Northern strength
“There is more strength in depth than before” suggested Newcastle GM Ian Walton as he looked forward to next week’s Time Greyhound Feed Northern Flat and ARC Angel of the North events.
Both competitions get underway next Thursday and the last trialstakes took place last night.
Jonny Whiskers was marginally the quickest winner on the night with a 28.37 run and last year’s Sunderland Classic winner is certain to attract plenty of support.
Ian said: “For a period of time, Jimmy (Wright) and Angela (Harrison), along with Jimmy Fenwick seemed to dominate the big races here. But quite a few of the kennels have grown stronger, starting with Tom Heilbron.
“Jonny Whiskers is now with Savva Roberts, along with all of Glenn Foot’s runners, and they have probably never been stronger. Then there is George and Brian Fairbairn who had a treble last night with Slingshot Sam looking really impressive. They have a long journey from Scotland but have a very decent kennel.
“Henry Young is another who goes under the radar. He only has a small kennel but they all seem pretty good, particularly Tromora Supreme.”
So, who wins each competition?
Ian said: “At this stage we don’t know who is entering. I do like Jonny Whiskers and Kevin Hutton trialled four last night including Romeo Crossfire who I think must have a decent chance having run so well in the British Bred Maiden Derby.
“Kevin also has Antigua Eagle who ran so well here under his old name, Omuircheartaigh. I don’t know whether Diane (Henry) intends to enter Clona Curly but he would have to have a big chance based on his Puppy Derby form here.
“I’m not too sure about the Angel Of The North. Tromora Supreme has great early and would have to come into it, albeit she seems a bit draw dependent. If you were looking for one to give you a run and never runs a bad race, I can’t think of anything better than Wraysbury Katie.”
On trial
With the Derby over, the major events are coming thick and fast.
Pall Mall hopeful King Capaldi clocked a ‘fastest of session’ 16.41 (-10) for the Central Park 277m sprint earlier today (FOY 16.22).
On Thursday night at Hove, Dazl Rolex clocked a disapppointing 42.44 in his apparent prepartion for the forthcoming Coral Regency. Romeo Command went quickest over the Sussex Cup 515m trip. Hove’s pre-meeting Saturday session includes the return of Coronation Cup winner New Destiny and Eclipse winner Newinn Syd.
OPENS
Tonight: Romford
Saturday: Central Park ♦ Doncaster ♦ Hove ♦ Oxford ♦ Yarmouth (updated)
Sunday: Crayford ♦ Sheffield ♦ Towcester
Monday: Nottingham
