The all-important box draw for the inaugural $1.145m TAB The Phoenix (525m) was conducted live from the Metropolis Functions & Events Centre in Southbank this afternoon during GRV’s ‘Thrill of the Chase’ program on 7two.
A historic interactive box draw for the world’s only greyhound slot race – to be held at The Meadows on Saturday night – provided connections with the opportunity to strategically select their preferred boxes.
And – like the Phoenix in Greek mythology – it breathed ‘new life’ into the innovative race.
A couple of pre-box draw longshots ‘arose from the ashes’ – particularly Billy Creek whose trainer, Ian Gilders, was called up first on stage and duly selected Box 1. Billy Creek firmed dramatically from $101 into $41.
“The Meadows is a box one track, so it was an easy decision – although he has won four from four out of box four.
“His best section is the last section, but he has about the same amount of early pace as Jungle Deuce (Box 2) so hopefully he won’t cut Billy Creek off.”
Thrill of the chase – Season 4 – Episode 5
Spotted Elk’s odds were slashed from $26 into $13 after connections opted for Box 3. And Jungle Deuce’s price was trimmed from $10 into $8.50 after receiving Box 2.
Pre-race favourite Aston Rupee drifted slightly from $2.10 to $2.30 after trainer Glenn Rounds selected Box 5 with only four boxes remaining. Similarly, Koblenz went out from $3.20 to $3.40 when next up trainer David Geall chose Box 8.
Meanwhile, True Collinda (Box 7) moved from $8 to $10, Wow She’s Fast (Box 4) went from $8 to $8.50, and Vice Grip (Box 6) jumped from $26 to $34.
Eight slot holders paid $75,000 each for a chance to win a mouth-watering $750,000 first prize.
2021 TAB THE PHOENIX FIELD
- Billy Creek (NSW GBOTA)
- Jungle Deuce (GRNSW)
- Spotted Elk (Racing Queensland)
- Wow She’s Fast (Sportsbet)
- Aston Rupee (Ray Borda)
- Vice Grip (The Dogs WA)
- True Collinda (TAB)
- Koblenz (SEN)
Reserves:
- Lala Kiwi
- Lakeview Walter
