Huge night of greyhound racing tonight across the country, with Dubbo hosting the inaugural semi-finals of the Country Classic (605m) for middle distance greyhounds, whilst over in the west at Cannington, heats of the Perth Cup (520m) and the Galaxy (715m), both Group 1 events, will be run. And let us not forget the strong programs at both Wentworth Park and The Meadows, so many opportunities for punters to find a winner. The greyhounds that have qualified for the semi-finals of the Country Classic, did so by competing in heats at eight regional venues across New South Wales. Grafton, Nowra, Temora, Dapto, Nowra, Gosford, The Gardens and Dubbo all hosted a heat, with the first four progressing to tonight’s semi-finals which will see the first two greyhounds qualify for next week’s rich final, which will see the winner taking home $125,000.
The number of interstate visitors to the Perth carnival is down this year due to Covid, but the fields assembled for the heat’s tonight are still very worthy of the Group 1 status the events hold. The local greyhounds are extremely well represented in both events, especially the Galaxy where the Steven Withers trained Mambo Monelli looks to have a mortgage on the event following his near record-breaking distance debut, at the track and distance, two weeks ago. Recent Australian Cup winner, Lala Kiwi, will be the stumbling block for the locals in their endeavours to win their Perth Cup, but the lightly raced West On Finn could be the surprise packed of the series, he does show huge potential and he begins very well. Monday will also see a huge night of racing, with heats to be conducted of three country cups, Shepparton(450m), Murray Bridge (455m) and Maitland (450), and we will have a preview and selections for our followers posted on the day.
Now let us see if we can keep our recent strong form going by finding some more winners for the punters.
Dubbo Race 7 No 3 Jarick Bale $2.05 at PlayUp
Outstanding here last week when a close second to Billy Creek in near track record time. Drawn better tonight, and with the benefit of the run in the track, he does look the winner in this strong semi-final.
Dubbo Race 8 No 5 Zipping Alabama $6.00 at PlayUp
Strong winner of her heat at Gosford, defeating Zipping Kyrgios comfortably. Strong railer, who should be ideally suited by this track.
Dubbo Race 9 No 1 Street Cry $8.00 at PlayUp
Very strong dog who rails well so this track should suit. Does get back in his races but will be finding the line hard. Each way odds.
Dubbo Race 10 No 9 Super Estrella $2.35 at PlayUp
Initially only a reserve having been the unlucky greyhound to be balloted out following the cancellation of the Dapto heat which resulted in a ballot for the semi-final places. With two scratching’s, she now gains a start from an inside draw, and despite resuming from a spell, she should lead and win.
The Meadows Race 5 No 1 Gracie Bale $2.40 at PlayUp
Very consistent performer over all distances. Drops back to the 520-metre trip here after recent 600 metre run, but we see that as no problem. Very well drawn and she has a strong record from the draw. Looks the bet of the night for us, so make her your anchor in all your multi bets tonight.
The Meadows Race 6 No 4 Collinda Patty $2.00 at PlayUp
Massive talent who was desperately unlucky at her last few runs. Only needs an ounce of luck to win. Sandown Park track record holder and capable of anything in her night. Yes.
Cannington Race 8 No 4 West On Finn $5.00 at PlayUp
Talented youngster taking on this open class series at just his eighth race start, but he does show enormous promise. Reliable begins who excels around this circuit, so if he can find the front, watch out. Very nice each way odds.
