Wednesday, 29 February 2012
Monday, 27 February 2012
Arc 2nd Round Summary
Thought it was about time I updated this here blog. Seems to have been an age since I last wrote on here! The 2nd round of The Arc certainly provided everything, with a new track record seeming to be the norm at the moment.
Sids Dream, the Allsopp trained Dec '09 showed some blinding early pace to get round in front, and basically it was all over from there. I was driving the hare for the race and, believe me, the speed was unreal. As soon as he crossed the line I called 28.10 on the run to be honest.
However, arguably what could be more profitable to put in the notebook is the performances of Jazz Apollo. He's not had a clean run yet, and still battles on to place well in races. Though its a shame he's drawn trap 3 (again, my bad), if he gets a clear sight of the bunny he will put in some run. I've said that he'd go under 28.00 on a clear run, with the way he's running at the moment. Also, the track running that bit fast is also a factor!
Looking forward then, there's quite alot going on at Swindon. We've obviously got the Semi Finals of the Arc to look forward to this coming Friday (along with supporting opens), and The Arc final the following Thursday live on Sky Sports. The Sky meetings are always a brilliant night, with a great atmosphere, and this years should be more of the same.
The other big thing coming up is the BAGS Easter Bunny race series. The competition works in such a way that heats and finals are run at Swindon (with the heats of the comp starting on 12th March), with the races over 480m, 285m and 685m. There will be 2 heats for both the 285m and 685m distance (confirmation pending from RM) and 3 heats over 480m. The first 3 (or first two in 480) then go through to the final to be run on that week's Friday I believe, with the winner and the 2nd place then going on to represent Swindon on the big finals day on Good Friday.
Good Friday will be a big day for Swindon, with representatives travelling from all 16 other BAGS tracks to compete in the finals. Of each distance, there will be 3 finals, with Swindon having 2 representatives qualifying through to the finals day. Prize money for the competition is also pretty high. I don't know for definite at the time of writing what the prize money is for the local heats and final, but I believe that finals day is something like £750 winner, £75 others. A great prize to aim for.
If you want your greyhound to be considered for the competition, they have to first off be OR maidens. For the 285m and 685m trips, you must then also have a qualifying trial and one Fri/Sat night race over the designated trip.
For the next blog, I may do a video/audio version rather than text, just to try out new things. It'll be good to hear feedback!
All the best.
Chris
Sids Dream, the Allsopp trained Dec '09 showed some blinding early pace to get round in front, and basically it was all over from there. I was driving the hare for the race and, believe me, the speed was unreal. As soon as he crossed the line I called 28.10 on the run to be honest.
However, arguably what could be more profitable to put in the notebook is the performances of Jazz Apollo. He's not had a clean run yet, and still battles on to place well in races. Though its a shame he's drawn trap 3 (again, my bad), if he gets a clear sight of the bunny he will put in some run. I've said that he'd go under 28.00 on a clear run, with the way he's running at the moment. Also, the track running that bit fast is also a factor!
Looking forward then, there's quite alot going on at Swindon. We've obviously got the Semi Finals of the Arc to look forward to this coming Friday (along with supporting opens), and The Arc final the following Thursday live on Sky Sports. The Sky meetings are always a brilliant night, with a great atmosphere, and this years should be more of the same.
The other big thing coming up is the BAGS Easter Bunny race series. The competition works in such a way that heats and finals are run at Swindon (with the heats of the comp starting on 12th March), with the races over 480m, 285m and 685m. There will be 2 heats for both the 285m and 685m distance (confirmation pending from RM) and 3 heats over 480m. The first 3 (or first two in 480) then go through to the final to be run on that week's Friday I believe, with the winner and the 2nd place then going on to represent Swindon on the big finals day on Good Friday.
Good Friday will be a big day for Swindon, with representatives travelling from all 16 other BAGS tracks to compete in the finals. Of each distance, there will be 3 finals, with Swindon having 2 representatives qualifying through to the finals day. Prize money for the competition is also pretty high. I don't know for definite at the time of writing what the prize money is for the local heats and final, but I believe that finals day is something like £750 winner, £75 others. A great prize to aim for.
If you want your greyhound to be considered for the competition, they have to first off be OR maidens. For the 285m and 685m trips, you must then also have a qualifying trial and one Fri/Sat night race over the designated trip.
For the next blog, I may do a video/audio version rather than text, just to try out new things. It'll be good to hear feedback!
All the best.
Chris
Wednesday, 22 February 2012
The Ladbrokes Mobile Arc 2nd Round
Here's my preview of the second round of The Arc. Some cracking races on offer on Friday afternoon, which should also provide some good betting opportunities.
Heat One
This first heat sees my pick to win the competition, Longwood Days, running out of trap 2 in which will be a battle of the railers. Jaytee Tiger, realistically needing 1 or 2, has been drawn in trap 4, which will see him drift very hard left out of the boxes. Looking at the make up of the race, the best drawn dogs in the race are Days and the sole wide seed Sids Dream. Dream put in a very brave performance in behind King Jaffa on Monday, and has early pace to burn. I do feel that he does need a much longer run up though, as he doesn't quite trap out, but shows terrific early (this is why he went over 509 I suspect)
Hey Gringo certainly took my eye in the first heat of the Arc. He railed like a cat round the last bend, and him being in one is of massive benefit to him. Farloe Titan ran credibly behind new track record holder Slick Santiago, matching him for early pace up to the half way point.
The big performer, however, was Jazz Apollo. Taking a pretty hefty whack at the bend, he steered clear down the back straight to win by a shade under 4 lengths in 28.56. I think if the clock is going to go again in this competition (which I would be betting that it will) this is the dog to do it. Getting a clear run to the bend is the key here, otherwise its plain sailing.
My Pick: 3-5-6
Heat 2
Really good race this, and one that will have people with all sorts of opinions guessing.
Ballymac Eugenie really hasn't impressed in the couple of spins its had around Swindon, and she doesn't really look like doing alot of damage in this race either. She's got an essence of 'Shaws Dilemma' about her, really classy in her own right but sadly not doing the business round Swindon.
Ding Hero is the local raider in this race, and should be looking to ping out like we know he can do. He's classy enough to be in with this sort of competition and challenge them, but he did qualify the hard way last time out. If he could edge the 1 out of it from the first bend he's in contention of reaching the semi finals.
Droopys Loner is one classy bitch. Trained by Dean Childs, she has early pace to burn, but doesn't really stay the 480 all that well. Saying that, Jolly Poacher never stayed it last year and won, and I can't see why she couldn't go all the way. She should get a free passage to the bend, and I expect her to be there or there abouts come the line.
Grandard Bound is next up in trap 4 for Stuart Mason, and I have my suspicions about the dog. I think he could've won by further in the first round if he had wanted to. I'm not for one minute saying he's a dodge or anything, just saying that I think he takes races in his own stride and does 'just enough'. To be honest, if they're winning, that's all that matters. Expect a late charge.
Droopys Lorenzo is my pick to win this race. The other Dean Child's hopeful has really taken to the Blunsdon circuit well and knows how to fly the lids. Posting sub 2.40 splits each time is a key way to ensure success in this competition, so hopefully we'll see more of the same from him. He'll need to keep in his lane, however.
Mays Gold was a rather suprise qualifier on Monday, having said that he has always shown that he has potential over these standard trips. He has a pretty tough task in this race however. Expect a double digit price
My Pick: 5-3-2
Heat 3
Tough race this one, however I think I've found a good priced winner in this in the form of Guinness Magic.
Magic ran really well in behind Jazz Apollo on Monday and is certainly classy enough to see the competition off. Posting times such as 27.52 Henlow does wanders for his CV. One thing to keep in mind is that Mondays run was his first run over 4 bends since the end of last year, so would've possibly needed the gallop. The trap draw, I don't think, is too much of an issue either, as I think he keeps his line well.
Longwood Fantasy is another that really took the eye in the heats. Having said that, he did take a while to get past Droopys Loner, and should've really asserted himself more in the closing stages of the race. Again, he's coming back into the fold after a spell off and can improve on the run.
To make up the places really is a toughie, as everyone did perform well in the heats. Coom Bullet was really impressive in winning the opening heat of the Arc. However, I don't think he's capable of putting a performance in like that again. King Jaffa put in a good all round run on Monday, asserting himself off the last bend to win his heat in a decent time. However, Jaffa would must prefer to be a tad closer to the rails in my opinion.
Bowtime Joey will always be a credible forecast and tricast link in these sorts of races, as he's classy enough to live with the 480m dogs but realistically wants a further trip. Boherna Bridge also ran a good bend in his first look of the track
My Pick: 6-4-1 (NAP)
Heat 4
My next best runs in this race, in the form of now-former track record holder Mark My Words. I queried the decision to seed him rails in the last blog, however the seeding has worked into his hands in this race. With Ballymac Cryan drawing two, I think he get a clear run up the rail to make all in the race. The only concern that I have of him is that, on the few occasions that I've followed him in competitions, he doesn't seem to take too kindly to the quick runs (Produce Stakes the obvious one that springs to mind). If he gets over this hurdle though, he could be a big player going into the Semis.
New track record holder Slick Santiago runs in trap 6 here, which to me is no where near where he wants to be. He's an out and out middle runner, and won't like being in the stripes. The only hope I think he's got of getting a good run round is if Bit View Micko in the 5 jacket doesn't hit the lids fast, that way he can possibly sneak into a middle-ish position round the 1st. Doing this, he'll give MMW a run.
For the places then, Spinkys Nod looks completely outdrawn in this race, and meeds the rails rather urgently in my opinion. With Cryan on her inside aswell, she could have a problematic run to the bend. Lenson Mac qualified well enough in the heats, however I think this is a tad too big a step up for him. He's certainly got the class, but I think he's more suited to an Oxford/Peterborough trip. Bit View Micko will be a double digit price in this.
Ballymac Cryan then takes my pick in this race. He really caught the eye running in behind Spinkys Nod in the heats, and is more than capable in this sort of class. It's now time for him to prove that he can live with the big boys. I don't think an E/W bet on him to win the Arc is the worst bet in the world.
My Pick: 1-6-2 (NB)
Heat One
This first heat sees my pick to win the competition, Longwood Days, running out of trap 2 in which will be a battle of the railers. Jaytee Tiger, realistically needing 1 or 2, has been drawn in trap 4, which will see him drift very hard left out of the boxes. Looking at the make up of the race, the best drawn dogs in the race are Days and the sole wide seed Sids Dream. Dream put in a very brave performance in behind King Jaffa on Monday, and has early pace to burn. I do feel that he does need a much longer run up though, as he doesn't quite trap out, but shows terrific early (this is why he went over 509 I suspect)
Hey Gringo certainly took my eye in the first heat of the Arc. He railed like a cat round the last bend, and him being in one is of massive benefit to him. Farloe Titan ran credibly behind new track record holder Slick Santiago, matching him for early pace up to the half way point.
The big performer, however, was Jazz Apollo. Taking a pretty hefty whack at the bend, he steered clear down the back straight to win by a shade under 4 lengths in 28.56. I think if the clock is going to go again in this competition (which I would be betting that it will) this is the dog to do it. Getting a clear run to the bend is the key here, otherwise its plain sailing.
My Pick: 3-5-6
Heat 2
Really good race this, and one that will have people with all sorts of opinions guessing.
Ballymac Eugenie really hasn't impressed in the couple of spins its had around Swindon, and she doesn't really look like doing alot of damage in this race either. She's got an essence of 'Shaws Dilemma' about her, really classy in her own right but sadly not doing the business round Swindon.
Ding Hero is the local raider in this race, and should be looking to ping out like we know he can do. He's classy enough to be in with this sort of competition and challenge them, but he did qualify the hard way last time out. If he could edge the 1 out of it from the first bend he's in contention of reaching the semi finals.
Droopys Loner is one classy bitch. Trained by Dean Childs, she has early pace to burn, but doesn't really stay the 480 all that well. Saying that, Jolly Poacher never stayed it last year and won, and I can't see why she couldn't go all the way. She should get a free passage to the bend, and I expect her to be there or there abouts come the line.
Grandard Bound is next up in trap 4 for Stuart Mason, and I have my suspicions about the dog. I think he could've won by further in the first round if he had wanted to. I'm not for one minute saying he's a dodge or anything, just saying that I think he takes races in his own stride and does 'just enough'. To be honest, if they're winning, that's all that matters. Expect a late charge.
Droopys Lorenzo is my pick to win this race. The other Dean Child's hopeful has really taken to the Blunsdon circuit well and knows how to fly the lids. Posting sub 2.40 splits each time is a key way to ensure success in this competition, so hopefully we'll see more of the same from him. He'll need to keep in his lane, however.
Mays Gold was a rather suprise qualifier on Monday, having said that he has always shown that he has potential over these standard trips. He has a pretty tough task in this race however. Expect a double digit price
My Pick: 5-3-2
Heat 3
Tough race this one, however I think I've found a good priced winner in this in the form of Guinness Magic.
Magic ran really well in behind Jazz Apollo on Monday and is certainly classy enough to see the competition off. Posting times such as 27.52 Henlow does wanders for his CV. One thing to keep in mind is that Mondays run was his first run over 4 bends since the end of last year, so would've possibly needed the gallop. The trap draw, I don't think, is too much of an issue either, as I think he keeps his line well.
Longwood Fantasy is another that really took the eye in the heats. Having said that, he did take a while to get past Droopys Loner, and should've really asserted himself more in the closing stages of the race. Again, he's coming back into the fold after a spell off and can improve on the run.
To make up the places really is a toughie, as everyone did perform well in the heats. Coom Bullet was really impressive in winning the opening heat of the Arc. However, I don't think he's capable of putting a performance in like that again. King Jaffa put in a good all round run on Monday, asserting himself off the last bend to win his heat in a decent time. However, Jaffa would must prefer to be a tad closer to the rails in my opinion.
Bowtime Joey will always be a credible forecast and tricast link in these sorts of races, as he's classy enough to live with the 480m dogs but realistically wants a further trip. Boherna Bridge also ran a good bend in his first look of the track
My Pick: 6-4-1 (NAP)
Heat 4
My next best runs in this race, in the form of now-former track record holder Mark My Words. I queried the decision to seed him rails in the last blog, however the seeding has worked into his hands in this race. With Ballymac Cryan drawing two, I think he get a clear run up the rail to make all in the race. The only concern that I have of him is that, on the few occasions that I've followed him in competitions, he doesn't seem to take too kindly to the quick runs (Produce Stakes the obvious one that springs to mind). If he gets over this hurdle though, he could be a big player going into the Semis.
New track record holder Slick Santiago runs in trap 6 here, which to me is no where near where he wants to be. He's an out and out middle runner, and won't like being in the stripes. The only hope I think he's got of getting a good run round is if Bit View Micko in the 5 jacket doesn't hit the lids fast, that way he can possibly sneak into a middle-ish position round the 1st. Doing this, he'll give MMW a run.
For the places then, Spinkys Nod looks completely outdrawn in this race, and meeds the rails rather urgently in my opinion. With Cryan on her inside aswell, she could have a problematic run to the bend. Lenson Mac qualified well enough in the heats, however I think this is a tad too big a step up for him. He's certainly got the class, but I think he's more suited to an Oxford/Peterborough trip. Bit View Micko will be a double digit price in this.
Ballymac Cryan then takes my pick in this race. He really caught the eye running in behind Spinkys Nod in the heats, and is more than capable in this sort of class. It's now time for him to prove that he can live with the big boys. I don't think an E/W bet on him to win the Arc is the worst bet in the world.
My Pick: 1-6-2 (NB)
Monday, 20 February 2012
My One To Watch 2012
I realise that this blog has been very Arc focused in the past couple of weeks, and maybe I should be more grounded and look at our graded fare. Thus, I thought I'd share with you my one to watch.
To be honest it sort of ties in with the new 'Swindon Special' that will be up in the next week or so. My one to watch this year is Brizzle Blue.
The May'10 son of Droopys Maldini and Sofem really took my eye in his first sprint trial at the track. I was actually hare driving for it, and the pace that he set going round the first couple of bends, for a baby, was very impressive. His subsequent 480m trials made sure that he graded in at A3.
There is something about his running style that I like. He runs hideously wide round the first bend (which admittedly costs him a length or so), but his back-straight pace he's capable of showing, especially when he won his current only win back in December, to me shows he's a future 6 bend star.
Alan and Debbie McDowell have done a fab job with the Sofem litters that have graced their paddocks, and I feel this litter might hit the ground running a bit more than the '08 batch. The mating to Droopys Maldini has certainly worked this time around, and I fully suspect that Brizzle Blue will be competing in open class later on in the year. Obviously, he qualifies for the Produce Stakes (which I'm sure he's entered for), and expect him to be a contender as he's allowed to progress in the coming months.
Blue has most recently trialled back in with an impressive 29.15 trial, again showing some phenomenal back straight pace. Remember, this is only a baby that I'm talking about, he's still got learning to do and natural muscle building and track craft to perfect, however I'm sure that he's a star of the future.
To be honest it sort of ties in with the new 'Swindon Special' that will be up in the next week or so. My one to watch this year is Brizzle Blue.
The May'10 son of Droopys Maldini and Sofem really took my eye in his first sprint trial at the track. I was actually hare driving for it, and the pace that he set going round the first couple of bends, for a baby, was very impressive. His subsequent 480m trials made sure that he graded in at A3.
There is something about his running style that I like. He runs hideously wide round the first bend (which admittedly costs him a length or so), but his back-straight pace he's capable of showing, especially when he won his current only win back in December, to me shows he's a future 6 bend star.
Alan and Debbie McDowell have done a fab job with the Sofem litters that have graced their paddocks, and I feel this litter might hit the ground running a bit more than the '08 batch. The mating to Droopys Maldini has certainly worked this time around, and I fully suspect that Brizzle Blue will be competing in open class later on in the year. Obviously, he qualifies for the Produce Stakes (which I'm sure he's entered for), and expect him to be a contender as he's allowed to progress in the coming months.
Blue has most recently trialled back in with an impressive 29.15 trial, again showing some phenomenal back straight pace. Remember, this is only a baby that I'm talking about, he's still got learning to do and natural muscle building and track craft to perfect, however I'm sure that he's a star of the future.
What a 1st Round!
Well, it was full of thrills, spills, shocks and clocks as the Ladbrokes Mobile Arc took place at Swindon this afternoon, offering a spectacle of the best OR action you'll see anywhere.
The first race really summed up how the afternoon was going to go, when the well fancied Sawpit Sensation was knocked out of the competition. Seen by many as the big player this year, he never really got going early doors and got thumped at the bend. Alas, game over, and for the bookies it was a winning heat, having seen the odds of Sensation go from 4/5 to 4/7.
And of course, the big story of the day was the clock breaking run by Slick Santiago. Bigged up in this blog by yours truely, the race panned out pretty much how I thought. Farloe Titan got a very good early start, however Santiago saw him off down the back. Thus, he romped up to a very good 2 1/2 length win in a new track record run of 28.21. I must admit, I didn't think it looked very 'clock breaker' like, having initially thought Jazz Apollo had come close to the clock. Alas, a very good win, but the draw in the next round does him no favours.
There wasn't really alot of luck for the local runners, with only 2 going through to the next round. Ding Hero ran a credible race and just got up on the line when it mattered to finished 3rd in his heat, whereas Ballymac Cryan put in a really good run behind Spinkys Nod. Fingers crossed one of these, ideally both, can get through the next round.
I'll be posting a preview of the next round up in the next couple of days, so watch this space!
Chris
The first race really summed up how the afternoon was going to go, when the well fancied Sawpit Sensation was knocked out of the competition. Seen by many as the big player this year, he never really got going early doors and got thumped at the bend. Alas, game over, and for the bookies it was a winning heat, having seen the odds of Sensation go from 4/5 to 4/7.
And of course, the big story of the day was the clock breaking run by Slick Santiago. Bigged up in this blog by yours truely, the race panned out pretty much how I thought. Farloe Titan got a very good early start, however Santiago saw him off down the back. Thus, he romped up to a very good 2 1/2 length win in a new track record run of 28.21. I must admit, I didn't think it looked very 'clock breaker' like, having initially thought Jazz Apollo had come close to the clock. Alas, a very good win, but the draw in the next round does him no favours.
There wasn't really alot of luck for the local runners, with only 2 going through to the next round. Ding Hero ran a credible race and just got up on the line when it mattered to finished 3rd in his heat, whereas Ballymac Cryan put in a really good run behind Spinkys Nod. Fingers crossed one of these, ideally both, can get through the next round.
I'll be posting a preview of the next round up in the next couple of days, so watch this space!
Chris
Thursday, 16 February 2012
The Ladbrokes Mobile Arc: Round 1
So, after a frantic day in the Swindon racing office, the draw for the Ladbrokes Mobile Arc has been sorted. Hooray! I've taken a couple of hours to look at it (yes, some thought does go into these blog posts) so here's my take on the races, and my 3 greyhounds that will qualify from each:
Heat 1
We start things off with a bit of an easy one. The stand out greyhound in this race is trap 6 Sawpit Sensation. He really caught the eye on his Swindon debut when he romped up after properly fluffing the start up, and he posted a very decent 28.55 (calc). Inside him is Coom Bullet, who finally has middle tag on him. Bullet is certainly classy in his own right. He will veer towards the trap 3/4 lane on the run up, which could cause a problem for Tinas Zodiac and Salacres Town, the latter of which hasn't trialled. Hey Gringo has a good pitch in red, but wants to run pretty much identically to how he trialled, as Jaytee Tiger will ping out. If Gringo can just pitch in behind, he'll open up down the back, and he's certainly classy. Zodiac hasn't run a poor race yet at Swindon, and should be a contender.
My Pick: 6-1-5
Heat 2
Cracking race this one, and was pretty difficult to fathom out. However I think I've come up with the make-up. Looking at the race, in all honesty, I've discounted the 4 dog. I just don't think he's cut out for this level. Sids Dream, who is taking to the circuit like a duck to water, should be favourite and should justify here. His early pace is phenomenal, and daren't I say English Derby like? He will be made to run, however, as the 5 dog Ministry Missile certainly isn't short of early toe either. The Romford Puppy Derby finalist certainly would prefer a short trip. On the rails, we have Bowtime Joey, who looked superb in a trial on Tuesday, making all off the 1st bend. However, it might not be as easy to lead round with the early in the race. I'd expect him to be running on behind Sids Dream. The battle then for me is between King Jaffa and Swabys Princess. Princess has some pretty good times at Hove, including a recent 29.89 win in front of Ballymac Eugenie (at 14/1 admittedly), but Mr. Jaffa just heads it for me. He's really come on for the McNair camp, and 2 in this race should suit him.
My Pick: 6-1-2
Heat 3
Now this race is a bit tasty, but in this race I think we have the Arc winner.
Longwood Days has done expertly well since returning from a long lay off, and is running the track really well. In this race he gets an absolute solo through the middle. I should think he'll be a backable price aswell, as there is alot of decent competition in the race. The problem then is picking the places. Next in line for me is Droopys Lorenzo. He's only just turned two, but already has some pretty impressive lines of form, mainly at Belle Vue and Romford. The trial last time out was very impressive, most of all the split. He powered out, and doing this sort of run again could see him leading up Rayvin Again on his inside. Maireads Hawk is a very classy greyhound, however he didn't really impress in the OR here a couple of weeks back. Another trial could've been useful. Lenson Mac has had a very perculiar campaign, mainly being involved in sprints. He hasn't really got a great deal of early to accompany the form though. Snowdon Flyer is a very useful dog in red, having regular sub 30.00 runs at Hove
My Pick: 4-1-6 (NAP)
Heat 4
Cracking race this one, with Jazz Apollo getting the nod from me. The Mark Wallis trained dog has some expert times round Sittingbourne and other gallops, and trialled on really well on Tuesday. I particularly liked how he railed the bends, so he'll appreciate the trap 2 draw. Ding Hero on his inside will have to be foot perfect coming out of the boxes to have any sort of run in this race. It's certainly a step up for him, but he's just coming to hand nicely.
There's a very game race going on for the places in this race, with Monaghan Jack being my pick to be in the mix. He has some good lines from Hall Green and trialled very well on Tuesday, posting a great sectional. However, this is a step up in class to what he's used to. There seems to be some draw issues, with Snowdon Tommy arguably needing to be seeded wide in this really. His recent trials indicate he's better out on the hare rail than the running rail, and him veering right out of the boxes could cause problems for both jack and the very fast Guiness Magic, who himself has some good form include a mightly impressive 27.52 at Henlow. Holycross Prince would prefer a longer run, and will be running on at the end.
My Pick: 2-5-1
Heat 5
First thing I have to say in this race is bravo to Paul Sallis with Farloe Titan, who's gunning for his 3rd successive Arc final. The winner from 2010 looks to still have the speed capable of winning a group 1, and again impressed in trials. Arguably he'd prefer the rails though, which houses kennel mate and track record holder Mark My Words. Oddly, he's been seeded rals in this competition. He did win out of the middle in the Produce Stakes and broke the clock on these occasions, so the change of seed is peculiar. He's a class act and should do well in this race.
However, my Next Best lines up in this race in the form of Slick Santiago. I think he get an absolute clear run through the middle in this race, and has the pace to lead up the inside runners. From there, I think its an easy race for him, and he should be a decent price to considering the quality of the field.
As for the wide runners, Destroy the Camp is certainly a class act, however he hasn't had alot of racing recently due to a spell of injury, so he might not be 100% fit going into the race. Guinness Hawk has potential in the stripes, and you should expect to see him running on towards the finish. The same goes for Millroad Scolari. DTC would prefer the 6 box, so he could be veering out towards the hare rail on the run up, but so long as he puts a decent split it he should clear the 5 and 6
My Pick: 3-1-4 (NB)
Heat 6
Brilliant race this, with my pick going to Longwood Fantasy. There isn't alot of early pace in the race, with the best of the rest coming from Droopys Loner in 2, so I can see Fantasy getting a good run into the bend and making all from there. He's a Laurels Finalist, when psoting 2nd behind a certain Eden Star, so he's more than capable. He'll be a big player in this years Arc, along with his kennelmate Days.
Droopys Loner is a bitch in form, having trialled on at Swindon after a cople of good runs at both Yarmouth and Henlow respectively. The trial comments are a bit misleading however, as I felt that Loner checked coming out of the 2nd bend, and when trying to challenge Droopys Lorenzo off the 3rd she checked slightly again, so there's plenty of improvement to come off of that trial.
As for the rest, I don't think that Seek the Cash and Melodys Express are really up to the task here. They have some decent lines, but against this sort of competition its hard to envisage them getting very far. Boherna Bridge has a very good 28.94 time round Nottingham, and has some decent wins round there. However, a lack of a trial is a concern. Trevi You Go seems the best of the trio-links. He's capable of running on well over this 480m trip, and is well drawn as the early pace outside of trap 5.
My Pick: 4-2-6
Heat 7
I wondered where all the local dogs had gone, turns out they're all in this heat! Hernandez, one of the favourites now to win the competition, has finally come good off of his 6 1/2 length romp up last time out, beating a quality field. His pace was there, he just wasn't showing it, but I think the penny has finally dropped! He'll almost certainly be the one to beat in this race, which arguably isn't as classy as the field he beat last time out.
Spinkys Nod in trap 1 has potential to improve on her trial time. She has some very good times at Hove, and has various OR success, including winning the Essex Vase at Romford in 2010 I believe? She also ran in the Oaks last year behind Silverview Perky. She's drawn red, which is where she needs to be. However, she needs to be able to match Glenbane Air for early pace. He's been drawn in two, and I reckon he's better than what his form is suggesting. I'm thinking he'll run a big race here.
For the other places, Ballycowen Dave hasn't really translated his Irish form over here yet, not really taking the eye too much. I expect this is too big a task for him. Ballymac Cryan, in my opinion, seems to have been seeded wrong, I always had him down as a middle to wide runner, thus the rails seeding seems a bit bonkers to me. He'll be moving right on the run up. Mays Gold can run well enough when not getting trouble in running, and the Corrin Price trained greyhound could be the suprise of the pack.
My Pick: 4-2-5
Heat 8
Classy heat again this one, with some competition finalists amongst the group. My pick, goes to Ballymac Eugenie in trap 1. Trained by Kelly Findlay, Eugenie has some good lines of form, and has reached several finals, including winning the bitches festival race at Monmore. The trial on Tuesday was a tad disappointing, however I feel she will come on from that. She has a good amount of early aswell.
Granard Bound in trap 3 is an extremely fast greyhound when he wants to be. Having posted a very good trial time last time out, he's my forecast link in this race. There may not be many wins on his card, but he certainly has potential. Slick Hawk is another who, although not having the greatest looking card in the world, ran a really impressive trial on Tuesday, and will be running on towards the finish.
Again, the battle of the late pace continues with the other runners, with Hugo You Go arguably running his best races over 575 at Romford. He has that kick of early, however, that can see him possibly go round the first in 2nd or 3rd, which would put him in great contention. bit View Micko hasn't put a foot wrong really in any of his races on his card, and ran credibly behind Coom Bullet in a trial stake a week or so ago. I would personally have seeded him wide.
Burwood Freddie is a track specialist, and is not a dog that you should leave out of contention when running around Swindon. He loves the trap 6, and does have the potential to crack out when he wants to. He should get through in this race.
My Pick: 1-3-6
Well there's my look on the races folks. Remember, the first round is on Monday afternoon, with the first of the heats going off at 3:17. If you're popping up, come and say hi!
The best of luck to all the runners in the Ladbrokes Mobile Arc this year. Lets hope that this year is the best Arc year yet!
Chris,
Heat 1
We start things off with a bit of an easy one. The stand out greyhound in this race is trap 6 Sawpit Sensation. He really caught the eye on his Swindon debut when he romped up after properly fluffing the start up, and he posted a very decent 28.55 (calc). Inside him is Coom Bullet, who finally has middle tag on him. Bullet is certainly classy in his own right. He will veer towards the trap 3/4 lane on the run up, which could cause a problem for Tinas Zodiac and Salacres Town, the latter of which hasn't trialled. Hey Gringo has a good pitch in red, but wants to run pretty much identically to how he trialled, as Jaytee Tiger will ping out. If Gringo can just pitch in behind, he'll open up down the back, and he's certainly classy. Zodiac hasn't run a poor race yet at Swindon, and should be a contender.
My Pick: 6-1-5
Heat 2
Cracking race this one, and was pretty difficult to fathom out. However I think I've come up with the make-up. Looking at the race, in all honesty, I've discounted the 4 dog. I just don't think he's cut out for this level. Sids Dream, who is taking to the circuit like a duck to water, should be favourite and should justify here. His early pace is phenomenal, and daren't I say English Derby like? He will be made to run, however, as the 5 dog Ministry Missile certainly isn't short of early toe either. The Romford Puppy Derby finalist certainly would prefer a short trip. On the rails, we have Bowtime Joey, who looked superb in a trial on Tuesday, making all off the 1st bend. However, it might not be as easy to lead round with the early in the race. I'd expect him to be running on behind Sids Dream. The battle then for me is between King Jaffa and Swabys Princess. Princess has some pretty good times at Hove, including a recent 29.89 win in front of Ballymac Eugenie (at 14/1 admittedly), but Mr. Jaffa just heads it for me. He's really come on for the McNair camp, and 2 in this race should suit him.
My Pick: 6-1-2
Heat 3
Now this race is a bit tasty, but in this race I think we have the Arc winner.
Longwood Days has done expertly well since returning from a long lay off, and is running the track really well. In this race he gets an absolute solo through the middle. I should think he'll be a backable price aswell, as there is alot of decent competition in the race. The problem then is picking the places. Next in line for me is Droopys Lorenzo. He's only just turned two, but already has some pretty impressive lines of form, mainly at Belle Vue and Romford. The trial last time out was very impressive, most of all the split. He powered out, and doing this sort of run again could see him leading up Rayvin Again on his inside. Maireads Hawk is a very classy greyhound, however he didn't really impress in the OR here a couple of weeks back. Another trial could've been useful. Lenson Mac has had a very perculiar campaign, mainly being involved in sprints. He hasn't really got a great deal of early to accompany the form though. Snowdon Flyer is a very useful dog in red, having regular sub 30.00 runs at Hove
My Pick: 4-1-6 (NAP)
Heat 4
Cracking race this one, with Jazz Apollo getting the nod from me. The Mark Wallis trained dog has some expert times round Sittingbourne and other gallops, and trialled on really well on Tuesday. I particularly liked how he railed the bends, so he'll appreciate the trap 2 draw. Ding Hero on his inside will have to be foot perfect coming out of the boxes to have any sort of run in this race. It's certainly a step up for him, but he's just coming to hand nicely.
There's a very game race going on for the places in this race, with Monaghan Jack being my pick to be in the mix. He has some good lines from Hall Green and trialled very well on Tuesday, posting a great sectional. However, this is a step up in class to what he's used to. There seems to be some draw issues, with Snowdon Tommy arguably needing to be seeded wide in this really. His recent trials indicate he's better out on the hare rail than the running rail, and him veering right out of the boxes could cause problems for both jack and the very fast Guiness Magic, who himself has some good form include a mightly impressive 27.52 at Henlow. Holycross Prince would prefer a longer run, and will be running on at the end.
My Pick: 2-5-1
Heat 5
First thing I have to say in this race is bravo to Paul Sallis with Farloe Titan, who's gunning for his 3rd successive Arc final. The winner from 2010 looks to still have the speed capable of winning a group 1, and again impressed in trials. Arguably he'd prefer the rails though, which houses kennel mate and track record holder Mark My Words. Oddly, he's been seeded rals in this competition. He did win out of the middle in the Produce Stakes and broke the clock on these occasions, so the change of seed is peculiar. He's a class act and should do well in this race.
However, my Next Best lines up in this race in the form of Slick Santiago. I think he get an absolute clear run through the middle in this race, and has the pace to lead up the inside runners. From there, I think its an easy race for him, and he should be a decent price to considering the quality of the field.
As for the wide runners, Destroy the Camp is certainly a class act, however he hasn't had alot of racing recently due to a spell of injury, so he might not be 100% fit going into the race. Guinness Hawk has potential in the stripes, and you should expect to see him running on towards the finish. The same goes for Millroad Scolari. DTC would prefer the 6 box, so he could be veering out towards the hare rail on the run up, but so long as he puts a decent split it he should clear the 5 and 6
My Pick: 3-1-4 (NB)
Heat 6
Brilliant race this, with my pick going to Longwood Fantasy. There isn't alot of early pace in the race, with the best of the rest coming from Droopys Loner in 2, so I can see Fantasy getting a good run into the bend and making all from there. He's a Laurels Finalist, when psoting 2nd behind a certain Eden Star, so he's more than capable. He'll be a big player in this years Arc, along with his kennelmate Days.
Droopys Loner is a bitch in form, having trialled on at Swindon after a cople of good runs at both Yarmouth and Henlow respectively. The trial comments are a bit misleading however, as I felt that Loner checked coming out of the 2nd bend, and when trying to challenge Droopys Lorenzo off the 3rd she checked slightly again, so there's plenty of improvement to come off of that trial.
As for the rest, I don't think that Seek the Cash and Melodys Express are really up to the task here. They have some decent lines, but against this sort of competition its hard to envisage them getting very far. Boherna Bridge has a very good 28.94 time round Nottingham, and has some decent wins round there. However, a lack of a trial is a concern. Trevi You Go seems the best of the trio-links. He's capable of running on well over this 480m trip, and is well drawn as the early pace outside of trap 5.
My Pick: 4-2-6
Heat 7
I wondered where all the local dogs had gone, turns out they're all in this heat! Hernandez, one of the favourites now to win the competition, has finally come good off of his 6 1/2 length romp up last time out, beating a quality field. His pace was there, he just wasn't showing it, but I think the penny has finally dropped! He'll almost certainly be the one to beat in this race, which arguably isn't as classy as the field he beat last time out.
Spinkys Nod in trap 1 has potential to improve on her trial time. She has some very good times at Hove, and has various OR success, including winning the Essex Vase at Romford in 2010 I believe? She also ran in the Oaks last year behind Silverview Perky. She's drawn red, which is where she needs to be. However, she needs to be able to match Glenbane Air for early pace. He's been drawn in two, and I reckon he's better than what his form is suggesting. I'm thinking he'll run a big race here.
For the other places, Ballycowen Dave hasn't really translated his Irish form over here yet, not really taking the eye too much. I expect this is too big a task for him. Ballymac Cryan, in my opinion, seems to have been seeded wrong, I always had him down as a middle to wide runner, thus the rails seeding seems a bit bonkers to me. He'll be moving right on the run up. Mays Gold can run well enough when not getting trouble in running, and the Corrin Price trained greyhound could be the suprise of the pack.
My Pick: 4-2-5
Heat 8
Classy heat again this one, with some competition finalists amongst the group. My pick, goes to Ballymac Eugenie in trap 1. Trained by Kelly Findlay, Eugenie has some good lines of form, and has reached several finals, including winning the bitches festival race at Monmore. The trial on Tuesday was a tad disappointing, however I feel she will come on from that. She has a good amount of early aswell.
Granard Bound in trap 3 is an extremely fast greyhound when he wants to be. Having posted a very good trial time last time out, he's my forecast link in this race. There may not be many wins on his card, but he certainly has potential. Slick Hawk is another who, although not having the greatest looking card in the world, ran a really impressive trial on Tuesday, and will be running on towards the finish.
Again, the battle of the late pace continues with the other runners, with Hugo You Go arguably running his best races over 575 at Romford. He has that kick of early, however, that can see him possibly go round the first in 2nd or 3rd, which would put him in great contention. bit View Micko hasn't put a foot wrong really in any of his races on his card, and ran credibly behind Coom Bullet in a trial stake a week or so ago. I would personally have seeded him wide.
Burwood Freddie is a track specialist, and is not a dog that you should leave out of contention when running around Swindon. He loves the trap 6, and does have the potential to crack out when he wants to. He should get through in this race.
My Pick: 1-3-6
Well there's my look on the races folks. Remember, the first round is on Monday afternoon, with the first of the heats going off at 3:17. If you're popping up, come and say hi!
The best of luck to all the runners in the Ladbrokes Mobile Arc this year. Lets hope that this year is the best Arc year yet!
Chris,
Saturday, 11 February 2012
We're getting closer . . .
The Ladbrokes Mobile Arc is well and truely up our jacksie now, and we're only 9 days away from the first round. Excited? I know I am!
First of all, a quick round up of Wednesday's action. Biggest shocks for me on the night were the betting markets. They seemed a bit mad to say the least, though good for your wallet (so long as your on the winner, of course). Sids Dream, winner of the 509m event, opened up at 3/1, which completely flabbergasted me. How a dog who posted a 28.61 in trials opened up at that sort of price is crazy. It was duely backed down to 7/4, which in truth was the price I thought it would be on opening.
Then another turn out was Longwood Days. Now, just to give a quick recap, this dog has won the Sussex Cup at Hove, posted 29.50 runs for the 515m trip down there (which is very impressive), and then gets shunted out from 6/4 to 9/4. How did no one latch onto that great price! I don't want to sound harsh against Mercurial Star here, really don't, but you cannot ignore competition success vs. minor open success, there is no comparison.
A shout out here aswell, more a thank you really, for those trainers who travelled from around the country to be at Swindon Wednesday night. Was great seeing so many new faces turn up to the track. This is the joy of an OR competition such as the Arc. One other joy is seeing greyhounds who aren't trained by your Listers (excuse that one maybe), Allsopps or Cahills winning round Swindon in times that prove to be competition to the great hounds that the top trainers have. Provides a good battle I feel, and long may it continue.
Now, you can probably imagine that I'm going to be having sleepless nights about the trial session that is graced upon us on Tuesday (follow @SwindonRacing on twitter for trial times). I am buzzing for this trial session! Some fab dogs spinning round the track in view of the Arc, and if this is any indication of the entry that the main competition is going to have, then we are going to have not just the best Arc we've seen at Swindon, but arguably one of the most competitive Category Ones you'll see at any dog track this year.
I'll be posted an update up after the trials on Tuesday, and then one Thurs/Friday giving my low-down on the Arc draws, plus who I think will win the competition. If you want me to chat about anything on this blog, or have any views/comments, feel free to email us using the contact form on the website. I do appreciate feedback, good or bad!
Until Next Time!!
Chris,
First of all, a quick round up of Wednesday's action. Biggest shocks for me on the night were the betting markets. They seemed a bit mad to say the least, though good for your wallet (so long as your on the winner, of course). Sids Dream, winner of the 509m event, opened up at 3/1, which completely flabbergasted me. How a dog who posted a 28.61 in trials opened up at that sort of price is crazy. It was duely backed down to 7/4, which in truth was the price I thought it would be on opening.
Then another turn out was Longwood Days. Now, just to give a quick recap, this dog has won the Sussex Cup at Hove, posted 29.50 runs for the 515m trip down there (which is very impressive), and then gets shunted out from 6/4 to 9/4. How did no one latch onto that great price! I don't want to sound harsh against Mercurial Star here, really don't, but you cannot ignore competition success vs. minor open success, there is no comparison.
A shout out here aswell, more a thank you really, for those trainers who travelled from around the country to be at Swindon Wednesday night. Was great seeing so many new faces turn up to the track. This is the joy of an OR competition such as the Arc. One other joy is seeing greyhounds who aren't trained by your Listers (excuse that one maybe), Allsopps or Cahills winning round Swindon in times that prove to be competition to the great hounds that the top trainers have. Provides a good battle I feel, and long may it continue.
Now, you can probably imagine that I'm going to be having sleepless nights about the trial session that is graced upon us on Tuesday (follow @SwindonRacing on twitter for trial times). I am buzzing for this trial session! Some fab dogs spinning round the track in view of the Arc, and if this is any indication of the entry that the main competition is going to have, then we are going to have not just the best Arc we've seen at Swindon, but arguably one of the most competitive Category Ones you'll see at any dog track this year.
I'll be posted an update up after the trials on Tuesday, and then one Thurs/Friday giving my low-down on the Arc draws, plus who I think will win the competition. If you want me to chat about anything on this blog, or have any views/comments, feel free to email us using the contact form on the website. I do appreciate feedback, good or bad!
Until Next Time!!
Chris,
Monday, 6 February 2012
Racing Preview - 8th Feb
A tad earlier than planned this week. I started my new degree at the start of the month and its swamping me with essays, alas I figured I'd do this first!
5 lots of trial stakes and a half decent 509 grace our circuit this week. Unfortunately the 685 didn't fill, bit o a shame really. Alas, hey ho, here's the preview of the meetings racing:
19:01 - The Abbey 509er
A 509 race kicks us off then, with quite an open race in front of us. I'll go through their chances trap by trap
1) Coolavanny Rock
Has some half decent Wimbledon times, including a recent 7 length romp up in 28.83. He's run the circuit before, having come to Swindon around this sort of time last year. He was involved in a Monkey competition that was eventually won by Deanridge Rage. Thus, the trip isn't an issue. One thing for me, however, is that I'd rather see him in 2 for 3. Watching his Hove run back, I feel he veers more middle. Still, he's a very lively contender for the in-form Norah Mac camp.
2) Eden Rumble
The Alma Keppie-trained Rumble ran very well on debut last week, just taking a little nudge off the 2nd, and ending up finishing second to Burwood Freddie. Watching him in trials, I didn't think he ran on all that brilliantly, not as I expected him to. However, watching him in the race last week, he certainly wants to see a 6 bend trip, and ran gallantly at the finish. He could do himself a favour here by coming away less-the-favourably and wait for the inevitable gap on the rails to open. A big player in this race.
3) Forest Ted
'Teddy B' (as he's known in the kennel) isn't finding the line easily at the moment. He's running really well up until the running, and then fading off quite rapidly. We all know that he cn run this trip, however one has to wonder whether a 480m trial stake would've sufficed. He'll do the same here, ping out and hope to hang on. The issue as I read it is the 4 dog, who's early pace in his trial was extremely impressive.
4) Sids Dream
The Chris Allsopp trained Dream ran a sensational trial last week. What impressed me most watching the trial was his early pace to the bend. Reading the rest of his card, you wouldn't think that he would be capable, and considering the 6 in his trial banged out, you wouldn't have thought he could've led at the bend. Alas, he seems to have taken a quick likening to the Abbey circuit. Again the choice of 509 over 480 is perculiar, why not go for a trial stake? Anywho, a 28.61 first look should definitely put his eye in in this race, as I can see him pinging and going way quite comfortably.
5) Silverton Blaze
This 509 trip is probably the wisest choice of trip for Blaze at the moment (though there were plenty of 6 bend races knocking about this week elsewhere!). I thought he ran reasonably well in the 480 last week, but the trip is just too short for him. The same really applies here, he does need further. However, he's capable of a very fast break and if you catch him on a good day, I reckon he would dip under 29.90 for this trip. A very good dog, but not one that would have my money.
6) Burwood Freddie
Well the old boy certainly made me look foolish for doubting him last week, coming up with the goods in the 509 last week. He has a particular liking for Swindon, so you should never really discount him from your selections. He seems to be able to do it both ways, both pinging and leading all the way, or coming back up the pack to win. Whatever happens, he'll be there or there abouts
My Pick: 4-2-3
19:32 - The Ladbrokes Mobile Arc Trial Stakes
I must say the weakest of the trial stakes on offer, however not without its headaches in picking a selection. It is a very good race in terms of a betting market. In fact, its probably the best race in terms of trap draws on the card!
1) Kilo
I think the comment for his last race should be changed really. It should read: 'Rls,JmpWell4,RanOn'. He had to practically hurdle a dog round the last bend! The line doesn't do him much justice, as I think he could've gained a bit of ground on Coolavanny Jane (not saying the dog would win, however). Again, 480m is too short for this dog. I think he should be seeing 575 Romford, 550 Henlow, that sort of trip. Alas, hey ho. Expect him to possibly pace up, but I don't see him winning this race.
2) Musical Hijack
Mal Cumner's runner comes to Swindon on the back of some graded form at Sittingbourne, which I'll be honest doesn't read the best to me. He's got a kick of early pace, but times such as 29.22 aren't particularly quick round there. Double digit price here.
3) Swift Tilly
She's a nuisance of a bitch is Tilly. I'm just waiting for that 28.95 run comes to her again! She is more than capable in this race, its just a matter of when she'll pop out and make the race her own. She's much more suited to a further distance, and again could possibly do with seeing a couple of other tracks. The draw doesn't seem to be much of an issue either. Definitely one to watch.
4) World Charm
Alfie! Again, its the same story with him really. If he pops out, he can win rather comfortably. If he's lying around 3rd or 4th out of the 2nd bend, he's a definite danger. I think he can win this race to be truthful, and I would expect a price of around 7/2.
5) Aghaburren Paddy
Paddy is spinning round after some rather terrific runs around Poole. It puts the past blogs into perspective when it comes to Poole form. The very good dogs nowadays are doing the 26.60 odd runs round there, rather than just breaking that 27.00 barrier. Well, Paddy has managed two consecutive big runs round there, which certainly should translate well here. The lack of a trial is an issue as ever, however I feel he's drawn well. he'll be a big player in this race, but will need the look.
6) Glenside Pearl
Pearl is becoming some-what of a suprise package round Swindon recently. I don't think shes run a particularly poor race since her ill-fated experience over 6 bends. I don't think shes exactly a competition-winning bitch, but she's certainly capable of winning her fair share of open races, and this race is no exception. She'll be there or there abouts
My Pick: 4-5-6
19:48 - The Ladbrokes Mobile Arc Trial Stakes
Easiest race on the card for me. See if you can guess by my comments who wins?
1) Seneca
I fear the old boys got alot to do in this race. He ran a very credible race last time ot (like I thought he would!) but this race is a slightly more difficult challenge I feel. He's drawn well, but there's a ton of early in the race, with the early pace, I feel, being capable of drawing quite clear of him.
2) Loyal Legacy
My NB of the night. The two recent runs round Nottingham are very credible, and the formline that catches my eye is leading Jordansoilutions to the line back in December. Hard to put a price on him however, but I think he'll enjoy the track. Join the queue and lump on!
3) Cleveland Lois
I must admit I feel that the two Dodd dogs have been put in the wrong 'division' of trial Stakes, as the 'Paddy' dog in the last race is much better than this dog, and Lois is arguably the poorer of the two. Nothing really stands out on the page about this dog. Swerve.
4) Corduff Star
First off, hats off in making the trip all the way down from Kinsley! Star has some decent lines round his local track, including an impressive 27.60 time in a graded race (admittedly not the strongest grade of dog ever). He has some impressive Irish form also. He'll place well here.
5) Omega Mick
The Poole runner comes back to the track after a graded campaign round Poole. He's certainly a pretty good dog, and is more than capable over this trip, but again could do with a tad further. 509 I think? A contender at around 6/1.
6) Ballycowen Dave
I was rather optimistic about this dog after his trials, however I feel that it would've made more sense for him to see a couple of graded races before being plunged in at the deep end. There's no doubt that he is a classy dog, and the penny will drop at some point, but he needs more experience in a race environment.
My Pick: 2-4-5 NB
20:04 - The Ladbrokes Mobile Arc Trial Stakes
We're slowly creeping through the divisions! Again, I think something has been amiss here. Quite simply Longwood Days is too good for these.
1) Maasai Spirit
The Alison Ingram trained dog recently trialled round in a respectable first look time, and certainly showed some good early to the bend. The 24.21 at Romford is certainly decent enough, however I feel he could come good around a gallop like Swindon. I reckon he could ru a big race.
2) Farloe Orion
To me the best drawn dog in the race. Orion is certainly classy enough, and he can post some very respectable times. He'll be wanting to show a slight flash of early here to go round with trap 3. Trap 2, for me, is his trap.
3) Broadstrand Bill
A semi finalist last year (I believe?!) has got plenty of wins under his belt in graded company at Wimbledon. However, I don't think he's up to this task. The times round the 'Don aren't anything particularly special. Again, its a case that nothing really leaps off the page.
4) Longwood Days
The winner of the Sussex Cup, and a consistant 29.50 dog round Hove, should really be in a higher division of these trial stakes. His recent race form round Belle Vue and Newcastle might not read very well, however, in the case of Belle Vue, the track just wouldn't suit. He's recently been trialling back in at Monmore, posting 28.51 and 28.47 trial times. I recommend you taking any + price about this dog. My NAP.
5) Mays Gold
The first of the Corrin Price's runners is a rather handy dog. Certainly, the 28.22 OR winning time back in December is pretty awesome, and he's recently won an open at Nottingham. He can certainly track down Day's in trap 4!
6) Mercurial Star
Sammy arguably needed the run last time out, and rather blew up coming off of the last bend. Mercurial of old would've seen off the competition in that race hands down. He'll come good in a couple of runs time. Remember, before last week, he hadn't raced since November. He's a player against Longwood Days.
My Pick: 4-6-5
20:19 - The Ladbrokes Mobile Arc Trial Stakes
This is a very perculiar make up of a race, as one particular seeding mucks the race right up in my opinion.
1) Coom Bullet
A very classy greyhound, however seeded wrong. He ran definite middle last time out, so why he is seeded rails is once again a myth. The worst part is that he's drawn red. He really doesn't want to be so close to the rail. Ideally, he could've drawn 3 in this race, alas thats draws for you. He's still a good greyhound, and could make them run in this.
2) Fiddlers Green
Green won here last time in the 480, in what was a rather weak time. 10/1 just shows what realistically his chances were. He's been thrown in at the deep end this time in terms of the division, and he's once again a 10/1 chance.
3) Glenbane Air
Air made a very good debut for the Hutton clan last week, and he can follow up here with another win in this race. There's a 28.60 ready to come from this dog come Wednesday night. I've got a funny feeling this dog could be a very big player in The Arc.
4) Sable Blitz
Again, trialled on last Saturday. Once again nothing really leaps off the page for me in terms of form. You can argue that the 24.35 is really the best relative time he's got on the card. I don't think he can quite cut it in this race. Avoid.
5) Bit View Micko
Now this is a rather useful dog. He has some impressive trials round Perry Barr (28.32) and at Monmore (28.52), and has recent winning form round Perry Barr and Nottingham (I believe the last run at Nottingham was some sort of 2 round comp thing, not 100%). Miss Price's runner is definitely a contender in this race.
6) Trevi You Go
Mr. Simmonds' runner actually won here last year on Sky night, impressively winning the Puppy 480m race after coming in as a reserve (12/1 aswell, I believe. Talk about a good memory!) He's got some good times on this card, including a 26.42 round Harlow (I think that's good, to be honest I need to research the track!) and a 24.18 at Romford (beating Slick Citi). He's the widest of wide runners, so 6 is ideal, and as the sole wide runner in the race, should get a pretty clean ride of it.
My Pick: 3-5-6
20:36 - The Ladbrokes Mobile Arc Trial Stakes
The most difficult race of the night to crack. Expect a good market.
1) Daughter Of Peg
The Chris Allsopp trained bitch has some pretty classy form at all sorts of tracks, with her taking a particular liking to her home track Monmore. One thing that slightly concens me about her, however, is that she has had rather alot of running. She's only 3 years old, however I've followed her career right from debut and she's had alot of racing. Alas, she has bundles of early pace, however leading Ding to the bend could be an issue. Red is her trap.
2) Ding Hero
Alas, I think last week finally proved that he's the dog most thought he was. After watching his first trial, I had him in the notebook as 'One To Watch'. He delivered last week, with an electric 2.32 split and a great 28.74 winning time. He's capable of winning a Group 1, no quiestion. However, he'll need to keep himself foot perfect at the lids, as more of the same last week will have him winning when it matters. Winner, Winner, Chicken Dinner!
3) Swan Storm
The 3rd of Miss Price's runners here relies on a quick beak for his racing, howefer in the race I think he'd be better off not. By the looks of things he needs the red draw, and getting onto that rail wont be easy with Peg and Ding in the way. Certainly fast enough to win, but the draw is an issue.
4) Hugo You Go
The other Simmonds dog running on Weds has some fab form over Romford's 575m tri. Narrowly missing out on a finalist spot in the Coronation Cup, Hugo looks to be a very big contender in this race. He's able to break well over these 4 bend trips, and looking at the trial time at Harlow, 1) It makes my earlier comment about Harlow times void, and 2) he's a bloomin fast dog!
5) Sawpit Sensation
Half brother to Hugo You Go, Sensation has some very good form around Nottingham and Perry Barr, including equalling the track record at his home track. The draw looks absolutely ideal for him, and he'll run a big race. Expect a battle between him and Ding.
6) Grandard Bound
The Stuart Mason trained dog has a stunning line of form around Doncaster, recording an excellent time of 29.34 for the 483m tough gallop. However since then, barring the trial around Sheffield, he hasn't really done all that much credible in terms of racing. However, Mr. Mason wouldn't do the trip down to Swindon if he didn't think he had a contender for the Arc, so be wary.
My Pick: 2-5-6
My Graded NAP/NB
NAP: Fermoy Lets Go
NB: Zeagle Zamora
5 lots of trial stakes and a half decent 509 grace our circuit this week. Unfortunately the 685 didn't fill, bit o a shame really. Alas, hey ho, here's the preview of the meetings racing:
19:01 - The Abbey 509er
A 509 race kicks us off then, with quite an open race in front of us. I'll go through their chances trap by trap
1) Coolavanny Rock
Has some half decent Wimbledon times, including a recent 7 length romp up in 28.83. He's run the circuit before, having come to Swindon around this sort of time last year. He was involved in a Monkey competition that was eventually won by Deanridge Rage. Thus, the trip isn't an issue. One thing for me, however, is that I'd rather see him in 2 for 3. Watching his Hove run back, I feel he veers more middle. Still, he's a very lively contender for the in-form Norah Mac camp.
2) Eden Rumble
The Alma Keppie-trained Rumble ran very well on debut last week, just taking a little nudge off the 2nd, and ending up finishing second to Burwood Freddie. Watching him in trials, I didn't think he ran on all that brilliantly, not as I expected him to. However, watching him in the race last week, he certainly wants to see a 6 bend trip, and ran gallantly at the finish. He could do himself a favour here by coming away less-the-favourably and wait for the inevitable gap on the rails to open. A big player in this race.
3) Forest Ted
'Teddy B' (as he's known in the kennel) isn't finding the line easily at the moment. He's running really well up until the running, and then fading off quite rapidly. We all know that he cn run this trip, however one has to wonder whether a 480m trial stake would've sufficed. He'll do the same here, ping out and hope to hang on. The issue as I read it is the 4 dog, who's early pace in his trial was extremely impressive.
4) Sids Dream
The Chris Allsopp trained Dream ran a sensational trial last week. What impressed me most watching the trial was his early pace to the bend. Reading the rest of his card, you wouldn't think that he would be capable, and considering the 6 in his trial banged out, you wouldn't have thought he could've led at the bend. Alas, he seems to have taken a quick likening to the Abbey circuit. Again the choice of 509 over 480 is perculiar, why not go for a trial stake? Anywho, a 28.61 first look should definitely put his eye in in this race, as I can see him pinging and going way quite comfortably.
5) Silverton Blaze
This 509 trip is probably the wisest choice of trip for Blaze at the moment (though there were plenty of 6 bend races knocking about this week elsewhere!). I thought he ran reasonably well in the 480 last week, but the trip is just too short for him. The same really applies here, he does need further. However, he's capable of a very fast break and if you catch him on a good day, I reckon he would dip under 29.90 for this trip. A very good dog, but not one that would have my money.
6) Burwood Freddie
Well the old boy certainly made me look foolish for doubting him last week, coming up with the goods in the 509 last week. He has a particular liking for Swindon, so you should never really discount him from your selections. He seems to be able to do it both ways, both pinging and leading all the way, or coming back up the pack to win. Whatever happens, he'll be there or there abouts
My Pick: 4-2-3
19:32 - The Ladbrokes Mobile Arc Trial Stakes
I must say the weakest of the trial stakes on offer, however not without its headaches in picking a selection. It is a very good race in terms of a betting market. In fact, its probably the best race in terms of trap draws on the card!
1) Kilo
I think the comment for his last race should be changed really. It should read: 'Rls,JmpWell4,RanOn'. He had to practically hurdle a dog round the last bend! The line doesn't do him much justice, as I think he could've gained a bit of ground on Coolavanny Jane (not saying the dog would win, however). Again, 480m is too short for this dog. I think he should be seeing 575 Romford, 550 Henlow, that sort of trip. Alas, hey ho. Expect him to possibly pace up, but I don't see him winning this race.
2) Musical Hijack
Mal Cumner's runner comes to Swindon on the back of some graded form at Sittingbourne, which I'll be honest doesn't read the best to me. He's got a kick of early pace, but times such as 29.22 aren't particularly quick round there. Double digit price here.
3) Swift Tilly
She's a nuisance of a bitch is Tilly. I'm just waiting for that 28.95 run comes to her again! She is more than capable in this race, its just a matter of when she'll pop out and make the race her own. She's much more suited to a further distance, and again could possibly do with seeing a couple of other tracks. The draw doesn't seem to be much of an issue either. Definitely one to watch.
4) World Charm
Alfie! Again, its the same story with him really. If he pops out, he can win rather comfortably. If he's lying around 3rd or 4th out of the 2nd bend, he's a definite danger. I think he can win this race to be truthful, and I would expect a price of around 7/2.
5) Aghaburren Paddy
Paddy is spinning round after some rather terrific runs around Poole. It puts the past blogs into perspective when it comes to Poole form. The very good dogs nowadays are doing the 26.60 odd runs round there, rather than just breaking that 27.00 barrier. Well, Paddy has managed two consecutive big runs round there, which certainly should translate well here. The lack of a trial is an issue as ever, however I feel he's drawn well. he'll be a big player in this race, but will need the look.
6) Glenside Pearl
Pearl is becoming some-what of a suprise package round Swindon recently. I don't think shes run a particularly poor race since her ill-fated experience over 6 bends. I don't think shes exactly a competition-winning bitch, but she's certainly capable of winning her fair share of open races, and this race is no exception. She'll be there or there abouts
My Pick: 4-5-6
19:48 - The Ladbrokes Mobile Arc Trial Stakes
Easiest race on the card for me. See if you can guess by my comments who wins?
1) Seneca
I fear the old boys got alot to do in this race. He ran a very credible race last time ot (like I thought he would!) but this race is a slightly more difficult challenge I feel. He's drawn well, but there's a ton of early in the race, with the early pace, I feel, being capable of drawing quite clear of him.
2) Loyal Legacy
My NB of the night. The two recent runs round Nottingham are very credible, and the formline that catches my eye is leading Jordansoilutions to the line back in December. Hard to put a price on him however, but I think he'll enjoy the track. Join the queue and lump on!
3) Cleveland Lois
I must admit I feel that the two Dodd dogs have been put in the wrong 'division' of trial Stakes, as the 'Paddy' dog in the last race is much better than this dog, and Lois is arguably the poorer of the two. Nothing really stands out on the page about this dog. Swerve.
4) Corduff Star
First off, hats off in making the trip all the way down from Kinsley! Star has some decent lines round his local track, including an impressive 27.60 time in a graded race (admittedly not the strongest grade of dog ever). He has some impressive Irish form also. He'll place well here.
5) Omega Mick
The Poole runner comes back to the track after a graded campaign round Poole. He's certainly a pretty good dog, and is more than capable over this trip, but again could do with a tad further. 509 I think? A contender at around 6/1.
6) Ballycowen Dave
I was rather optimistic about this dog after his trials, however I feel that it would've made more sense for him to see a couple of graded races before being plunged in at the deep end. There's no doubt that he is a classy dog, and the penny will drop at some point, but he needs more experience in a race environment.
My Pick: 2-4-5 NB
20:04 - The Ladbrokes Mobile Arc Trial Stakes
We're slowly creeping through the divisions! Again, I think something has been amiss here. Quite simply Longwood Days is too good for these.
1) Maasai Spirit
The Alison Ingram trained dog recently trialled round in a respectable first look time, and certainly showed some good early to the bend. The 24.21 at Romford is certainly decent enough, however I feel he could come good around a gallop like Swindon. I reckon he could ru a big race.
2) Farloe Orion
To me the best drawn dog in the race. Orion is certainly classy enough, and he can post some very respectable times. He'll be wanting to show a slight flash of early here to go round with trap 3. Trap 2, for me, is his trap.
3) Broadstrand Bill
A semi finalist last year (I believe?!) has got plenty of wins under his belt in graded company at Wimbledon. However, I don't think he's up to this task. The times round the 'Don aren't anything particularly special. Again, its a case that nothing really leaps off the page.
4) Longwood Days
The winner of the Sussex Cup, and a consistant 29.50 dog round Hove, should really be in a higher division of these trial stakes. His recent race form round Belle Vue and Newcastle might not read very well, however, in the case of Belle Vue, the track just wouldn't suit. He's recently been trialling back in at Monmore, posting 28.51 and 28.47 trial times. I recommend you taking any + price about this dog. My NAP.
5) Mays Gold
The first of the Corrin Price's runners is a rather handy dog. Certainly, the 28.22 OR winning time back in December is pretty awesome, and he's recently won an open at Nottingham. He can certainly track down Day's in trap 4!
6) Mercurial Star
Sammy arguably needed the run last time out, and rather blew up coming off of the last bend. Mercurial of old would've seen off the competition in that race hands down. He'll come good in a couple of runs time. Remember, before last week, he hadn't raced since November. He's a player against Longwood Days.
My Pick: 4-6-5
20:19 - The Ladbrokes Mobile Arc Trial Stakes
This is a very perculiar make up of a race, as one particular seeding mucks the race right up in my opinion.
1) Coom Bullet
A very classy greyhound, however seeded wrong. He ran definite middle last time out, so why he is seeded rails is once again a myth. The worst part is that he's drawn red. He really doesn't want to be so close to the rail. Ideally, he could've drawn 3 in this race, alas thats draws for you. He's still a good greyhound, and could make them run in this.
2) Fiddlers Green
Green won here last time in the 480, in what was a rather weak time. 10/1 just shows what realistically his chances were. He's been thrown in at the deep end this time in terms of the division, and he's once again a 10/1 chance.
3) Glenbane Air
Air made a very good debut for the Hutton clan last week, and he can follow up here with another win in this race. There's a 28.60 ready to come from this dog come Wednesday night. I've got a funny feeling this dog could be a very big player in The Arc.
4) Sable Blitz
Again, trialled on last Saturday. Once again nothing really leaps off the page for me in terms of form. You can argue that the 24.35 is really the best relative time he's got on the card. I don't think he can quite cut it in this race. Avoid.
5) Bit View Micko
Now this is a rather useful dog. He has some impressive trials round Perry Barr (28.32) and at Monmore (28.52), and has recent winning form round Perry Barr and Nottingham (I believe the last run at Nottingham was some sort of 2 round comp thing, not 100%). Miss Price's runner is definitely a contender in this race.
6) Trevi You Go
Mr. Simmonds' runner actually won here last year on Sky night, impressively winning the Puppy 480m race after coming in as a reserve (12/1 aswell, I believe. Talk about a good memory!) He's got some good times on this card, including a 26.42 round Harlow (I think that's good, to be honest I need to research the track!) and a 24.18 at Romford (beating Slick Citi). He's the widest of wide runners, so 6 is ideal, and as the sole wide runner in the race, should get a pretty clean ride of it.
My Pick: 3-5-6
20:36 - The Ladbrokes Mobile Arc Trial Stakes
The most difficult race of the night to crack. Expect a good market.
1) Daughter Of Peg
The Chris Allsopp trained bitch has some pretty classy form at all sorts of tracks, with her taking a particular liking to her home track Monmore. One thing that slightly concens me about her, however, is that she has had rather alot of running. She's only 3 years old, however I've followed her career right from debut and she's had alot of racing. Alas, she has bundles of early pace, however leading Ding to the bend could be an issue. Red is her trap.
2) Ding Hero
Alas, I think last week finally proved that he's the dog most thought he was. After watching his first trial, I had him in the notebook as 'One To Watch'. He delivered last week, with an electric 2.32 split and a great 28.74 winning time. He's capable of winning a Group 1, no quiestion. However, he'll need to keep himself foot perfect at the lids, as more of the same last week will have him winning when it matters. Winner, Winner, Chicken Dinner!
3) Swan Storm
The 3rd of Miss Price's runners here relies on a quick beak for his racing, howefer in the race I think he'd be better off not. By the looks of things he needs the red draw, and getting onto that rail wont be easy with Peg and Ding in the way. Certainly fast enough to win, but the draw is an issue.
4) Hugo You Go
The other Simmonds dog running on Weds has some fab form over Romford's 575m tri. Narrowly missing out on a finalist spot in the Coronation Cup, Hugo looks to be a very big contender in this race. He's able to break well over these 4 bend trips, and looking at the trial time at Harlow, 1) It makes my earlier comment about Harlow times void, and 2) he's a bloomin fast dog!
5) Sawpit Sensation
Half brother to Hugo You Go, Sensation has some very good form around Nottingham and Perry Barr, including equalling the track record at his home track. The draw looks absolutely ideal for him, and he'll run a big race. Expect a battle between him and Ding.
6) Grandard Bound
The Stuart Mason trained dog has a stunning line of form around Doncaster, recording an excellent time of 29.34 for the 483m tough gallop. However since then, barring the trial around Sheffield, he hasn't really done all that much credible in terms of racing. However, Mr. Mason wouldn't do the trip down to Swindon if he didn't think he had a contender for the Arc, so be wary.
My Pick: 2-5-6
My Graded NAP/NB
NAP: Fermoy Lets Go
NB: Zeagle Zamora
Sunday, 5 February 2012
What a week!
First off, I'll kick off by congratulating Terry King (Asst. RM) and his now wife Charlotte King on their marriage on Friday. Twas a cracking day, though as I said I felt that a good ole' Friday BAGS could've been a sufficient venue for such a day!
I know it seems like yonks ago that the opens took place, however I thought it would be good for a quick roundup. Anyone that read my lips after the Hernandez run will tell you 'he's done the clock'. What A Run!! To be fair, the potential was always there, there was a flash run coming from him, and as I said to kennelhand Ben McBride; "Peaked about a month too soon!" Still, cracking run, and well done Mr. Picinelli and the Stringer camp, you've hell of a dog there.
Other notable performances including a certain Ding Hero. Hard to believe he was a maiden before this run really?! He didn't half ping from the 2 box, and took the race for his own. This dog has been in my book since day 1, and he's just peaking at the right time. He has a big future. Remember, he's only an Aug'09, still bags of miles in him yet!
Glenbane Air made a successful debut in what was the most moderate of the opens. Certain of a big future, he'll need a couple more spins around Swindon I think to get his track craft right, as he made a couple of mistakes in run-in (that's not a dig, mearly an observation). The other trial stake winner was Tinas Zodiac, who made the Houfton's journey down from Dunham Land all the sweeter. The run just goes to prove my point, and I'll keep saying it, you need a look round Swindon.
I didn't do all that bad on the tipping this week, and I'll be keeping it up for next weeks, as we had plenty of entries for trial stakes again this time around (and there's some pretty tasty greyhounds in amongst the entries!)
On another note, I do appreciate people taking the time to read this blog. Really does cheer me up hearing people have read it! If you'd like to see anything covered, give me a shout and Ill cover it.
All the best,
I know it seems like yonks ago that the opens took place, however I thought it would be good for a quick roundup. Anyone that read my lips after the Hernandez run will tell you 'he's done the clock'. What A Run!! To be fair, the potential was always there, there was a flash run coming from him, and as I said to kennelhand Ben McBride; "Peaked about a month too soon!" Still, cracking run, and well done Mr. Picinelli and the Stringer camp, you've hell of a dog there.
Other notable performances including a certain Ding Hero. Hard to believe he was a maiden before this run really?! He didn't half ping from the 2 box, and took the race for his own. This dog has been in my book since day 1, and he's just peaking at the right time. He has a big future. Remember, he's only an Aug'09, still bags of miles in him yet!
Glenbane Air made a successful debut in what was the most moderate of the opens. Certain of a big future, he'll need a couple more spins around Swindon I think to get his track craft right, as he made a couple of mistakes in run-in (that's not a dig, mearly an observation). The other trial stake winner was Tinas Zodiac, who made the Houfton's journey down from Dunham Land all the sweeter. The run just goes to prove my point, and I'll keep saying it, you need a look round Swindon.
I didn't do all that bad on the tipping this week, and I'll be keeping it up for next weeks, as we had plenty of entries for trial stakes again this time around (and there's some pretty tasty greyhounds in amongst the entries!)
On another note, I do appreciate people taking the time to read this blog. Really does cheer me up hearing people have read it! If you'd like to see anything covered, give me a shout and Ill cover it.
All the best,
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