King Elvis has become the new 9-2 favourite for the RPGTV East Anglian Derby following the elimination of original favourite Sporting Dave.
Liz McNair’s British bred Greyhound of the Year clocked marginally the fastest time of the round with a 27.49 run, two spots quicker than Dave Pruhs’ Dog Mac Arthure. The pair meet in next Monday’s second round heat.
Racing manager Marcus Westgate reckons Elvis is the dog they all have to beat to land the competition, outgoing assistant Ben Manall is edging towards Irish entry Droopys Steel.
Westgate said: “I originally thought Sporting Dave was the worthy favourite but he missed his break and was crowded whenever he tried to get a run. The obvious ones pick themselves from the times.”
One of the features of the event was the attempt of three top sprinters to step up to four bends for the first time. Kilmore Lemon won in 27.69 (+10), Droopys Steel was beaten just over a length into third behind 27.78 winner Seaglass Phantom (the pair meet next time out). Affane Party won his heat in 27.94 (+10).
Marcus said: “Those runs didn’t tell us anything because they didn’t show their sprint ability. Although he isn’t renowned for his trapping, Kilmore Lemon is capable of a lot faster than a 5.51 sectional. Droopys Steel was unable to get a four bend trial before the competition and it showed. He went right off the track at the first and second bend and should improve a lot next time out. Affane Party walked away and didn’t lead until halfway.
“Basically, we are none the wiser.”
KILMORE LEMON (t3) leads home Bubbly Turbo (t5) in heat 3. WT 27.69 RPGTV East Anglian Derby 1st Round. Photo: © Steve Nash
