Brinkleys Poet – fastest first round heat winner in the Betfred Gymcrack has been sold to businessman Nic Jeal for a significant five figure sum – and according to joint racing manager Andy Mascarenhas, the new owner has a strong chance of recouping £8,000 of the purchase price in two Sundays time.

Andy said: “He was very impressive and looks the most likely winner but the times of a couple of the other heat winners are not so far away. I was very impressed with Itsumate who ran on strongly from off the pace. Droopys Radiance also stood out. Of the dogs who hadn’t trialled here, Kanturk Repeat went very well, as did Garnaman who was also probably in need of the run.

“In terms of the draw for the semi finals, Poet won’t have it all his own way. Lotties Rocket, who had a similar sectional, is on his inside and he goes in a straight line to the bend. The second and third semis look very competitive. I am not convinced that Geelo Blissful has a perfect draw. Although she is definitely a railer, shes does move to the middle out of the boxes and might have been better drawn in two.