|
The biggest talking point among greyhound fans is whether or not the people�s champion, Westmead Hawk will return to defend the title he has held for the last 2 years. One of the most exiting dogs ever seen, The Hawk has been on the comeback trail after breaking a hock during a trail at Hall Green last October. Legendary trainer Nick Savva feared the worst after the injury, but amazingly has nursed Westmead Hawk back to health and has him racing again.
He delighted his legion of fans on the 19th of May when showing a trademark big finish when winning a Derby Trial, in what was only his 3rd run back since his injury. Some say he's not the force of old, and I would have to agree that even if he makes it to the Derby, a near impossible task awaits.
The current Favourite for the Derby is Fear Haribo, trained by the greatest ever, Charlie Lister, who has won the Derby 4 times. Fear Haribo is one best prospects around, having won 12 of his 16 races, including winning the Scottish Derby Final last time out. The key to this dog is his ability to 'ping' the lids and secure a race winning lead as the near the first bend. However, a word of caution as if he misses his break, as he has done on occasions, it will be game over against the kind of opposition he will be facing. As low as 5/1 for the Derby, he is simply way too short to be backing and I would suggest finding some bigger priced dogs to back.
One Greyhound that is available to back at a huge 100/1 is Fear Robben, trained by up and coming trainer, Mark Wallis. Why do I fancy this one? Well, I have several reasons as to why this fella can give you a big run for your money. He is blessed with a mixture of speed and stamina, has a fine record in multi round competitions such as this and he recently clocked the fastest time of the night when winning a Derby Trial by 4 lengths. Also, the trainer seems to have remedied his problem of poor trapping. At the price, he must be backed each way. You have been warned!!!
Several others to consider in this canine lottery are Westmead Joe, a full brother to Westmead Hawk, who is top class and has been layed out for this event. Savana Highlands has been impressing many good judges of late and recently beat the Derby favourite, Fear Haribo by 2 lengths in a trial at Monmore Green. Of the Irish contingent, Jaxerback is one that would be worth a small each way investment due to the fact he been mixing it with, and beating, some of the best dogs over the sea.
The thing about the Derby is, if you talked to 20 different people, they would all tip you a different dog, so rather than taking a short price about a dog doing everything right over 6 races, why not have several small each way bets about some bigger priced contenders. Whatever you do, you can be sure that this years Derby will be one of the most entertaining ever.
|
|