Thankfully greyhound racing continues to proceed in all states in these Covid times, which is not only fantastic for greyhound participants but also for the punting public overall. Times like this can be extremely stressful for many individuals, so if the viewing of greyhound racing can provide some enjoyment and entertainment to people, that can only be a positive.
The highlight of racing tonight, for us anyway, is the final of the Masters Series at Albion Park, an event restricted to greyhounds that are 42 months or older at the time of nomination. Four heats were conducted last Thursday, with the Greg Stella trained Security Code clearly recording the fastest time in his first run for in excess of five months. He has drawn well in the final in box 2, as he does love the rails, and we expect him to take home the $18,000, excellent money for this grade of dog.
At Hobart, the final of the Shane Yates Memorial TasBred Cup Final is the main highlight, a race named in honour of long time race caller and race lover, Shane Yates. For excess of forty years, Shane was the voice of racing in Tasmania prior to losing his battle with cancer in May 2020, so a victory in this event will be highly sought after by the local trainers. It seems David Crosswell holds the key with three finalists, including the favourite Quick Joey Small from the coveted red alley.
Albion Park Race 1 No 7 Easy Does It $1.85 at PlayUp – Strong winner here three starts back from a wide draw. At the last start, he wanted to use plenty of the track early from his inside draw, when second in fast time at this track and distance. Looks well drawn here and has the speed to settle in, or very near, the lead. Yes.
Sandown Race 3 No 1 Weblec Flare $1.45 at PlayUp – Drawn to perfection. Desperate for the rails. Strong and fast win last start here from box 2, and this field appears to have less depth than on that occasion. Looks like the best bet of the night, and your banker for all multi bets.
Dapto Race 4 No 1 Impress Patch $1.95 at PlayUp – Nice winner here last start in good time from box two. A winner of four from just ten starts, he does appear to have the above-average ability. In a strong kennel. Well-drawn again and we are expecting him to lead throughout and record another victory.
Albion Park Race 9 No 3 Champagne Jazzy $2.35 at PlayUp – Member of an outstanding young litter from the Burman kennels, Jazzy was excellent last week in her strong win in good times. Gives the impression she is improving with each run. A nice draw tonight in an event that is not overly strong.
Dapto Race 8 No 3 Drink Long Necks $2.35 at PlayUp – Kennel mate to Impress Patch, and was runner up to that greyhound at this track and distance, two starts back. Since then he has recorded a nice win at Richmond over the 400-metre trip. Looks very well suited here as we expect him to be able to find the early lead and that should be game, set and match.
