Newcastle GM Ian Walton reckons the entry for the 2022 ARC Northern Puppy Derby is “the best overall we’ve had in many years in my opinion” – writes Floyd Amphlett
The North East’s showcase juvenile event has regularly been won by outstanding hounds, none more so than the 2021 winner Jaguar Macie. This year it will be another young female who will dominate interest, the Liz McNair trained Havana Bale Out who clocked an actual time of 28.36 on going rated -20 on Thursday morning.
For those questioning the going allowance, All England Cup third Hardy Rebel beat kennelmate Droopys Hooray in 28.81 (-20) at the same session. Rebel’s last three calculated times over course and distance were between 28.63-28.69. Bale Out has 29.40, 29.21 and 29.17 open race winning form at Towcester. She was accompanied in the trip to Newcastle by Havana Lover 28.85 and Havana Robusto (both -20).
Walton said: “Bale Out looks exceptional and the one that they all have to beat after that run. Although she might be on her own at that level, there must be at least a dozen others in the 28.50-28.60 class and that makes it a very good Puppy Derby. I couldn’t help notice that there appear to be quite a lot of strong runners in the field which should make for interesting racing.
“It has been nice to see Rab and Liz (McNair), David Mullins, Pat Rosney, Graham Rankin and a number of other trainers make the trip and we have a whole pile of good local puppies too. It should be a great event.”
The ARC Northern Puppy Derby takes place on February 1st, 8th and 15th – winner’s prize £10,000. Other finalists £1,000
