1 Lemon Ronald, 8-1 Distant Sailor, 10-1 Haggswood River, 16-1 Droopys State, 25-1 Dantes Inferno
Heat 15 can go the way of Angela Harrison’s Droopys Expert. Well drawn to ping from trap 3 , he can make every post a winning one. Liam Dowling brings over a very interesting type in the shape of Akelawre . He can follow Expert home for the forecast and should be much better for what will be his second look around the venue going forward. Swan Style has improved out of all recognition for trainer Kevin Boon just lately and can take the third and final qualifying spot for the second round.
Heat betting: 1-1 Droopys Expert, 11-4 Akelawre, 5-1 Swan Style, 14-1 Ballymac Devon, 16-1 Knockduff Declan, 40-1 Hagglers Hawk
Heat 16 is arguably the race of the evening with 2018 Derby winner Dorotas Wildcat lining up against Brinkleys Poet, 2018 Gymcrack winner and Irish sensation Wolfe. The selection posted a 5.00 dead sectional in his first 500m trial around this circuit. Despite the devastating early pace possessed by The Wildcat and Poet, that sort of pace will be difficult to clear and if Wolfe does hold his pitch, it’s unlikely that his two chief rivals will be coming from behind. This is a race where connections of the three leading fancies for the race will simply be glad to qualify. Bellebob Zuri , Savana Tuftys and Born To Achieve will all be big double figure prices drawn on the outside of the field. However it would not be a surprise to see at least one of them claim a qualifying slot. (Read trainer Graham Holland’s view on Wolfe’s chances)
Heat betting:8-11 Dorotas Wildcat, 3-1 Brinkleys Poet, 7-2 Wolfe, 40-1 Savana Tuftys, 50-1 Bellebob Zuri, Born To Achieve
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Post by BVADMIN on May 24, 2019 22:53:47 GMT
FRIDAY 24/5/19::
Race by race reports from heats 1-16 of the Derby
Going +20 heats 1-5, +30 6-10 (after bowser), +20 after
Heat 1
1 Sporting Dave T1 29.71sec 2 Antigua Sands T5 neck 3 Itsur Mate T6 one length
Odds-on Sporting Dave got off to a winning start in the opening heat but was made to work hard by Antigua Sands, who had slipped clear at the bend. Crowded at the first and third, Sporting Dave got to the front rounding the last turn, Antigua Sands kept on to be only beaten a neck. Itsur Mate safely qualified in third.
Winning trainer Seamus Cahill said: “He missed it really and didn’t seem to be in a good position at the second, when he was cut off at the third, you were settling for second but then he battled through. It’s a good start, a win and he’s in the next round.”
Nic Jeal, who wife Amanda owns Antigua Sands, said: “It proved a six hour journey for us and we got here with two minutes to spare! We’re very happy with that, she has a lot of improvement to come too.”
Heat 2
1 Ribchester T5 29.98sec 2 Kilara Tain Bo T1 one length 3 Raise The Stakes T4 half
Ribchester took charge of this at the first bend but had broken slowly then showed exceptional pace up. Kilara Tain Bo kept on for second, railing, though moved wide off the last. Raise The Stakes, crowded at the bend, finished well.
Plunkett Devlin, son of owner trainer Brendan, said: “This was his first four bend race in nine months and he can break better - he’s 18.50sec at Shelbourne which is good. He’s a brother to Jaytee Taylor and, as he gets to know the track better, will hopefully stay better too.”
Heat 3
1 Droopys Trapper T5 29.60sec 2 Plaza Lep T4 three lengths 3 Volcanic Reef T2 head
This turned into a battle between Plaza Lep and Droopys Trapper with the latter asserting at the third. Volcanic Reef took the vital third spot, just ahead of Meet Me.
Angela Harrison, the winning trainer, said: “It was a good race between the pair and he had to battle. He then took his chance nicely.”
Droopys Biker was left here and ran off at the bend.
Heat 4
1 Slaheny Star T 4 29.89sec 2 Totos Park T5 half length 3 Bayview Gerry T3 four and threequarters
Slaheny Star got first run, leading early after fast starting Bayview Gerry cut in, bumping Taydal Boy. Ireland’s Totos Park turned second after going very wide at the bend, running on to go down half a length. He will improve for his first sight of the track.
Gus Nunneley, kennelhand to winning trainer Derek Knight, said: “This is a dog who’s won over two, four and six bends - so we know he’s versatile. Despite nearly six hours in the car, he showed the best early to lead and is gutsy.”
Nicki Holland said of Totos Park: “He will be much better for that and is in the draw on Monday.”
Heat 5
1 Clonbrien Prince T2 29.70sec 2 Honour Turbo T1 five and three quarters 3 Headford Maurice T6 length and a quarter
Honour Turbo, Clonbrien Prince and Forest Mike went to the bend together, Forest Mike getting baulked wide, leaving the other pair to dispute it to the third, where Clonbrien Prince took charge and drew clear. The others were all slow away.
Nicki Holland, wife of trainer Graham, said: “It felt a bit scary going into the first, Honour Turbo was a big dog on his inside! Anyway, he’s through and ran it better.”
Forest Mike also hit the inside fence at the third but was reported fine afterwards. Sunset Ranger dropped out on the second turn.
Heat 6
1 Lemon Shane T1 29.59sec 2 Ballymac Osby T2 two and a half 3 King Sheeran T6 neck
This saw a tremendous tussle between Lemon Shane and King Sheeran with the lead changing hands several times before Lemon Shane kicked on at the last turn as King Sheeran tired on what was his comeback race. Ballymac Osby kept on for third.
Winning trainer Ger Holian said: “The money was down, it was such a great battle. He was a Kirby finalist last year and can improve further.”
Heat 7
1 Paganini Show T1 30.02sec 2 Onedin Paradise T5 head 3 Leemount Venus T6 neck
This was a bunched race, the time is meaningless. Paganini Star, a July pup, battled to a gallant victory. Seaglass Tiger, in contention to the third, was baulked and tired from there. Leemount Venus showed a lot of pace, drifting very wide on the first and last bends. Onedin Paradise ran on for second.
Winning trainer Pat Buckley said: “He’s through, that’s what counts, after getting held up several times. Seaglass Tiger got on his inside at the first - it was a rough race.”
Heat 8
1 Emers Cookie T4 29.72sec 2 Wildfire Jimmy T1 three and a half 3 Blue East T3 length and threequarters
Emers Cookie flew out, race over. Wildfire Jimmy plugged on for second after getting baulked on leaving the traps. Bleu East showed plenty of pace, recovering well after seeming to stumble out of the second.
Winning trainer Paul Meek said: “She loves it here and consistently breaks well. That was fantastic, she seems to really break from four; my pick would be trap two.”
Heat 9
1 Droopys Davy T6 29.46sec (fastest of night) 2 Antigua Romeo T5 two lengths 3 Bockos Rory T3 seven lengths
Another cracker, Antigua Romeo bowled along in front, Droopys Davy, keeping very wide, pounced on the run in. Bockos Rory took third as the remainder were involved in a bumping match.
It was a double for winning trainer Buckley, who said: “I thought ours would make all so the five surprised me. Davy ran a big race, he runs this place well and is one of the few wides!”
Nic Jeal said of his runner-up: “That was again a thriller. Romeo really does need to lead and it took a good dog and a fast time to pick him up.”
Heat 10
1 Adis Abebba T1 29.71sec 2 Hero To Zero T6 four and threequarters 3 Windmill Rover T5 three and a half
A Scottish winner here as Adis Abebba was soon clear. Hero To Zero stayed on well after a second bend bump. The others were all hampered - Newinn Missile and Windmill Rover colliding at the traps.
Winning trainer Gary Ferguson said: “This is a young dog who had a bit of a setback but is now right so can improve further. This was his first race for us; he’s put it together well.”
Heat 11
1 Cooneen Jack T3 29.70sec 2 Busters Bullet T4 four lengths 3 Dower Rory T2 length and a half
Cooneen Jack was soon clear, holding his positions well as both Burgess Bucks and Pinpoint Rocco went up fast. The latter got an awful run. It was generally messy behind with Busters Bullet and Dower Rory coming through to qualify.
Winning trainer Jimmy Fenwick said of his Scottish Derby runner-up: “I really fancied him. He’s very well, likes it here and being a big, strong dog he can only get better.”
Burgess Bucks was later reported to have sustained a tendon injury.
Heat 12
1 Roxholme Glory T4 29.62sec 2 Worseforwear T5 four lengths 3 Savana Volt T1 theequarters
Roxhome Glory made all here, chopping off fast up Piemans Star who ran off with severe bunching resulting. Worseforwear was badly hampered there and ran an eye-catching run to get back for second. Savana Volt took third after a slow start.
Winning trainer Hayley Keightley said: “This was his second race for us, we’re still getting to know him but he can start and showed real pace. He tired a bit coming home but can go even better.”
Heat 13
1 Nice Charmer T4 29.96sec 2 Conors Blake T5 four and a quarter 3 Bockos Tiger T3 four and threequarters
Nice Charmer was crowded at the start, but quickly shrugged that off to lead early and pulled clear of trouble behind, Conors Blake and Bockos Tiger were both hampered but recovered to qualify. Noelles Phelpso, after breaking well, lost his action at the second and the others ran into him.
Nicki Holland said of the winner: “He’s classy, but is also a real summer dog who likes the sun. He’s well named being a lovely charmer but is a proper railer and did well from a poor draw.”
Heat 14
1 Lemon Ronald T5 29.61sec 2 Bockos Doomie T2 neck 3 Droopys State
A fantastic buckle with pup Bockos Doomie seizing control at the bend but Lemon Ronald relentlessly closed to get up on the outside by a neck, giving Jimmy Fenwick a double. Droopys State was third.
Fenwick said: “This is living the dream, we’ve two ‘Derby dogs’, they’ve both run well and won. This is definitely the place to stage the Derby because it’s central . We can all get here and the track is immaculate. Ronald is a big dog with a big heart. He’s going to have come from behind but he likes it here.”
Heat 15
1 Swan Style T4 29.87sec 2 Knockduff Declan T5 threequarters 3 Droopys Expert T3 length and a quarter
Swan Style gamely battled to victory here, picking up Knockduff Declan close home. There was general bunching with Droopys Expert recovering with exceptional back straight speed before getting chopped off again at the third. He scrambled through by half a length.
Liam Aspin, kennelhand to Kevin Boon: “He’s coming along nicely, four of our five have qualified tonight so we’re very pleased. The draw in four was poor, but he coped. We prepared him for the Derby with several trials here and he likes it, but is a railer.”
Heat 16
1 Wolfe T1 29.54sec 2 Dorotas Wildcat T2 length and a half 3 Born To Achieve T6 seven and a half
Wolfe used his trap one draw to full effect, edging into a narrow lead at bend, with Dorotas Wildcat battling away to the third where Wolfe went on - to justify the Racing Post’s main headline tip from Jonathan Kay. Brinkleys Poet broke slowly, then got a troubled run. 50-1 local Born To Achieve snatched third.
Nicki Holland said: “Both dogs [Wolfe and Wildcat] ran stormers, it’s been a good night’s racing with a treble for us. Wolfe’s a lovely boy, a great dog who had the perfect draw and drives the bend exceptionally well with tremendous balance.”
Kevin Hutton, trainer of the defending champion, said: “It was a great race between the pair, I have to be pleased with ours. Had the draw been reversed, we’d have won. He battled on and that’s pleasing, he needed the run and will improve.”
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Post by BVADMIN on May 25, 2019 7:11:11 GMT
FIRST ROUND PREVIEW – SATURDAY 25/5/19 – BY MARK PIERREPONT TAKEN FROM THE GREYHOUND STAR WEBSITE — MAY 25, 2019 Heat 17 see’s the 2018 Derby runner up, Droopys Verve running from trap 2. There is no doubting the class of Verve, he is a Rolls Royce of a greyhound who has proven he enjoys the challenge that Nottingham as a circuit provides. It’s questionable though does he quite possess the same amount of early pace as he did last year? My view is that he doesn’t yet he is absolutely surrounded by runners who both trap well and have early. Indeed Ballymac Miscula and Desperado Dan drawn in traps 3 and 4 respectively, not only have early, but will both be looking to move across to the rail at the earliest available opportunity. Punters seems to be hesitant too, with Verve having drifted from odds-on early in the week to slight odds against on Saturday early prices. Verve’s class should see him qualify, but for a dog likely to be crowded early, we must look elsewhere for the likely winner. King Lennon, who has also drifted slightly (from 3-1)has impressed me greatly during his trials at Nottingham. He’s been gaining good experience of the track and has improved with each run. He does lack a yard of early pace, but he is one of the strongest greyhounds in the competition in the second half and if he can hold his pitch until the second bend, I expect Lennon to power on home from that point onward’s. Verve can escape the crowding on the inside and use his class to qualify in second whilst Slippy Cian can take the third and final qualifying slot.
Heat betting: 11-10 Droopys Verve, 3-1 Slippy Cian, 7-2 King Lennon, 12-1 Desperado Dan, 16-1 Ballymac Miscula, 33-1 Wildfire Legend
Heat 18 and Priceless Blake, trained by Paul Hennessy, can have the Irish flags waving. Blake is much better than the bare form of his first look 29.66 (+40) trial last week when finishing beaten 1 1/4 lengths by Jaytee Taylor. He has shortened in the betting from 7-4 earlier in the week. From what looks a good draw against the rail, he can hold his pitch, turn in front and that should be enough. Oi Oi Upenalty running from trap 5 for Hayley Keightley can catch pigeons and can run on for second. Kingsbrook Glynn is a bit of a dark dog for Kevin Hutton, he has little in the way of early pace but from the third bend home he fairly motors. He can claim the third and final qualifying place.
Heat betting: 6-4 Pricless Blake, 3-1 Kingsbrook Glyn, 10-3 Oi Oi Upenalty, 8-1 Front Edge, 10-1 Killieford Banjo, 40-1 Ballydoyle Misty
Heat 19 sees Roxholme Butt stepping back in trip to contest the Derby and though he has a tricky enough looking draw to contend with, I expect the race could be set up for him and he can come through late to score. Liberty Hawk is well placed to lead on the rail if trapping, he’s in the capable hands of ex Bolton racing manager Alan Bellis, he’s been getting plenty of experience around Nottingham in recent weeks and he can put that to good use to qualify. Shaneboy Paschal can run on to take the third qualifying place for trainer Kevin Boon. On the outside of the track are two bitches that I really like. Loher Honey performs with credit on a regular basis around Nottingham but will need something similar to her last time out sectional of 498 to get to the front here, if she doesn’t, she simply isn’t qualifying. Wider still in trap 6 is a bitch I really like in the shape of Patrick Godfrey’s Arthur Noodle. I cannot really understand the middle seeding on this bitch, to me she’s only ever shown herself as being a railer, maybe a trap three runner at worst. Given the amount of rails seeded greyhounds in the competition, this bitch is likely to find herself drawn much wider than is ideal on each and every time she runs, unless she takes an absolute flyer, she’s in serious trouble of clearing her rivals from what looks a perilous draw.
Heat betting: 9-4 Roxholme Butt, 5-2 Arthur Noodle, 9-2 Liberty Hawk, 6-1 Loher Honey, 7-1 Shaneboy Paschal, 40-1 Move Over Padre
Heat 20 and Droopys Nadal can make every post a winning one from what looks a good draw in the most open betting race of the event so far. Nadal had always shown a good amount of early pace for Angela Harrision, though connections always felt that he would improve as he matured and that has been well founded. Showing a lot more stamina during his recent Scottish Derby campaign, reaching the final and far from disgraced in fourth place, he’s no longer a ‘one trick pony’ and he can prove that again here. Badminton Jet and Antigua Vows can fill the two remaining qualifying positions.
Heat betting: 7-2 Antigua Vows, Badminton Jet, Forest Alan, 4-1 Droopys Nadal, 11-2 Maries Darkie, 16-1 Deanridge Ashton
Heat 21 and a race that contains electric early pace from top to bottom. Seaglass Phantom is a dog that possesses massive pace, but has been visibly easing at the bends when in company and this has proven to be his downfall on more than one occasion since he destroyed a high class Juvenile field at Sheffield earlier this year. He could make the draw pay, but with so much pace in the race, it would take a brave man to bet him with any confidence. Queen Beyonce is coming back to her best after a lay-off. She’s also been trapping much more consistently in trials than previously, that should serve as a warning to all. This bitch could go a very long way in this Derby. The selection though is with Liam Dowlings Irish raider Ballymac Anton. Recording 29.41 (+20) off the back of a 4.99 split on what was his first and so far only look at Nottingham recently was some effort. He can squeeze his way around the bend in front and hold off the persistent challenge of Beyonce with Daniel Brabon’s well drawn Trade Fudge taking third.
Heat betting: 15-8 Seaglass Phantom, 9-4 Ballymac Anton, 11-2 Queen Beyonce, 6-1 Trade Fudge, 10-1 Gettin Up, 50-1 Kilmessan Puma
Heat 22 is a tricky affair in which selecting the winner is no easy task. Ballymac Tas is a classy bitch for Liam Dowling and will be aiming to make it a quick fire double for the Irish trainer if Anton has obliged in the previous race. She isn’t guaranteed the clearest of passages though with the under rated and early paced Swift Jim to her immediate left. Jaytee Taylor has shortened in the betting this week and is likely to start favourite. But he too has masses of early pace to clear on his inside, not only in the shape of Quantum Leap to his immediate left, but in the race as a whole. This really is a race to watch, though the token selection goes with Jim due to the draw. Tas and Taylor can qualify.
Heat betting: 6-4 Jaytee Taylor, 5-2 Ballymac Tas, 9-2 Swift Jim, 6-1 Sidaz Jet, 8-1 Quantum Leap, 16-1 Deadly Storm
Heat 23 and Skywalker Logan, an Irish greyhound superstar who recently won the Irish Cesarewitch at Mullingar can emerge victorious on his UK debut. Logan recorded a sensational 29.27 (+20) on what was his first and only look at the track so far last week in a trial. He has shortened in the betting this week. Under race conditions, such a clear run won’t be always guaranteed but he’s a class act. Early prices have him just this side of odds against, however it’s difficult to see him going off anything other than odds on at the track. Holdem Zidane, a credit to connections and a multiple category one finalist never knows when he’s beat, he can claim second with Graham Hollands Romeo Rumble in third.
Heat betting: 5-4 Skywalker Logan, 7-2 King Idol, 9-2 Holdem Zidane, 10-1 Romeo Rumble, Ballymac Reds, 14-1 Swift Sabbath
Heat 24 can go the way of Patrick Janssens Lenson Whelan who has shortened a quarter of a point in the betting. A semi finalist in the Con and Annie Kirby Memorial recently, he has trialled well since joining his new kennel. A 2977 (normal) trial on the 9th May advertises his pace well and with Ballydoyle Frank to his immediate inside, he has no excuses for not taking command of the inside immediately. Ballydoyle Frank can run on strongly for second whilst Droopys Nirvana looks well placed on the wide outside to take third.
Heat betting: 6-4 Lenson Whelan, 3-1 Ballydoyle Frank, 6-1 Droopys Nirvana, 13-2 Rockmount Ozzy, 12-1 Pond Ricardo, Stoneparkwarrior
Heat 25 sees a belated Derby debut for King Turbo and he can land this race in style. Bramble Milburn can set the early fractions from his trap 5 draw for Steven Anderson and he can hold on to qualify, but I expect a comfortable success for Turbo. Formidable is a pacy sort for Diane Henry and though he’s likely to be denied the clear lead he’d desire, he can still take the third and final qualifying slot.
Heat betting: 4-6 King Turbo, 7-2 Formidable, 13-2 Jelly Flood, 7-1 Bramble Milburn, 25-1 Pond Osteria, 33-1 Comeonyoubees
Heat 26 is yet another hot race but it is with Magical Bale whom I’m siding. Bale looks well drawn against the rail and if coming away in his usual fashion he looks sure to be extremely tough to beat. He’s down as the kennel second string for this Derby in the eyes of many, but not myself. He has the ability to win from the front or behind, he is extremely well balanced for a dog of his size and runs a bend as well as any dog in training. He’s capable of producing a time much faster than his 29.56 (+20) trial, that should serve as a big warning to his rivals in this heat. If he needed any help at all it will surely be granted with Master Reed likely to take an immediate step off from his draw in trap 2. Originally a wide seed for much of his career, connections have now decided upon a rails seeding for the greyhound. Having watched near enough every race this greyhound has competed in, I’m not sure I can fully agree with that assessment. Bale looks plotted for victory whilst King Dylan and Geelo Blissful can join him in the draw for the second round.
Heat betting: 4-5 Magical Bale, 7-2 King Dylan, 5-1 Geelo Blissful, 10-1 Burgess Doc, 20-1 Slaneyside Sylvy, 25-1 Master Reed
Heat 27 can go the way of Harry Williams North East raider Pond Adonis. One of the strongest dogs in the competition, he is destined for a career over six bends. He will have to play his cards right around the opening two bends, however drawn in his preferred red, he is perfectly placed to do so and can prove too strong in the latter stages. Clonbrien Swift and King Cash can take the two remaining qualifying spaces whilst given the nature of the draw, recent Scottish Derby Champion Braveheart Bobby could be a shock casualty at the first hurdle.
Heat betting: 9-4 Clonbrien Swift, 11-4 Braveheart Bobby, 4-1 King Cash, 9-2 Pond Adonis, 12-1 Innocent Times, Jacks Tornado
Heat 28 can see the kennel’s first string Roxholme Jim lead home Dorotas Woo Hoo and land a forecast for Hayley Keightley. Jim is a young improving greyhound, already a Steel City Cup finalist, who is now developing a nice touch of early pace. The make up of tonight’s race is far from ideal, but if he can box clever he can set sail for victory from the first bend onwards whilst Woo Hoo, who carries some battle scars from the peak of his career, would then be booked in for a clear passage on his outside. Bubbly Cougar is a strong running type and can fill the third place slot.
Heat betting: 7-4 Roxholme Jim, 5-2 Dorotas Woo Hoo, 6-1 Affane Buck, Craigland Jack, 10-1 Payyaway Kane, 12-1 Bubbly Cougar
Heat 29 see’s Mark Robinson’s 2018 Irish Derby Champion Ballyanne Sim head into traps. I wasn’t too impressed with his 480m trial around Nottingham however and though likely to improve, I’m prepared to take him on with Gerry Holian’s Doona Buck who showed lightning early pace when recording 29.71 (+10) off the back of a 4.97 split in his latest trial. Cushie Jet and Lightfoot King can qualify and second and third.
Heat betting: 5-2 Ballyanne Sim, 4-1 Cushie Jet, 9-2 Doona Buck, Lightfoot King, 13-2 Uncle Wexford, 14-1 Martinstown Hope
Heat 30 should see Peter Cronin’s Lemon Express dominate from the outset and in this particular race that should be enough. King Diamond isn’t the strongest runner in Liz and Rab McNair’s team but he can follow him around in second to qualify whilst Jill Llewellin’s local Nidderdale Lark can qualify in third.
Heat betting: 8-11 Lemon Express, 7-1 Kind Diamond, Nidderdale Lark, 8-1 Boylesports Boom, Deanridge Kane, 20-1 Colston Pearl
Heat 31 can go to Peter Harnden’s big priced local hope Salacres Punch. This is a big step up in class for this stunning looking fawn dog and he will find tonight’s opposition a different proposition to that which he faced when winning two recent trial stakes. There aren’t many dogs faster to the third bend in this competition however if this dog traps and that will be a negative to the chances of a few in this field if he does so. Supporters will be looking over their shoulders on the run for home but Punch can hang on in there from the fast finishing Droopys Gold and Heathlawn River.
Heat betting: 6-4 Boylesports Xtra, 5-2 Droopys Gold, 6-1 Sparta Master, 8-1 Heathlawn River, Macaroon Cruz, 10-1 Salacres Punch
Heat 32 should go to the Graham Holland trained and Len Ponder owned Lenson Blinder. He didn’t immediately look too well suited to this Nottingham circuit but he’s improved with each look. There probably wouldn’t be any improvement needed upon his run when finishing second behind Droopys Expert in a recent trial stake, however if any was forthcoming, he could simply run away with this final heat of the first round. Panther can chase him home for second whilst Pat Rosney’s Newinn Banger looks set to tread his usual path around the outside and can qualify in third.
Heat betting: 1-2 Lenson Blinder, 3-1 Panther, 10-1 Newinn Banger, 14-1 Bull Run Button, 25-1 Hometown Hero, 33-1 Fieldview Wonder
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Post by BVADMIN on May 26, 2019 0:09:53 GMT
29.05sec Logan track record on a memorable night
Second Round draw 1pm on Monday
Seeding can be changed up until the third round draw
Seedings under review: Roxholme Jim, request from connection to consider switching to rails (from middle)
Headford Maurice under review whether middle (from wide)
Lenson Whelan under review whether to go middle (from rails)
Paganini Show remains under review whether to go middle (from rails) but been decided to leave as rails in next round.
SATURDAY
Going: +30 races 1-6
Bowser after race 6 +20 7-11
+10 12 onwards
Bowser after race 12
Heat 17
1 Desperado Dan T4 29.65sec 2 Ballymac Miscula T3 two and a half 3 Droopys Verve T2 two lengths
Droopys Verve was badly bumped at the start as Ballymac Miscula started well but turned sharp left. She then followed the leader Desperado Dan round, who was soon clear for Patrick Janssens. ‘Des’, a 10-1 turn-up,is the Coronation Cup winner, 575m Romford, so he wasn’t going to get caught. Droopys Verve gallantly ran on late to scramble past Wildfire Legend. Slippy Cian and King Lennon never got going, hampering each other at the bend.
Janssens said: “Look at his card, that’s now 34 races, 18 wins and 7 seconds. It means he’s game but he’s not ‘just’ a 575 dog, he did the fastest time of the year over 515 at Hove and he’s only two and a half - exactly the right age.”
Kim Billingham said of Ballymac Miscula “Ours and Verve were simply drawn the wrong way around, but she battled; this was his first race back after a break.”
Angela Harrison said: “Verve had to work really hard, his class got him through.”
Heat 18 1 Front Edge T3 29.77sec 2 Priceless Blake T1 one lengths 3 Kingsbrook Glyn T6 four and a quarter
Front Edge (8-1) made all, moving wide early before cutting the bend and chopping off Priceless Blake, who then checked wide, Oi Oi Upenality and Kingsbrook were both bumped wide, the latter recovering really well to get third. The others were very slow away.
It was a second open win for owner trainer Kevin Proctor, who also grades at Harlow. He said: “We won a heat of the Monmore Puppy Derby, now this. I’ve owned dogs for years but decided to take out an owner trainer licence for fun, it’s fantastic! We were a bit surprised to win, as third seemed more realistic.”
Heat 19
1 Liberty Hawk T1 29.73sec 2 Arthur Noodle T6 three lengths 3 Roxholme Butt T4 half a length
The field bunched at the first and Liberty Hawk, trap one and railing closely, kicked clear, race over. Arthur Noodle, crowded at the start and first, took second. Roxholme Butt, bumped at the bend, ran well to qualify in third.
Leigh-based owner trainer Alan Bellis was so happy. 50 years in the game, he was once racing and general manager at Bolton. “We’ve all had a bit on, winning a heat of THE Derby . . . this is the proudest moment of my life . . . after getting married!”
A surprised Mark Keightley said of Roxhome Butt: “That’s the best I’ve ever seen him run coming from behind.”
Heat 20
1 Droopys Nadal T4 29.32 (4.88sec sectional) 2 Badminton Jet T3 three and a half 3 Forest Alan T5 one lengh
Droopys Nadal flew out and made all, moving wide early, then chopping off Badminton Jet at the third. The latter showed good pace, railing nicely before getting crowded and checked at the third. Forest Alan, bumped at the first bend, ran on really well to just get third.
Angela Harrison, trainer of the winner, said: “He has been moving off, but handled it better tonight. He’s still young and improving all the time, he’s very well. We’re delighted.”
Heat 21
1 Queen Beyonce T3 29.27sec 2 Seaglass Phantom T1 two and three quarters 3 Ballymac Anton T2 length and three quarters
Queen Beyonce took control of this early, going soon clear to a sparkling 29.27sec, she was chased home in processional style by Seaglass Phantom and Ballymac Anton.
Rab McNair, husband of trainer Liz, said: “We got some seasonal fat off her (down 0.4kgs at kennelling) and she has started tonight. Everything went well, this is a fast bitch and a railer - which is what you need around here.”
Heat 22 1 Jaytee Taylor T6 29.75sec 2 Swift Jim T1 two and a half lengths 3 Ballymac Tas T2 length and a half
Amid general first bend bunching, trap one Swift Jim took advantage to lead to the third before favourite Jaytee Taylor switched on the overdrive. Taylor had held his position well on the opening bends and looks the sort certain to improve. Ballymac Tas rallied to catch young pup Sidaz Jet by half a length and go through.
Kevin Hennessy, son of trainer Paul, said: “This is his second race since September so we’re delighted. I closed my eyes at the bend and he now need to keep getting lucky there, but also trapping better - otherwise he will end up in no man’s land. This is a small, handy dog but remember went off favourite for the Irish Derby final.”
Heat 23 1 Skywalker Logan T2 29.05sec track record 2 Holdem Zidane T4 six lengths 3 King Idol T3 two and three quarters
The race after the bowser went round saw Skywalker Logan blew his rivals away with a track record romp. He drew clear out of the second bend and was wildly cheered by a big crowd who knew they were witnessing something special.
Trainer Pat Guilfoyle said: “When he came away, I knew he was going to do a run and he drove a lovely first bend. This is a very relaxed dog, it’s a massively proud moment but there is a long way to go and this can be a game of snakes and ladders - there’s always a snake ahead! But he’s in his prime, we’ve brought him along nice and steady. I’m delighted for his owner Ray Patterson.” He was travelling straight home, catching the 2.30am ferry from Holyhead.
Lofty [Martin Chapman] of Star Sports said: “Our 5-2 the track record going was not our brightest idea. It’s cost us £10,000 but congratulations to the punters and the winner - he looked a million dollars afterwards and is a proper dog.”
Mark Pierrepont, who was at the Star Derby preview, was among many there who had a bet there on the record getting beaten. “The anguished look on Ben [Keith’s] face as he paid out made it feel twice as good. . . thank you Ben.”
Heat 24 1 Lenson Whelan T2 29.78sec 2 Droopys Nirvana T6 three and threequarter 3 Stonepark Warrior T5 head
Lenson Whelan moved wide and baulked with Rockmount Ozzy at the start, then was crowded and led first, pulling clear of bunching behind. There was a late battle for second with Droopys Nirvana getting up.
Patrick Janssens said: “This is only his second 500 round here and he will come for this, he handled himself well.” Joint owner Len Ponder added; “He’s got guts.”
Heat 25 1 King Turbo T2 29.76sec 2 Jelly Flood T4 four and a half 3 Pink Osteria T1 neck
King Turbo went up fast but moved middle at the bend which allowed Pink Osteria to nip through on the inside. Then Turbo turned the tables at the third, this time railing and barged Pink Osteria out of the way, kicking clear for a good win. Jelly Flood, who lacked early, got a lucky run at the first bend as the others all bunched - he than ran on well to take second.
Brendan Keogh, part of the winning ownership syndicate, said: “Turbo is a great dog but seemed not to handle the first quite so well. He then and to battle and made the race his . . . in proper style.”
Heat 26 1 King Dylan T4 29.87sec 2 Magical Bale T1 length and a quarter 3 Master Reed T2 head
A messy, bunched race and meaningless time. Geelo Blissful was desperately unlucky, getting struck into from behind by King Dylan when leading out of the second. Magical Bale went up well, but was baulked and checked by Geelo Blissful then suddenly found himself left in front out of the second. King Dylan however battled back to make it a treble on the night for team McNair. Master Reed grabbed third as Geelo Blissful missed out.
Rab McNair said: “Dylan is a good strong, wee dog, he’s determined and proved that there. I’m pleased for all the owners.”
Heat 27 1 Jacks Tornado T2 29.69sec 2 Braveheart Bobby T3 neck (4.88sec sectional) 3 Pond Adonis T1 half
Braveheart Bobby, well backed with Star, set off in front, recording the joint fastest 4.88 sectional but tied up coming home and Jacks Tornado pulled off a 14-1 surprise. He had turned second and took his chance. Pond Adonis ran on well for third. The outside runners were all baulked at the first.
Peter Cronin, winning trainer, said: “I knew he’d get there! Ours stays 575 and, vitally, turned second and got a run at the leader. It’s a tough track and a great Derby.”
Heat 28 1 Roxholme Jim T5 29.97sec 2 Dorotas Woo Hoo T6 two and a quarter 3 Payyaway Kane T4 neck
Craigland Jack led here but the field bunched badly at the third and Roxholme Jim forced his way to the front. It proved a forecast for Hayley Keightley as Dorotas Woo Hoo ran on for second after a slow start. Payyaway King was third.
Hayley Keightley said: “It proved a messy race but Jim wanted it. Woo Hoo was brilliant but needs to start better. Jim is a handsome dog with a will to win. He’s my dark horse.”
Heat 29 1 Ballyanne Sim T2 29.82sec 2 Uncle Wexford T3 four lengths 3 Martinstown Hope T6 length and a quarter
A forecast for Mark Robinson which proved a dream start for the team behind Irish Derby champ Ballyanne Sim. Crowded early, he went up fast and took control at the bend. Doona Buck checked off very wide from one, clobbering Cushie Jet and Lightfoot King. Uncle Wexford and Martinstown Hope separately crowded each other with the former taking second.
Trainer Mark Robinson said: “It’s been a long day, we were on the 8am boat this morning and are aiming for the 2.30am one back. He showed nice pace into the bend, he’s a cool and relaxed traveller, we’re pleased they both ran so well.”
Eamon Cleary, Ballyanne Sim’s owner, grinned: “The trip only took it out of the both of us! The dogs are happy.”
Heat 30 1 Lemon Express T6 29.90sec 2 Boylesports Boom four and a half lengths 3 King Diamond three and three quarters
Lemon Express only broke moderately, but went up fast and drew clear at the bend, keeping middle to wide. Boylesports Boom broke but was beaten for pace. King Diamond moved wide at the first then stayed on for third. The others were all involved in bunching.
Peter Cronin, the winning trainer was completing a double: “He runs this well and can break better, It’s a good run up for him, he’s a nice, calm little dog with very little done; trap six will suit and he can improve.”
Heat 31 1 Boylesports Xtra T3 29.62sec 2 Macaroon Cruz T2 threequarters 3 Droopys Gold T5 seven and a quarter
Bang all over. Boylesports Xtra made all, though he was bustled up close home by Macaroon Cruz who came with a wet sail. Droopys Gold, involved in severe first bend bunching, ran gallantly to take third.
“He’s very professional,” said Kevin Hennessy, delighted with the double. “That’s his game, out and gone with sensational pace up. I’m delighted he saw it through tonight.”
Heat 32 1 Lenson Blinder T3 29.46sec 2 Bull Run Button T1 six lengths 3 Newinn Banger T6 three and threequarters
A double for owner Len Ponder. Lenson Blinder soon led, ran rails to middle and drew away from the third bend in style. Bull Run Button kept on. Newinn Banger showed good early.
Ponder said: “It’s a good Derby but these have been long nights. Mine ran it much better tonight and we’ve seem some impressive dogs tonight.
Nicky Holland, wife of trainer Graham, said: “Blinder was a long time in the kennels, but he handled it and certainly looked the part.”
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Post by BVADMIN on May 26, 2019 8:04:33 GMT
The Second Round draw 1pm on Monday 27/5/19. Seeding can be changed up until the THIRD round draw.. Owners are guarded for the final time in Monday's second round draw.
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