7-2 chance Laughil Jess is Danny Rayment’s selection for the Ladbrokes Gold Collar which is at the semi final stage on Saturday

The Crayford RM admits his selection is “possibly heart over head” as he considers the chances of the track’s most popular local despite her unbeaten 15:15 run over the track’s 540 metres.

Danny said: The Gold Collar is my favourite competition dating back to my time at Catford which closed 20 years ago. So I have an obvious allegiance to Jess, being our local runner.

“But she will be up against it on Saturday with Aaaymza Sydney, who looks a very good dog set to get a clear run behind her.

“She is so game and keeps finding a bit more but things are really starting to heat up now.”

We will preview Danny’s thoughts on the three semi finals on Saturday.

In the meantime, connections are reminded that entries close today for the Rose Bowl (380m) and Kent Autumn Marathon (874m). The two 18-runner events have heats on Saturday.

Danny said: I would be quite confident that the Rose Bowl will fill and the entries have been coming in too for the marathon.

“Generally, they tend to fill. I’m not convinced that we will get 18, but we will stage it anyway providing we get ten entries, for two five-runner qualifiers. I’m quite hopeful.”

Entries close at Noon – 01322 522262.

ON the subject of racing office selections, we can expect some banter at Sunderland on Friday, which features the ARC Classic Final.

Not only has Racing Manager Joe Frelford kindly agreed to preview the 10 opens, but his assistant Dean Kirk has agreed to take on his guvnor in a tipping head-to-head.

We’ll have the full 10-line form with all selections in our preview on the day.

CONNECTIONS of the 18 Premier Greyhound Racing Eclipse semi finalists will be thrilled at the unveiling of the winner’s trophy.

Supplier Mark Burridge said: “I don’t very often say this, but this is a one-off and will be treasured”

Indeed!