GRV’s Peter Quilty, Gerard Guthrie and Trent Langskaill provide their thoughts on some of the star greyhounds racing in Victoria.
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Quilts Gents, the world’s greatest greyhound race is almost here. Let’s go through the finalists for the $1 million Group 1 Sportsbet Melbourne Cup in box draw order.
Gerard Jason Thompson would be thrilled that Plaintiff has the inside draw. He is unbeaten in four starts from Box 1 and his last two victories have shown his versatility.
Trent There was plenty of emotion from Rebecca and Daniel Gibbons when Titan Blazer won his heat. Can he capitalise on what should be a great run behind Plaintiff?
Quilts It would be unwise to rule out the Group 1 Perth Cup winner Vice Grip. He has a tremendous will to win and his trainer Adam Smithson thinks Box 3 is ideal.
Gerard Mark Delbridge is quietly confident that his first Melbourne Cup finalist – Yachi Bale – can claim the $650,000 first prize. He believes he is the strongest dog in the race.
Trent David Geall is not enamoured with Box 5 for Fernando Mick, but his lightning starts of late should hold him in good stead. He has also won his last four races at Sandown Park.
Quilts Box 6 has not done Zippy Tesla any favours according to trainer Bradley Keel. If Zippy Tesla is close enough turning for home, we know he loves to charge past his rivals.
Gerard “It is what it is” was the reaction from Daryl Holmes when Box 7 was drawn for El Dorado. It’s worth remembering that El Dorado (in Box 8) ran down Plaintiff (in Box 2) three starts back at The Meadows.
Quilts Box 8 will be difficult for Paddy Wants Pats to overcome. Kelly Bravo pointed out that he does race well out wide, and he is one of the most reliable beginners going around.
Trent It will be an outstanding night at Sandown Park with the $165,500 Group 1 Sportsbet Bold Trease Final as well, plus the Sportsbet Showdown between Amron Boy and Wow She’s Fast!