After the disaster that was last week's tipping, I've actually taken a bit of time to look over the opens this week. Fingers crossed I've found you a couple of winners!
20:45 - The Stadiauk.com Standard
My Pick (Again): Taranis Rex
I'm siding with class once again in this race, in the form of Kevin Hutton's Taranis Rex. Arguably this week's standard race is very much weaker than last weeks, alas I think Rex has the class above to lead these home. In his last race, he showed none of his trademark trapping and early pace, as well as getting squeezed on the run up. For sentimental reasons aswell I hope he wins!
Places then, and I'm going to side with the newbie to Swindon, Brian King's Shelbourne Sally. Sally's been trialling rather well recently, and will be top grade here eventually (this last OR will class as a final 'grading on' trial for her. To be brutally honest, this race and the other open are pretty poor in quality, alas expect some of the lesser fancied dogs to run a big race.
As for the others, and your eye will always glance to Matty Dartnall's Farloe Skywalker. Skywalker is a veteran now, and realistically his better racing days are behind him, however you can expect a big run from him on the outside.
My Trio: 2-4-6
21:36 - The Book The Paddock Bar 509er
My Pick: Forest Bonjo
Easy race this one, again a race severely lacking in quality. You can land a quick fire double here (albeit at a short price) by backing Paul Foster's Forest Bonjo. Bonjo, a recent runner up of Summer Stayers Final at Monmore, is a class above here, and should romp up comfortably here. Not alot more to say really!
For the places, I'm siding with Droopys Harper. Kevin Hutton's charge has been down to Hove for a 515 maiden recently, so this 509 trip should be up his street.mexpect a strng finish from this one. Peter Swadden's Wise Totty should be there or there abouts also.
My Pick: 5-4-3
I'm very sorry that the previews are so brief, its just that the quality is quite distinctly lacking. The sheer amount of opens about at the moment is just mad. Hopefully on Sunday I'll be blogging about my thoughts on the OR scene as a whole, and how things can be improved.
Happy Punting!
Friday, 7 September 2012
Saturday, 1 September 2012
OR Preview - 1st September
Good afternoon folks, and welcome to another edition of my ramblings!
I thought I'd take you through tonight's open races.
And just a heads up, I haven't looked at the RP picks to anything before hand, this is all solely my opinion!
20:11 - The September Sprint Stakes
My Pick: Shreyas Trojan
I must say that, as a punter, I tend to swerve sprints really. Realistically, anything can happen, and your pick only has to fluff his lines to cost them the race. I don't know many that play sprints to be honest!
Shreyas Trojan, trained by Graham Holford at Coventry, has been only sprinting recently at his local track, however in his last couple of runs he's dipped under the 16 second mark for their sprint trip, which is a good indication of a very good time. In his last run, he recorded 15.89, winning by 3 lengths. It all depends really on whether he takes to the Swindon circuit and the differences with the traps. I think he could be a fair value bet, with a couple of the other dogs that are in the race. Expect around 5/2.
The two Hutton dogs, Glenbane Air and Kilmalady Biffo, are interesting runners here, and both have chances. Air, who recently posted a sprint win at Coventry, to me never really looked to be a true four bend performer against opposition, and I think the transition to sprinting is a very good idea. I do think he can become a top sprinter. The reason I've swerved him here is, if you've read any of the other blogs, is the draw. I don't like the red box for sprinters, and though he is a bang railer, I reckon he'd trap better from 2.
Biffo is an experienced campaigner now, and has recently also won a sprint open, and has form over the short 4 bends. In the opposite to what I think about Glenbane, I think this dog is at his best in the short 4 bend races. He's a dog that for me takes a couple of looks at a track, however once he's settled his early pace is phenomenal.
As for the other runners, Tseal in trap 2, though a graded favourite of mine, isn't up to this class. Although the trial times are very good, there is a massive scope of difference between trials and open racing. The last couple of four bend trials at Coventry aren't very promising either. Bealady Rover, once a regular winner of A1's and sprint opens, has gone really off the boil recently and is swerved here. Aegean Bullet looks outclassed here.
My Trio: 4-1-3
21:02 - The September Standard Stakes
My Pick: Taranis Rex
We've got ourselves a 480m open next, with all local dogs in the mix! My pick here is rather the standout pick of the race, and that is the former Gymcrack champion Taranis Rex.
Rexy, once trained by Nick Colton and now in the hands of the Hutton camp, has recently had his first race back from a near year lay off after a horrible Achilles injury. I praise the patience of owner Roly Woodcock and everyone involved with this dog to take as much time as was possible to get him back.
His trials round Swindon have been great, regularly posting 28.60's, and showing the trademark early pace that made him such a force in the Betfred Gymcrack at Kinsley last year. He is, without doubt, an incredibly fast dog. I must admit that I do question the decision to run him at Coventry. Obviously he would've needed the run etc, however I always had Rex down as a short four bend runner (Honestly, I think even Swindon is a serious test for him). Coventry's standard trip is the toughest standard trip in the country to get in my opinion, and realistically he didn't look to get it very well. Still, this is the 'homecoming' race for him. He should clear the one dog easily, and with River Dubh keeping directly middle, he should get a clear passage up the rail.
For the forecast linker, I'm sticking with a favourite of mine, Ardmayle Mohammed. Chris Stringer's charge showed some cracking early pace in his last run (for a dog that I considered a stayer, I was rather gobsmacked) and recorded a brilliant 28.75, beating a good A1 field. With Hey Diego on his inside having the better early, he should get a clear pitch on the wide outside, and could mow down the early pace through the middle (I'm envisaging some trouble through the middle, with Kays To Blame and River Dubh having such good early)
My Pick: 2-6-3
21:36 - The September Stayers Stakes
My Pick: Forest Bonjo
This is a cracking little race, and I'm siding with the Ladbrokes Festival Stayers runner up Forest Bonjo. Bonjo, trained by Paul Foster, recently ran a couple of brilliant races at Monmore, against come very good competition. He stayed on very strong over the 630m trip and, even though I didn't think he'd stay the 685m trip here very well, I think this is ideal (and maximum) distance. To be fair, he beat most of these in the last 685m open race he won here.
Penskey Rain is the one to watch coming home. The St. Leger Finalist recently went over the marathon trip at Coventry, which he seemed to see out very well. He's rather one paced all the way round, and the translation to Marathon's, in my opinion, is a good move. I'd have him at Monmore for a couple of looks before the TV Trophy. He'll be flying home over this trip, and he loved the Swindon circuit.
Wise Totty is a Swindon favourite, however again she seems to have very much gone off the boil. Her last OR win was in a marathon down at Poole against some rather mediocre opposition, She needs to find a bit of form really to make a big impact. However, she does always run her heart out and, again, loves the circuit.
As for the other runners, Twisted Soul is an interesting runner for Laurence Wynn. I tipped him up last time at Swindon off of his good Coventry form, however again he seems to have gone off the boil. Scala Cosey is another runner that has some OR wins elsewhere at Oxford. My problem with her is that I thought she ran a very flat trial on Tuesday, and the quick run, I don't think, will do her alot of good. She can become purely Open class, if only she would go to another track other than Oxford for her races. Silverton Blaze is the second Maurice Walsh runner, who, to be honest, never runs a race the same. He could romp up at 10/1, who knows. He'll be running on at the finish.
My Pick: 5-4-2
Happy Punting Folks!
Chris,
I thought I'd take you through tonight's open races.
And just a heads up, I haven't looked at the RP picks to anything before hand, this is all solely my opinion!
20:11 - The September Sprint Stakes
My Pick: Shreyas Trojan
I must say that, as a punter, I tend to swerve sprints really. Realistically, anything can happen, and your pick only has to fluff his lines to cost them the race. I don't know many that play sprints to be honest!
Shreyas Trojan, trained by Graham Holford at Coventry, has been only sprinting recently at his local track, however in his last couple of runs he's dipped under the 16 second mark for their sprint trip, which is a good indication of a very good time. In his last run, he recorded 15.89, winning by 3 lengths. It all depends really on whether he takes to the Swindon circuit and the differences with the traps. I think he could be a fair value bet, with a couple of the other dogs that are in the race. Expect around 5/2.
The two Hutton dogs, Glenbane Air and Kilmalady Biffo, are interesting runners here, and both have chances. Air, who recently posted a sprint win at Coventry, to me never really looked to be a true four bend performer against opposition, and I think the transition to sprinting is a very good idea. I do think he can become a top sprinter. The reason I've swerved him here is, if you've read any of the other blogs, is the draw. I don't like the red box for sprinters, and though he is a bang railer, I reckon he'd trap better from 2.
Biffo is an experienced campaigner now, and has recently also won a sprint open, and has form over the short 4 bends. In the opposite to what I think about Glenbane, I think this dog is at his best in the short 4 bend races. He's a dog that for me takes a couple of looks at a track, however once he's settled his early pace is phenomenal.
As for the other runners, Tseal in trap 2, though a graded favourite of mine, isn't up to this class. Although the trial times are very good, there is a massive scope of difference between trials and open racing. The last couple of four bend trials at Coventry aren't very promising either. Bealady Rover, once a regular winner of A1's and sprint opens, has gone really off the boil recently and is swerved here. Aegean Bullet looks outclassed here.
My Trio: 4-1-3
21:02 - The September Standard Stakes
My Pick: Taranis Rex
We've got ourselves a 480m open next, with all local dogs in the mix! My pick here is rather the standout pick of the race, and that is the former Gymcrack champion Taranis Rex.
Rexy, once trained by Nick Colton and now in the hands of the Hutton camp, has recently had his first race back from a near year lay off after a horrible Achilles injury. I praise the patience of owner Roly Woodcock and everyone involved with this dog to take as much time as was possible to get him back.
His trials round Swindon have been great, regularly posting 28.60's, and showing the trademark early pace that made him such a force in the Betfred Gymcrack at Kinsley last year. He is, without doubt, an incredibly fast dog. I must admit that I do question the decision to run him at Coventry. Obviously he would've needed the run etc, however I always had Rex down as a short four bend runner (Honestly, I think even Swindon is a serious test for him). Coventry's standard trip is the toughest standard trip in the country to get in my opinion, and realistically he didn't look to get it very well. Still, this is the 'homecoming' race for him. He should clear the one dog easily, and with River Dubh keeping directly middle, he should get a clear passage up the rail.
For the forecast linker, I'm sticking with a favourite of mine, Ardmayle Mohammed. Chris Stringer's charge showed some cracking early pace in his last run (for a dog that I considered a stayer, I was rather gobsmacked) and recorded a brilliant 28.75, beating a good A1 field. With Hey Diego on his inside having the better early, he should get a clear pitch on the wide outside, and could mow down the early pace through the middle (I'm envisaging some trouble through the middle, with Kays To Blame and River Dubh having such good early)
My Pick: 2-6-3
21:36 - The September Stayers Stakes
My Pick: Forest Bonjo
This is a cracking little race, and I'm siding with the Ladbrokes Festival Stayers runner up Forest Bonjo. Bonjo, trained by Paul Foster, recently ran a couple of brilliant races at Monmore, against come very good competition. He stayed on very strong over the 630m trip and, even though I didn't think he'd stay the 685m trip here very well, I think this is ideal (and maximum) distance. To be fair, he beat most of these in the last 685m open race he won here.
Penskey Rain is the one to watch coming home. The St. Leger Finalist recently went over the marathon trip at Coventry, which he seemed to see out very well. He's rather one paced all the way round, and the translation to Marathon's, in my opinion, is a good move. I'd have him at Monmore for a couple of looks before the TV Trophy. He'll be flying home over this trip, and he loved the Swindon circuit.
Wise Totty is a Swindon favourite, however again she seems to have very much gone off the boil. Her last OR win was in a marathon down at Poole against some rather mediocre opposition, She needs to find a bit of form really to make a big impact. However, she does always run her heart out and, again, loves the circuit.
As for the other runners, Twisted Soul is an interesting runner for Laurence Wynn. I tipped him up last time at Swindon off of his good Coventry form, however again he seems to have gone off the boil. Scala Cosey is another runner that has some OR wins elsewhere at Oxford. My problem with her is that I thought she ran a very flat trial on Tuesday, and the quick run, I don't think, will do her alot of good. She can become purely Open class, if only she would go to another track other than Oxford for her races. Silverton Blaze is the second Maurice Walsh runner, who, to be honest, never runs a race the same. He could romp up at 10/1, who knows. He'll be running on at the finish.
My Pick: 5-4-2
Happy Punting Folks!
Chris,
Monday, 13 August 2012
To me, to you, to me, to you
Apologise for not having posted my ramblings recently. I've been rather busy and unfortunately I've not had a lot of time to sit in front of the blank page.
Greyhound racing, in the past couple of months, seems to have begun to freefall from the gentle gliding that it has been. Dog numbers are quite clearly down, not just at Swindon but at every track, owner numbers are down, and generally morale, it has to be said, is very low at the moment in the sport.
Before I go spouting, I'll just point out that I'm discussing greyhound racing as a whole here rather than Swindon.
The problem is that everyone blames each other without actually looking at a solution to the problem. Promoters, in particular, seem to be doing very little to actually promote ownership at their particular track. In the race card, there should be a page dedicated to publicizing trainers numbers, whereby members of the public can make inquiries to trainers about such things as retired greyhounds and ownership.
At the same time, I really believe in Syndication. At Swindon, we have several different syndicates such as The House Of Razor and others that get people into ownership for a relatively low fee. You cannot advertise greyhound racing as a cheap sport to get involved in anymore, as quite honestly it's not. Take this example:
Mr. X buys a pup from Ireland for £300 say (I know it's euros!), he transports said pup to the UK, at a cost of roughly £100. Pup has to be marked up and registered, and I believe this costs roughly £40. Then the pup has to be inoculated and micro chipped, so add another £30. Then, you have to grade the pup on and let the pup settle in. In the best case circumstance of a month to grade on, you have to take account of your kenneling fee's of £200 roughly before you even race. From this, that pup that Mr. X bought for £300 has turned into a £6/700 dog before he's even had a race. I'm sorry, but for the average Joe on the street, to have to fork out such sums in this economic climate (one thing that people seem to easily forget, WE ARE IN A RECESSION!). If this were a syndicate of, say, 10 people, then the costs are cut dramatically.
Of course, there is a flip side to this argument, one for which I do tend to agree with. Hobbies cost money, this is true of everything. When you go to watch Swindon Town on a Saturday, you spend your £20 (haven't been to footy in years!) on a ticket, buy a program etc, and you have a good time. Thus, every week, your paying out, but it's your hobby and for your enjoyment. The same goes for owning a racing greyhound.
Again, the other way of looking at this argument is that the BAGS situation at tracks means that you need a supply of greyhounds to run, which in turn has made a lot of trainers have their own dogs. The problem with this, in terms of getting owners, is that there is a serious line between a paying owner and a trainer/owner. I have spoken to people who get annoyed when they see owner/trainer dogs in races such as the Owner's Bonus Series, however surely these trainers are just as much owners as outsiders?
The overwhelming issue of prize money is one that is constantly bought up at near enough every track I attend. It's a real bug bearer for a lot of people. Again, I'm on the fence really as I don't actually own a greyhound, but I understand people's points.
Back to Mr. X again and his pup. His pup comes out for his first race, in an A8. For running in the race, he picks up £17. For winning this race, he wins £33 (using Swindon's prize money as an example). So, if the pup wins 4 A8's in a month, by my count, the owner will still have a £70 odd bill at the end. That to me is a bit off really.
However, the flip side that alot of people seem to want to avoid, is that greyhound tracks have to make money. Promoting the racing to 6-packers and filling up the restaurant, as much as alot of people dislike some of the racegoers that attend, is part of the track making a profit at the end of the year as a business. Prize money levels, I'm sure, are looked at in terms of turnover etc. You have to remember also, that the outgoings in greyhound racing really are significant. If you look at just the general running, you'll see:
> Hare Equipment: rollers, hare cable, skid, windsocks, hare motor maintenance
> Track: Tractor w/diesel to plate the track, watering the surface, general upkeep
> Kennels: fresh bedding each meeting, staffing, general upkeep
> Staffing: Racing Office, Super-Awesome Cameraman, Haredriver, Restaurant, Tote.
> Stock: Bars and food outlets.
> Advertising: Creating media, distribution
> IT: Tote systems, televisions, computer systems, ongoing maintenance
Just to run a meeting, there's alot of outgoings before you start, and also it's worth considering that greyhound racing isn't a daily occurence.
I've tried to look at both sides of the fence in looking at greyhound ownership (and confused myself writing this in the process!). What everyone should be able to see, however, is that we need to attract new owners to the sport.
I feel, what is required, is that a group of promoters and owners need to come together and carefully work out exactly what is needed to get greyhound racing on the up again. Rather than everyone at eachother's throats all the time, we need to work together, or else the owners will become more rare than a £50 note.
Friday, 20 July 2012
The Produce Stakes Final + Supporting Opens
Well, we're at the final stage. It doesn't seem like a day ago we were starting the competition, and now we're already at the end. I think the competition has been quality this year, and although the final isn't perhaps what people thought it would be, I think it's a real head scratcher of a race. There are also 4 other supporting opens that I'll be taking a look at.
19:57 - The SwindonGreyhounds.com Puppy Standard
My Pick: Forest Ronaldo
I'm going to be honest, this is a pretty weak race. For this reason, Forest Ronaldo to me is a stand out winner here. His most recent runs have been awesome, especially the 29.40 at Coventry, which would eclipse most dogs round there at the moment. He's got the red box, and with Paul Foster's other runner a slow starter in two, he'll get a dream run up the rail and win comfortably.
For the places, I'm looking at Hey Diego. Kevin Hutton's dog ran well in the first heat of the Produce Stakes, and really is the only runner with any form of consistent early pace. Also, the 28.98 time would be enough to beat the other runners in this race.
As for the other runners, Sharp Exit has a pretty good trial time for such a youngster, however she hasn't really shown much in racing. I would think she'd be better off going back to graded just to learn her craft. Izzy Handsome in three is a Poole raider, with a pretty swift 26.89 on his card. However, the time hasn't really stood up as he's been beaten in his last two A2's. Canigetawordin looks very much outclassed and out-drawn here, and should be a double figure price. Dead Nick has run really well here in inter-tracks, however this is a different class.
My Pick: 1-5-6 NAP
20:13 - The Stadiauk.com 509er
My Pick: Westmead Adonis
Quite a hard race this one really, but the class of Westmead Adonis should be much greater than the other runners in this. Perfectly drawn in trap one, Nick Savva's charge should win this comfortably, however don't expect much of a price!
Half the difficulty with this race is trying to fathom who's going to get a run as the wide runner. My pick goes with Crusty Crab. Ray Jones' dog is the track record holder and still has good form over this trip. He'll be wanting to avoid the early toe of Forest Bonjo.
To be fair, you can make a case of any of the rest of the field for the places, but to me there's no denying the winner!
My Pick: 1-5-6 NB
20:45 - The Book Six Packs at Stadiauk.com Standard
My Pick: Barnish Booth
Pretty easy race to fathom this one. To me, the rails seeds are literally all over the shot, as no one has their boxes. You'd be wanting to see Midnight in 1, Atlas in 2, Ells in 3 and Hernandez in 4. Instead, they're all over the place, and to be honest I can envisage some trouble on the inside. Hence I'm siding with Barnish Booth. I watched him at Oxford, and he ran a stormer to get 2nd from what seemed a horrible position. He showed good track craft to cut inside at the bend, then move out (I like a dog to have a good racing head). He seems very well drawn here aswell, as the 4 will move in, giving him all the room to get to the bend.
For the place, I'm going to go for a fairly big price runner in Bright Ells. Derrick Davy's runner has put in some very decent runs, and is progressing nicely into a good minor open class bitch. If she can hold her rails position somewhat, she could find herself lying in a decent position, and as she can run on strongly, could be there or thereabouts.
As for the other runners, Hernandez is a dog that, in all honesty, you can't ever back with confidence. If he wants to, he can romp up against this field, however he's not really putting in the runs as of late. Distant Midnight is a Poole raider who posted 26.87 last time out. Again, the trap draw is a bit of a nightmare. Westmead Atlas isn't exactly the best runner in this field, and will be a fairly big price, along with his poor trap draw. Fatboyz Pacquiao is always going to do well here being the sole wide runner, however its a question of whether he's up for the run.
My Pick: 5-1-2
21:17 - The Book The Paddock Bar Stayers
My Pick: Twisted Soul
Cracking race this one, a real belter. I've sided with Twisted Soul in this one. Soul, who has had a few looks round Swindon before, has been storming around Coventry, posting a fab 41.82. She has that kick of early to get to a decent position, but runs on like a steam train. In this race, the fact she's such a strong stayer will be key, as there will be alot of early pace to contend with.
The obviously early in the race will come from Wise Totty. Totty, a recent winner at Poole over their marathon trip, excels over these extended trips, and has some decent runs under her belt. A track record holder at Poole, Totty, I think, will dictate the early pace in this race, it's just a question of whether she can hold off the charges of the other strong runners.
If the early doesn't come from Totty, then no doubt it could come from Fabulous Time or Five Alley Pub. For Time, this is her first time over this trip, and she looks like she could stay quite well. It's a different ball game to 4 bends, however, and she'll need to be in a decent position early, as I can't envisage her coming from behind against the likes of Twisted Soul.
Five Alley Pub has been running very well round Oxford, coming from an impossible position last time and running on well. I reckon this boy could get a short 8 bends with the way he stays so well. If he manages to lead up or get somewhere near, he could be difficult to peg back.
Fabulous Shanty is also worth a mention. She got to the final of the Coral Regency (however was withdrawn lame), and has been running on well in the heats at Swindon. I don't really think she wants trap 1, and she could be had for early pace by the 2 and the 3.
My Pick: 5-3-2
21:49 - The 66th Two Year Old British Bred Produce Stakes Final
My Pick - Peacemaker
What a tough final to fathom! There's a fair few factors to take in here, however I've sided with John Millard's Peacemaker. This son of Daves Mentor won well in both the opening heat and the semi final, seemingly getting on the bunny and staying there. The way I've read the race is that the 3 dog will move over to the rails early, which could spell problems for the 1 and 2. I feel, after watching his runs, that Peacemaker could stay fairly middle from 4, and thus could get to the bend in a handy position. From here, producing 28.60 runs as he does, he should be able to assert and win.
Saying that, I feel the race to the first bend will be won by Chilli Hot Sauce. The local runner will no doubt be a double digit price in this race, however her early pace is phenomenal, and you never know, if there was a fair bit of trouble and she scoots clear, she could go close. One fear is that she does cut the first bend quite badly, which, if matched for early with Wilson, could cause her to get into bother.
Wilson is another big runner in this race. The youngest of the field, Wilson has some cracking early pace, however his times haven't been the best in his most recent races. Off the first bend, I feel it'll be a race on between 4 and 5.
If you're looking for a running on sort, then look no further than Bubbly Swallow. Nick Savva's bitch ran on strong against Blackband Scamp on Wednesday, and, so long as she can get a clear run from the 2 and the 3 who will want the rails, she can be there or there abouts.
It's a cracking final, and well done to all the finalists for getting there.
My Pick: 4-5-1
19:57 - The SwindonGreyhounds.com Puppy Standard
My Pick: Forest Ronaldo
I'm going to be honest, this is a pretty weak race. For this reason, Forest Ronaldo to me is a stand out winner here. His most recent runs have been awesome, especially the 29.40 at Coventry, which would eclipse most dogs round there at the moment. He's got the red box, and with Paul Foster's other runner a slow starter in two, he'll get a dream run up the rail and win comfortably.
For the places, I'm looking at Hey Diego. Kevin Hutton's dog ran well in the first heat of the Produce Stakes, and really is the only runner with any form of consistent early pace. Also, the 28.98 time would be enough to beat the other runners in this race.
As for the other runners, Sharp Exit has a pretty good trial time for such a youngster, however she hasn't really shown much in racing. I would think she'd be better off going back to graded just to learn her craft. Izzy Handsome in three is a Poole raider, with a pretty swift 26.89 on his card. However, the time hasn't really stood up as he's been beaten in his last two A2's. Canigetawordin looks very much outclassed and out-drawn here, and should be a double figure price. Dead Nick has run really well here in inter-tracks, however this is a different class.
My Pick: 1-5-6 NAP
20:13 - The Stadiauk.com 509er
My Pick: Westmead Adonis
Quite a hard race this one really, but the class of Westmead Adonis should be much greater than the other runners in this. Perfectly drawn in trap one, Nick Savva's charge should win this comfortably, however don't expect much of a price!
Half the difficulty with this race is trying to fathom who's going to get a run as the wide runner. My pick goes with Crusty Crab. Ray Jones' dog is the track record holder and still has good form over this trip. He'll be wanting to avoid the early toe of Forest Bonjo.
To be fair, you can make a case of any of the rest of the field for the places, but to me there's no denying the winner!
My Pick: 1-5-6 NB
20:45 - The Book Six Packs at Stadiauk.com Standard
My Pick: Barnish Booth
Pretty easy race to fathom this one. To me, the rails seeds are literally all over the shot, as no one has their boxes. You'd be wanting to see Midnight in 1, Atlas in 2, Ells in 3 and Hernandez in 4. Instead, they're all over the place, and to be honest I can envisage some trouble on the inside. Hence I'm siding with Barnish Booth. I watched him at Oxford, and he ran a stormer to get 2nd from what seemed a horrible position. He showed good track craft to cut inside at the bend, then move out (I like a dog to have a good racing head). He seems very well drawn here aswell, as the 4 will move in, giving him all the room to get to the bend.
For the place, I'm going to go for a fairly big price runner in Bright Ells. Derrick Davy's runner has put in some very decent runs, and is progressing nicely into a good minor open class bitch. If she can hold her rails position somewhat, she could find herself lying in a decent position, and as she can run on strongly, could be there or thereabouts.
As for the other runners, Hernandez is a dog that, in all honesty, you can't ever back with confidence. If he wants to, he can romp up against this field, however he's not really putting in the runs as of late. Distant Midnight is a Poole raider who posted 26.87 last time out. Again, the trap draw is a bit of a nightmare. Westmead Atlas isn't exactly the best runner in this field, and will be a fairly big price, along with his poor trap draw. Fatboyz Pacquiao is always going to do well here being the sole wide runner, however its a question of whether he's up for the run.
My Pick: 5-1-2
21:17 - The Book The Paddock Bar Stayers
My Pick: Twisted Soul
Cracking race this one, a real belter. I've sided with Twisted Soul in this one. Soul, who has had a few looks round Swindon before, has been storming around Coventry, posting a fab 41.82. She has that kick of early to get to a decent position, but runs on like a steam train. In this race, the fact she's such a strong stayer will be key, as there will be alot of early pace to contend with.
The obviously early in the race will come from Wise Totty. Totty, a recent winner at Poole over their marathon trip, excels over these extended trips, and has some decent runs under her belt. A track record holder at Poole, Totty, I think, will dictate the early pace in this race, it's just a question of whether she can hold off the charges of the other strong runners.
If the early doesn't come from Totty, then no doubt it could come from Fabulous Time or Five Alley Pub. For Time, this is her first time over this trip, and she looks like she could stay quite well. It's a different ball game to 4 bends, however, and she'll need to be in a decent position early, as I can't envisage her coming from behind against the likes of Twisted Soul.
Five Alley Pub has been running very well round Oxford, coming from an impossible position last time and running on well. I reckon this boy could get a short 8 bends with the way he stays so well. If he manages to lead up or get somewhere near, he could be difficult to peg back.
Fabulous Shanty is also worth a mention. She got to the final of the Coral Regency (however was withdrawn lame), and has been running on well in the heats at Swindon. I don't really think she wants trap 1, and she could be had for early pace by the 2 and the 3.
My Pick: 5-3-2
21:49 - The 66th Two Year Old British Bred Produce Stakes Final
My Pick - Peacemaker
What a tough final to fathom! There's a fair few factors to take in here, however I've sided with John Millard's Peacemaker. This son of Daves Mentor won well in both the opening heat and the semi final, seemingly getting on the bunny and staying there. The way I've read the race is that the 3 dog will move over to the rails early, which could spell problems for the 1 and 2. I feel, after watching his runs, that Peacemaker could stay fairly middle from 4, and thus could get to the bend in a handy position. From here, producing 28.60 runs as he does, he should be able to assert and win.
Saying that, I feel the race to the first bend will be won by Chilli Hot Sauce. The local runner will no doubt be a double digit price in this race, however her early pace is phenomenal, and you never know, if there was a fair bit of trouble and she scoots clear, she could go close. One fear is that she does cut the first bend quite badly, which, if matched for early with Wilson, could cause her to get into bother.
Wilson is another big runner in this race. The youngest of the field, Wilson has some cracking early pace, however his times haven't been the best in his most recent races. Off the first bend, I feel it'll be a race on between 4 and 5.
If you're looking for a running on sort, then look no further than Bubbly Swallow. Nick Savva's bitch ran on strong against Blackband Scamp on Wednesday, and, so long as she can get a clear run from the 2 and the 3 who will want the rails, she can be there or there abouts.
It's a cracking final, and well done to all the finalists for getting there.
My Pick: 4-5-1
Tuesday, 17 July 2012
The Produce Stakes - Semi Finals
The final stages of this competition have come round extremely quickly, as we're now down to the final 18 greyhounds.
The highlight of the second round for me was the performance of Brizzle Blue. The way he kicked away off the 3rd bend to win by 6 lengths or so in 28.28 was mindblowing, and a real uplift to have a local dog do so well. I've followed Blue since his first trials at Swindon, and I liked the look of him then. He's matured into a really good dog, so here's hoping he can make the final!
Of course there are two other Swindon greyhounds in the semi finals aswell, with Kevin Hutton fielding Chilli Hot Sauce and Gemstone Jack. Admittedly Jack hasn't been treated very well at all by the draw, as he's in the hardest heat of the lot. Chilli, on the other hand, I think has a squeak in her race.
Here's my preview then of the Semi Finals. Remember, it's the first two through.
20:07: Semi Final 1
My Pick - Wilson
Romeo Gallant - 8/1
Benkaat Blue - 5/2
Westmead Atlas - 7/2
Watch Matt - 14/1
Wilson - 7/4
Chilli Hot Sauce - 10/1
Betting Percentage - 114%
Most definitely the easier of the three heats this one, however it does have its positives and negatives. Wilson, who was really impressive in the opening round, has a much easier task of it in this race compared to the second round, and he should beat these rivals comfortably. Watch Matt in 4 means he should get a clear passage to the bend, and his class should prevail from there.
For the places its going to very much depend on the run to the bend. The way the trap draw has worked out means that Watch Matt, a railer who seems to move off slightly and cut in, could cause some traffic problems for those runners on the inside. Due to this, you have to say that Chilli Hot Sauce could be a big runner on the wide outside. Kevin Hutton's bitch has shown some excellent early speed, and if she can kick on with Wilson and there's some trouble on the inside, then she could qualify here.
I will, however, be siding with Benkaat Blue for the other qualifying place. Although he hasn't really set the track alight, Mark Wallis' Puppy Derby finalist has the class on paper, and if he can reproduce near his best then he can get to the £15,000 final.
My Pick: 5-2-3
20:22: Semi Final 2
My Pick: Teena Marina
Blackband Scamp - 16/1
Bubbly Swallow - 4/1
Romeo You Decide - 1/1
Teena Marina - 5/2
Lowdown - 10/1
Hedsor Arthur - 8/1
Betting Percentage - 124.7%
Competitive race this one, with the race really being between traps 3 and 4. Dave Firmager's Romeo You Decide ran really well to beat Bubbly Swallow last time out, posting a good time aswell. However, the fear for me is that the quick run might catch him out (as it could any runner to be honest), and on the run in, I feel he could be picked up by Teena Marina. I've been really impressed with this bitch, and Andy's Clarke's runner is the one I'd be siding with to win this. 5/2 in the second round was a really good price, and with the runners in this race she should be more of the same.
Bubbly Swallow is obviously a player in any race. Nick Savva's bitch is more prolific over 6 bends, however she has shown to be game over 4 bends. You can expect her to be running on very strong, especially to possibly catch out the ping-gone antics of Romeo You Decide.
My Pick: 4-3-2
20:37: Semi Final 3
My Pick: Brizzle Blue
Peacemaker - 5/1
Johnny Kwango - 6/1
Romeo Recruit - 6/1
Westmead Adonis - 1/1
Gemstone Jack - 33/1
Brizzle Blue - 5/2
Betting Percentage - 126.8%
Now this race was really hard to price up, I don't envy any compiler or bookie in this race, as I just couldn't really get my head around it. It's a cracking race, worthy of being the final in fact. The unfortunate thing is that only two of these go through.
I'm obviously siding with our good local shot Brizzle Blue. Alan McDowell's dog has the perfect trap draw in trap 6, and has that kick of early to live with the likes of Romeo Recruit. The true test will be if there is a battle down the back straight against one of the more seasoned OR campaigners like Westmead Adonis. Obviously against Adonis, it would be tough to match him stride for stride. However, the way the inside trap draw is made up, I can see there being some trouble for the railers in this race.
Unfortunately, I think Gemstone Jack is a bit outclassed in this race, which is a shame really, as in any of the other heats he would've had a cracking chance.
For the other places, obviously Westmead Adonis is going to be a big player in this race. However, the way the trap draw has come out has made things difficult. In my opinion, even though he's drawn as a railer, Peacemaker wants to be moreso in trap 3 rather than on the rails, so he could turn right out of the boxes. Johnny Kwango, for me, ran either very green or didn't really want to go by last week, however he's proven he has the speed when he's on the bunny.
My Pick: 6-4-2
Good luck to all those with semi finalists, and fingers crossed all the greyhounds come home safe and sound. Keep an eye out on the twitter feed, @SwindonRacing, for the trap draw for the final, which I should think will be done on the night,
Happy Punting!
Chris Watts,
The highlight of the second round for me was the performance of Brizzle Blue. The way he kicked away off the 3rd bend to win by 6 lengths or so in 28.28 was mindblowing, and a real uplift to have a local dog do so well. I've followed Blue since his first trials at Swindon, and I liked the look of him then. He's matured into a really good dog, so here's hoping he can make the final!
Of course there are two other Swindon greyhounds in the semi finals aswell, with Kevin Hutton fielding Chilli Hot Sauce and Gemstone Jack. Admittedly Jack hasn't been treated very well at all by the draw, as he's in the hardest heat of the lot. Chilli, on the other hand, I think has a squeak in her race.
Here's my preview then of the Semi Finals. Remember, it's the first two through.
20:07: Semi Final 1
My Pick - Wilson
Romeo Gallant - 8/1
Benkaat Blue - 5/2
Westmead Atlas - 7/2
Watch Matt - 14/1
Wilson - 7/4
Chilli Hot Sauce - 10/1
Betting Percentage - 114%
Most definitely the easier of the three heats this one, however it does have its positives and negatives. Wilson, who was really impressive in the opening round, has a much easier task of it in this race compared to the second round, and he should beat these rivals comfortably. Watch Matt in 4 means he should get a clear passage to the bend, and his class should prevail from there.
For the places its going to very much depend on the run to the bend. The way the trap draw has worked out means that Watch Matt, a railer who seems to move off slightly and cut in, could cause some traffic problems for those runners on the inside. Due to this, you have to say that Chilli Hot Sauce could be a big runner on the wide outside. Kevin Hutton's bitch has shown some excellent early speed, and if she can kick on with Wilson and there's some trouble on the inside, then she could qualify here.
I will, however, be siding with Benkaat Blue for the other qualifying place. Although he hasn't really set the track alight, Mark Wallis' Puppy Derby finalist has the class on paper, and if he can reproduce near his best then he can get to the £15,000 final.
My Pick: 5-2-3
20:22: Semi Final 2
My Pick: Teena Marina
Blackband Scamp - 16/1
Bubbly Swallow - 4/1
Romeo You Decide - 1/1
Teena Marina - 5/2
Lowdown - 10/1
Hedsor Arthur - 8/1
Betting Percentage - 124.7%
Competitive race this one, with the race really being between traps 3 and 4. Dave Firmager's Romeo You Decide ran really well to beat Bubbly Swallow last time out, posting a good time aswell. However, the fear for me is that the quick run might catch him out (as it could any runner to be honest), and on the run in, I feel he could be picked up by Teena Marina. I've been really impressed with this bitch, and Andy's Clarke's runner is the one I'd be siding with to win this. 5/2 in the second round was a really good price, and with the runners in this race she should be more of the same.
Bubbly Swallow is obviously a player in any race. Nick Savva's bitch is more prolific over 6 bends, however she has shown to be game over 4 bends. You can expect her to be running on very strong, especially to possibly catch out the ping-gone antics of Romeo You Decide.
My Pick: 4-3-2
20:37: Semi Final 3
My Pick: Brizzle Blue
Peacemaker - 5/1
Johnny Kwango - 6/1
Romeo Recruit - 6/1
Westmead Adonis - 1/1
Gemstone Jack - 33/1
Brizzle Blue - 5/2
Betting Percentage - 126.8%
Now this race was really hard to price up, I don't envy any compiler or bookie in this race, as I just couldn't really get my head around it. It's a cracking race, worthy of being the final in fact. The unfortunate thing is that only two of these go through.
I'm obviously siding with our good local shot Brizzle Blue. Alan McDowell's dog has the perfect trap draw in trap 6, and has that kick of early to live with the likes of Romeo Recruit. The true test will be if there is a battle down the back straight against one of the more seasoned OR campaigners like Westmead Adonis. Obviously against Adonis, it would be tough to match him stride for stride. However, the way the inside trap draw is made up, I can see there being some trouble for the railers in this race.
Unfortunately, I think Gemstone Jack is a bit outclassed in this race, which is a shame really, as in any of the other heats he would've had a cracking chance.
For the other places, obviously Westmead Adonis is going to be a big player in this race. However, the way the trap draw has come out has made things difficult. In my opinion, even though he's drawn as a railer, Peacemaker wants to be moreso in trap 3 rather than on the rails, so he could turn right out of the boxes. Johnny Kwango, for me, ran either very green or didn't really want to go by last week, however he's proven he has the speed when he's on the bunny.
My Pick: 6-4-2
Good luck to all those with semi finalists, and fingers crossed all the greyhounds come home safe and sound. Keep an eye out on the twitter feed, @SwindonRacing, for the trap draw for the final, which I should think will be done on the night,
Happy Punting!
Chris Watts,
Thursday, 12 July 2012
The Produce Stakes - 2nd Round
So, we're down to 36 in the 66th running of the British Bred Produce Stakes, and this year's already thrown up some suprise packages.
The 1st round is always a bit of a strange one, as there are so many short price favourites. This might not be everybody's cup of tea, however if you're willing to bet big, or do several multiple bets, to be honest it should be hard to lose on that opening round. It's the next couple of rounds that'll sort the dogs from the greyhounds, as the short gaps are sure to hit the ones that need the rest.
Anywho, I'll actually preview the races this time around rather than pricing up. It seems if I was a bookie I was a tad generous on some of the races!
Heat 1: 20:30
My Pick: Wilson
Very difficult race to fathom this one, as there are a couple of stand outs, however I've sided with Wilson. This son of Ballymac Maeve showed some superb early pace to lead up comfortably last time, and romped up by over 12 lengths to win in 28.64. I tweeted on the night (@SwindonRacing) that this was performance of the night, and I still stand by that. The only thing in this race is that the opposition is classier, so it might not get everything his way. However, as I see it, he's getting to the bend in front and I think he'll be hard to catch.
For the places, obviously you'd be looking at both Dave Firmager's Romeo You Decide and Nick Savva's Bubbly Swallow. With the way the weather is at the moment (a massive factor to look at is bias, and what is staying on etc), I'd be siding with Swallow to pick up the 2nd, just due to the face that she runs on so strongly, and on slow going, I'd be siding with running on dog.
My Pick: 5-2-3
Heat 2: 20:45
My Pick: Westmead Adonis
I know its not exactly original, but how can you not fancy Adonis in this race. Arguably, this race is actually easier than the first round, so expect the same sort of price again. Nick Savva's dog is the sure favourite to win the competition and rightfully so.
For the places, Benkaat Blue could give Adonis a run for early pace. Mark Wallis' greyhound is a Puppy Derby finalist at Monmore, so has that big race experience. He went well in his first race, admittedly not posting the best time, but has room for improvement. Adonis is sure to catch him out in the staying department, however.
My Pick: 2-4-3
Heat 3: 21:00
My Pick: Johnny Kwango
Again I think this is a case of the 2nd round being easier than the first round. Kwango opened his account nicely by posting the fastest time of the heats, and he can make it 2 from 2 here. Andy Clarke's dog could be the one to watch in this competition.
For the places, I'm looking at Smack A Rooner. Alan McDowell's bitch ran well against Tina Marina, and showed good pace into the bend. More of the same could see her qualify well. Romeo Gallant is one to watch aswell, as he's bound to improve from the first race round Swindon.
My Pick: 2-6-4
Heat 4: 21:15
My Pick: Brizzle Blue
One of my favourites is proving to be the local hopeful in this competition! Blue ran really well in his heat, posting a good 28.82. In this race, he's the sole wide seed, and with the 5 being such a sharp railer, I can see him getting the cleanest run of the lot and winning this race.
Obviously, the 5 dog, Romeo Recruit was class in winning his heat, however the trap draw is a bit of a nightmare. Recruit will need to pace up well and get round that first bend to get on terms here.
My Pick: 6-5-2
Heat 5: 21:30
My Pick: Teena Marina
Teena Marina can make it a quick fire double for trainer Andy Clarke here. Marina ran a decent race in beating Bubbly Swallow by 1/2 length, but I think she needed the couple of looks round, as she's looked a tad green to the track. She can come on from that first win, and I'd expect a decent time from her.
In what is a decent race, the places are going to be a battle and a half. I think Peacemaker can do well once again in this race. John Millard's dog is two from two here at Swindon, and is pacing up really well in his races. If he traps like he did last week, then he'll be tough to beat. Fabulous Shanty is my other qualifier for Dave Firmager. Shanty ran on like a steam train last week, and will be there or there abouts.
My Pick: 5-2-4
Heat 6: 21:45
My Pick: Hedsor Arthur
Hedsor Arthur, trained by Mal Cumner, looks to have a plum draw here as the sole wide seed. A tough race to fathom out in all honesty, Arthur just seems to have that consistency round Swindon, and should win or be there abouts to the drop.
Local hope Gemstone Jack could run a big race here, having won his heat on Saturday. Kevin Hutton's dog did hit a bit of crowding at the first bend last week, and needs to get some clear runs under his belt in my opinion.
My Pick: 6-5-1
The 1st round is always a bit of a strange one, as there are so many short price favourites. This might not be everybody's cup of tea, however if you're willing to bet big, or do several multiple bets, to be honest it should be hard to lose on that opening round. It's the next couple of rounds that'll sort the dogs from the greyhounds, as the short gaps are sure to hit the ones that need the rest.
Anywho, I'll actually preview the races this time around rather than pricing up. It seems if I was a bookie I was a tad generous on some of the races!
Heat 1: 20:30
My Pick: Wilson
Very difficult race to fathom this one, as there are a couple of stand outs, however I've sided with Wilson. This son of Ballymac Maeve showed some superb early pace to lead up comfortably last time, and romped up by over 12 lengths to win in 28.64. I tweeted on the night (@SwindonRacing) that this was performance of the night, and I still stand by that. The only thing in this race is that the opposition is classier, so it might not get everything his way. However, as I see it, he's getting to the bend in front and I think he'll be hard to catch.
For the places, obviously you'd be looking at both Dave Firmager's Romeo You Decide and Nick Savva's Bubbly Swallow. With the way the weather is at the moment (a massive factor to look at is bias, and what is staying on etc), I'd be siding with Swallow to pick up the 2nd, just due to the face that she runs on so strongly, and on slow going, I'd be siding with running on dog.
My Pick: 5-2-3
Heat 2: 20:45
My Pick: Westmead Adonis
I know its not exactly original, but how can you not fancy Adonis in this race. Arguably, this race is actually easier than the first round, so expect the same sort of price again. Nick Savva's dog is the sure favourite to win the competition and rightfully so.
For the places, Benkaat Blue could give Adonis a run for early pace. Mark Wallis' greyhound is a Puppy Derby finalist at Monmore, so has that big race experience. He went well in his first race, admittedly not posting the best time, but has room for improvement. Adonis is sure to catch him out in the staying department, however.
My Pick: 2-4-3
Heat 3: 21:00
My Pick: Johnny Kwango
Again I think this is a case of the 2nd round being easier than the first round. Kwango opened his account nicely by posting the fastest time of the heats, and he can make it 2 from 2 here. Andy Clarke's dog could be the one to watch in this competition.
For the places, I'm looking at Smack A Rooner. Alan McDowell's bitch ran well against Tina Marina, and showed good pace into the bend. More of the same could see her qualify well. Romeo Gallant is one to watch aswell, as he's bound to improve from the first race round Swindon.
My Pick: 2-6-4
Heat 4: 21:15
My Pick: Brizzle Blue
One of my favourites is proving to be the local hopeful in this competition! Blue ran really well in his heat, posting a good 28.82. In this race, he's the sole wide seed, and with the 5 being such a sharp railer, I can see him getting the cleanest run of the lot and winning this race.
Obviously, the 5 dog, Romeo Recruit was class in winning his heat, however the trap draw is a bit of a nightmare. Recruit will need to pace up well and get round that first bend to get on terms here.
My Pick: 6-5-2
Heat 5: 21:30
My Pick: Teena Marina
Teena Marina can make it a quick fire double for trainer Andy Clarke here. Marina ran a decent race in beating Bubbly Swallow by 1/2 length, but I think she needed the couple of looks round, as she's looked a tad green to the track. She can come on from that first win, and I'd expect a decent time from her.
In what is a decent race, the places are going to be a battle and a half. I think Peacemaker can do well once again in this race. John Millard's dog is two from two here at Swindon, and is pacing up really well in his races. If he traps like he did last week, then he'll be tough to beat. Fabulous Shanty is my other qualifier for Dave Firmager. Shanty ran on like a steam train last week, and will be there or there abouts.
My Pick: 5-2-4
Heat 6: 21:45
My Pick: Hedsor Arthur
Hedsor Arthur, trained by Mal Cumner, looks to have a plum draw here as the sole wide seed. A tough race to fathom out in all honesty, Arthur just seems to have that consistency round Swindon, and should win or be there abouts to the drop.
Local hope Gemstone Jack could run a big race here, having won his heat on Saturday. Kevin Hutton's dog did hit a bit of crowding at the first bend last week, and needs to get some clear runs under his belt in my opinion.
My Pick: 6-5-1
Friday, 6 July 2012
The 66th 2 Year Old British Bred Produce Stakes 1st Round
Well, it's here folks, the opening round of the Produce Stakes. We have a total of 61 heading to post on Saturday, with the overall number of entries being significantly down on previous years. Here's my preview of all 12 heats, plus a rough guide to what, in my opinion, the prices should be. Remember folks, these prices are only a guide!
Heat 1:
Landslide - 8/1
Romeo You Decide - 4/1
Watch Charlie - 33/1
Westmead Adonis - 1/5
Mountjoy Eagle - 10/1
VACANT
Westmead Adonis should absolute romp up in this field, and you could expect a much shorter price than the quoted 1/5. Adonis is a derby finalist, and Nick Savva's dog has really taken to the track well.
I think Romeo You Decide will run a big race for 2nd. Dave Firmager's dog was fancied for the Gymcrack before getting knocked out, and he looked to trial really well on Tuesday, posting a calc. 28.83.
My Pick: 4-2-1
Heat 2:
Romeo Gallant - 7/1
Westmead Armour - 9/4
Caribbean Belle - 50/1
Johnny Kwango - 4/6
VACANT
Hedsor Florence - 16/1
Johnny Kwango, runner for the Kinsley - based Andy Clarke, hasn't got any racing form as yet, however has posted some very decent times, including a 25.39 at Peterborough and a 28.63 here at Swindon on Tuesday. Kwango should get the early run on his rivals, and should romp up fairly comfortably here.
His closest rival will be Westmead Armour. Nick Savva's charge is more suited to a longer trip, but has posted a 28.71 in a trial, and shouldn't be sniffed at. Betting wise, I'd rather bet Armour at a good price rather than Kwango at a much shorter price.
My Pick: 4-2-1
Heat 3:
Caribbean Moon - 25/1
Questhousesavana - 5/4
Hey Rodrigo - 25/1
Romeo Contender - 7/4
Canigetawordin - 16/1
VACANT
A toughie to pick from in this race really, the obvious choices are the 2 and the 4, but realistically it's a pretty poor race. I think the 2 can just edge it on it's Monmore times, but it wouldn't be a race I'd be betting.
My Pick: 2-4-5
Heat 4:
Uh Oh Chongo - 1/2
Watch Matt - 12/1
Fabulous Shanty - 5/2
Tseal - 8/1
Caribbean Ruby - 33/1
VACANT
Could be an interesting heat this. On paper, the 1 dog should go off as favourite, but with the way the weather is at the moment, I'd be taking a price on the 3 dog. Fabulous Shanty is a Regency finalist (was withdrawn from the final) and has some decent 695m Hove times. This race all depends on how far clear Chongo goes.
My Pick: 3-1-4
Heat 5:
Gemstone Annie - 7/2
Julies Vision - 8/1
Stitched - 7/2
Gemstone Jack - 11/4
VACANT
Chilli Hot Sauce - 5/2
Toughest betting heat on the card in my opinion. In this race I think Chilli can make the most of the inside berth being vacant, he has the early pace to shoot clear here. To me the only worry is if Gemstone Jack gets a good run and picks him up. The unfortunate side to this heat is that a Swindon dog has to be knocked out!
My Pick: 6-4-3
Heat 6:
Benkaat Blue - 1/3
Silbury Bugle - 8/1
Caribbean Star - 12/1
Hedsor Tabatha - 10/1
VACANT
Landing - 3/1
Again, a relatively easy heat this for Mark Wallis' Benkaat Blue. The Monmore Puppy Derby Finalist has been off for a while, but trialled well on Tuesday. The only question about him is whether he'll stay Swindon's 480 against some of the stronger running dogs later on in the competition.
My Pick: 1-6-3
Heat 7:
Bubbly Swallow - 9/4
Westmead Aouita - 2/1
Midfield - 25/1
Teena Marina - 6/4
Hedsor Henry - 33/1
Smack A Rooner - 16/1
Finally a 6 dog race! My thinking in this race is that the reputations of both 1 and 2 are pretty big, meaning they're going to be shorter than what they're true market value should be. Swallow is a true 6 bend dog, whereas Aouita, in all honesty, ran a very poor race last time. Because of this, I think Teena Marina has a great chance through the middle. She trialled well posting 28.80, and has form behind Farloe Tango.
My Pick: 4-1-2
Heat 8:
Silbury Campion - 7/2
Millwards Impact - 3/1
VACANT
Ring The Alarm - 10/3
Hedsor Robbie - 10/1
Brizzle Blue - 2/1
Brizzle Blue is one of my favourite dogs at the track, and has been trialling really well. He's been showing a kick of early, and he stays the 480 very strong, so has the all round package. He's my pick to win this race at a good price, and is the local I'd be following.
My Pick: 6-2-1
Heat 9:
The Highlander - 12/1
Is It My Turn - 8/1
Grazeley June - 12/1
Wilson - 4/6
VACANT
Hedsor Amelia - 5/2
In terms of quality, it's not exactly the best race you'll ever see. I've given the thumbs up to Wilson, who has been very consistent in trials. Henlow form translates really well, and 27.91 Henlow is a pretty good time for a youngster. He should win this with ease.
My Pick: 4-2-6
Heat 10:
Watch Sophie - 33/1
Westmead Athena - 5/2
Lowdown - 4/1
VACANT
Hedsor Arthur - 1/1
Livingona Prayer - 100/1
A bit of a headscratcher this one, but I think Hedsor Arthur gets the pick. He's a strong running sort, but he's seen the track plenty of times, and will see the 480 trip out well. I've been a touch disappointed with Westmead Athena in trials, as I think, as an A1 bitch from Henlow, she could go faster. She may be saving her best run for this race!!
My Pick: 5-2-3
Heat 11:
Westmead Atlas - 2/1
Julies Protector - 33/1
Pristine Goddess - 12/1
Caribbean Rose - 66/1
Peacemaker - 4/7
VACANT
My winning NB from last Saturday, Peacemaker, should be able to pace up and get round in front in this race. He's a big strong runner of a dog, who's already got a 28.79 on his card. His only rival is Westmead Atlas, who has some decent Henlow times, but didn't really make much of an impression in the open last Saturday.
My Pick: 5-1-3
Heat 12:
Romeo Recruit - 2/5
Blackband Scamp - 11/4
Julies Miracle - 8/1
VACANT TRAP
McGahon Mischief - 50/1
Hey Diego - 20/1
The easy winner in this for me is Dave Firmager's Romeo Recruit. He's had a quick look in a sprint, but he has a good record over 480, posting consistant sub 29's at Wimbledon, which will win this race easy.
My Pick: 1-2-6
There's my picks for the Produce then guys, fingers crossed it's a good competition and all the dogs come home safe.
Happy Punting!!
Chris Watts,
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