Wwgreyhound weekly 21 february 24

Victorian

Greyhound Weekly Volume 1

Number 21

Australia’s best sprinters will converge on The Meadows for eight action-packed heats of the Group 1 Australian Cup (525m) this Saturday night.

The eight heat winners will progress to Saturday week’s final, worth a whopping $250,000 to the winner.

The Australian Cup – first run in 1958 and won by Rookie Rebel – is a race steeped in history. Its honour roll includes the likes of Brett Lee, Tangaloa, Ginger and China Trip – the only greyhound to win back-to-back titles.

Who will be crowned champ in 2017?

See our review of last week’s Group 1 Triple Treat on pages 15 and 16.

Next week we will have a full preview for the final, and a look back at the history of this fabulous race, as we prepare for the 59th running of The Australian Cup. Good luck to the connections of all the runners in this week’s heats.

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Friday February 24, 2017

From the Editor’s Desk Victorian Greyhound Weekly Edition 21 Friday February 24 Remember, you can subscribe to Victorian Greyhound Weekly absolutely FREE OF CHARGE. Simply register your email address with us and you will be sent an e-copy by email every Friday morning. editor@victoriangreyhoundweekly.com.au Coming up over the next week: Friday February 24

Healesville, Sale, Bendigo and Geelong.

Saturday February 25

Traralgon and The Meadows.

Sunday February 26

Sandown (SAP), Healesville and Sale.

Monday February 27

Ballarat, Traralgon And Shepparton.

Tuesday February 28

Geelong, Bendigo And Cranbourne

Wednesday March 1

The Meadows (MEP), Bendigo, Ballarat and Cranbourne.

Thursday March 2

Sale, Shepparton, Warrnambool and Sandown.

ADVERTISING MANAGER Graham Lunney

Phone 0488 669 886 Advertising deadline Mondays 4.30pm Email: advertising@victoriangreyhoundweekly.com.au ADVERTISING RATES 1/8 page banner at the bottom of page 1 (When available) 1/8 page banner at the bottom of other pages Quarter page Half page Full page *Discounts available for permanent bookings

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Contact Advertising Manager, Graham Lunney 0488 669 886 advertising@victoriangreyhoundweekly.com.au -2-

Reform panel's recommendations are 'another way to squeeze us out' - NSW comment.

Declan Rurenga The greyhound industry reform panel has delivered its recommendations after months of political turmoil.

The report Spring Hill greyhound recommends trainer Greg Board Spring Skipper. whole-of-life with Photo: tracking for DECLAN RURENGA greyhounds, an enforceable code for welfare as well as tougher licensing conditions.

However, Spring Hill greyhound trainer Greg Board said much of the work was “waste of money” as several of the recommendations had already been adopted by the industry in the wake of the live baiting scandal.

“My personal opinion is they are trying to make it harder and harder to have a greyhound and try and weed us out in a different way,” Mr Board said.

The reform panel, headed by former NSW Premier Morris Iemma was started when the state government backed down on its greyhound ban.

“The government is going to respond to all 122 recommendations and we are hopeful of doing that over the coming weeks,” NSW racing minister Paul Toole said.

The report recommends splitting Greyhound Racing NSW’s regulatory and commercial responsibilities into two separate government agencies.

Mr Board said the resulting extra costs for caring for greyhounds would push some trainers and owners out of the industry.

“Country racing winnings aren’t going to be feasible (winning) $180 a race,” Mr Board said.

Mr Board has recently installed air-conditioning on a trailer to carry greyhounds at a cost of $6000.

“That’s a lot of $180 race wins,” he said.

“The main thing they should be looking at is the intercode agreement.

“We give $35 million to the horses each year, with that money we could have the best animal welfare in the world.”

We welcome your thoughts on this or any other topic editor@victoriangreyhoundweekly.com.au Victorian Greyhound Weekly is edited and published by Roger J Clark, for Azpak Marketing PO Box 184, Grantville Vic, 3984.

Email: editor@victoriangreyhoundweekly.com.au Facebook: ttps://www.facebook.com/search/1781809112100364/ local_search?surface=sist

BARCIA BALE

FABREGAS Black dog October 2010 36.5kg Bombastic Shiraz x Wicked Witch

Black dog March 2010 35kg Go Wild Teddy x Princess Bale

Career Statistics: 14 starts - 13 wins Prizemoney $136,075

STUD FEE

Career Statistics: 13 starts - 12 wins Prizemoney: $131,055

$3,300 inc. GST FROZEN ONLY

STUD FEE

$3,300 inc. GST FROZEN ONLY

Winner 2012 Group 1 National Sprint Championship

Winner 2012 Group 1 Maturity Classic Track Records: Maitland 450m - 24.90 Bulli 400m - 22.20 (in his maiden)

He was a superstar on the track and he is now A superstar sire Leading AGRA Sire of the year for 2016

Superstar who won 13 of 14 starts

Fabregas……….. Built for speed!

FERNANDO BALE

KIOWA PRODUCER* Dark brindle dog 31.5kg April 2011 Dragon Fire x Kay V Sweet Kay

White & brindle dog 29.7kg March 2013 Kelsos Fusileer* x Chloe Allen

Career Statistics: 44 starts - 35 wins 5 placings Prizemoney $1,299,370

STUD FEE

$4,400 inc. GST FROZEN ONLY

Winner of 8 Group 1 events Including G1 Golden Easter Egg, G1 National Sprint Championship, G1 Maturity Classic, G1 Topgun, G1 Adelaide Cup, G1 Peter Mosman Classic, as well as the G2 Bendigo Cup, G2 Traralgon Cup and the G3 Bill Collins Memorial.

Track Records: Bendigo 425m 23.99 Traralgon 525m 29.80

STUD FEE

$1950 inc. GST Career Statistics: 94 starts - 50 wins, 19 placings FROZEN ONLY Member of the 2013 All-American team Winner of the 2013 Hollywood World Classic, 2013 Southland Derby and 2013 Chris Callas Memorial Stake.

Perfect outcross for Australian bitches Kiowa Producer is undoubtedly one of the best bred American imports to ever stand at stud in Australia.

What’s more, Kiowa Producer has the racetrack record to back up that claim, when you consider his overall record of 94 starts for 50 wins (Yes, 50 wins!)

15 seconds and four thirds.

Also Standing: Bekim Bale ($2750), Dyna Tron ($1650), Dyna Lachlan ($2200), Meticulous ($1500), Path To Power ($1500) and Velocette ($2200).

Refund (less 10% nil pups) Credit Card facilities available (2% surcharge applies) Contact Paul & Michelle Westerveld 0412 887 226 Email: meticulouslodge@bigpond.com

www.meticulouslodge.com -3-

Breeding and trainers of last week’s metropolitan winners.

Victoria, NSW and South Australia

10. Jet Hawk (Black Magic Opal x Outlandish) G. Johnston 11. Brueghelino (Banjo Boy x Easy Baby) D. Douch 12.Hosting (Zulu Zeus x Mosel) J. Cottrell

Angle Park - Monday February 13 1. Edison Bale (Magic Sprite x Ellen Bale) W. Matcott 2. Heading My Way (Lochinvar Marlow x Bogie Dawn) T. Murray 3. Trademark Boss (Bit Chili x Fredrina Bale) T. Rasmussen 4. Allen Oregon (Turanza Bale x Ucme Typhoon*) B. Rawlings 5. Odds And Ends (Cosmic Rumble x Good Odds Girl) K. Burnett 6. Golden Rat Lass (Collision x Miss Quick Rat) K. Gill 7. Bathtub Teddy (All Is Cool x Grumpy Snappa) B. Rawlings 8. Mr. Arjay (Magic Sprite x Mingle) C. Swain 9. Sutton Steele (Dyna Lachlan x Asterix) A. Modra 10. Todd Bless (Spring Gun x Dream Choice) T. Kelly 11. Mackinlay (Glen Gallon x Velocity Melita) K. Bewley Angle Park - Wednesday February 15 1. Slipper's Time (Lochinvar Marlow x Slipper's Tonic) B. Jones 2. Pure Eagle (Cape Hawke x Power Merc) L. Harris 3. Long Gully Ella (KC And All x Long Gully Libby) P. Hearnden 4. Merindah (Cosmic Rumble x Koombooyana Girl) B. Stamenkovic 5. She's A Batgirl (Oaks Road x Four Walls) K. Bewley 6. Lupe Fiasco (Nitro Burst x Pipe Dreams) Kathleen Johnston 7. McLaren Missile (Cosmic Chief x Steve McLaren) T. Foster 8. Betty's Hotpot (Magic Sprite x Annie Walker) P. Jovanovic 9. Long Gully Helen (KC And All x Long Gully Libby) P. Hearnden 10. Full Bogan (Falcon x Boganesque) Kim Johnston 11. Deecee Comics (superman x Doyen Star) B. Lowick 12. Lektra Elusive (Vee Man Vane x Lektra Angie) V. Roz

Wentworth Park - Wednesday February 15 1. Magic Cookie (Magic Sprite x Cookie's Recipe) 2. Hill Top Belle (Collision x Lochinvar Vogue) F. Goodwin 3. Celebrate (Hallucinate x Cristalle) L. Atchison 4. Exciting (Magic Sprite x Shelly Shelby) L. Atchison 5. Cosmical (Cosmic Rumble x Provoked) C. Chappelow 6. Faith To Excel (Swift Fancy x Excel Like Speed) P. Daly 7. Willie Blues (El Grand Senor x Bogie Dawn) D. Warren 8. Tap Out Axe (Magic Sprite x Indigo Gem) R. Metselaar 9. Flying Point (Oaks Road x Cavendish Flyer) G. Sattler 10. My Little Mate (Fabregas x Little Mother) S. Spackman Angle Park - Thursday February 16 1. Alice's Entity (Fabregas x Girl Aloud) T. Rasmussen 2. Windmill Haze (Barcia Bale x Contrary Mary) K. Gill 3. Dream A Little (Banjo Boy x Zardae) J. Jones 4. Funky Monkey Cape Hawke x Power Of Blue) C. Jaensch 5. Zipping Gator (Nolen x Crafty Lady) W. Sebastyan 6. Regal Looper (Where's Pedro x Little Looper) C. Butcher 7. Molly Be Nimble (Nitro Burst x Hope's Up) C. Butcher 8. Fabregal (Fabregas x Allinga Jay Jay) R. Mackellar 9. Linco Bale (Kelsos Fusileer x Chloe Allen) Kim Johnstone 10.Rock Away (Premier Fantasy* x Up And Away) L. Rasmussen 11. Cairnlea Kenny (Premier Fantasy x Cairnlea Elle) P. Jovanovic 12. Rebound Rita (Cosmic Chief x Galactic Rose) D. Denton

The Meadows (MEP) - Wednesday February 15 1. Osanna (Barcia Bale x Mepunga Nicky) A. Langton 2. Got One Back (Bekim Bale x Surfing Idol) J. Borg 3. Trixta Rox (Barcia Bale x Punk Rock Lass) D. Mowat 4. Angel Dash (Walk Hard x Dirty Angel) J. Sharp 5. Lektra Flame (Fabregas x Lektra Annie) A. Dailly 6. Faithful Hill (Dyna Tron x So Faithful) D. Geall 7. Petra Allen (Fabregas x Erica Allen) H. Collins 8. Jailor Bale (Afleet Alex* x Delfina Bale) S. Collins 9. Varuchi Pass (Walk Hard x Dirty Angel) J. Sharp

Heavy Duty Webbing Lead with safety clip Colours, Black, Light Yellow, Red, Yellow, Pink, Blue, Green: Price: $13.50 Ring Graham Moscow:

0412 243 655 www.greyhoundgear.com.au -4-

Breeding and trainers of last week’s metropolitan winners.

Victoria, NSW and South Australia continued

5. Burn One Down (Buck Fever x Fancy Jaffa) J. Thompson 6. Fanta Bale (David Bale x Ucme Typhoon*) R. Britton 7. Lightning Frank (Black Magic Opal x Kirabilli Abbie) M. Wright 8. Don't Kid Me (Lochinvar Marlow x Clinga) S. White 9. Sarah Swift (Knocka Norris x Swift Georga) P. Dapiran 10. Vee Tee Swift (Spring Gun x Key Exit) D. Mowat 11. Lala Shim (Dyna Tron x Shimaguni) A. Dailly

Sandown - Thursday February 16 1. Rig Fifty Five (Oaks Road x Full Noise Turbo) A.Langton 2. Limburg Dan (Cosmic Chief x Limburg Gem) C. Reivers 3. Wait There (Barcia Bale x Sprite Lee) B. Ennis 4. Tito Mojito (Nolen x Fancy Mojo) M. Giles 5. Cry Later (Magic Sprite x Reign Of Terror) R. Cunningham 6. Ebby Ripper (SH Avatar x Ebby Miss) M. Eberand 7. Repelo Muggletum (Barcia Bale x Finlandia) I. Cockerell 8. Mumma Josie (Barcia Bale x Charming Louise) J. Britton 9. Still The One (Magic Sprite x Live On Reality) M. Mallia-Magri 10. Chevsta (Dyna Tron x Premier Angel) J. Magri 11. Carry On Quinney (Farmor Las Vegas x Soul Calibur) R. Britton 12. Zabdon Bluey (Gardham Prince x Our Awesome Opal) V. Wisener

Congratulations to last night's three Group 1 winners.

Burn One Down

Wentworth Park - Saturday February 18 1. Queen Audrey (Spring Gun x Fascinate Maria) C. Eaton 2. Wicked Warrior (Where's Pedro x Bit Sassy) J. Magri 3. Paua To Rush (Barcia Bale x Paua To Terrify) J. Van Enkuyzen 4. Miss Foxy Lee (Magic Sprite x Cristalle) D. Swain 5. She's Grand (El Grand Senor x Maple Syrup) R. O'Brien 6. Chaser (Knocka Norris x Physical) M. Gatt 7. Full Of Rust (Barcia Bale x Idelle Bale) A.Manwarring 8. Zambora Cross (Barcia Bale x Benden Snap) J. Lord 9. Savanaka Two (Barcia Bale x Coral Corleone) J. Calaughan 10. Spring Solomon (Spring Gun x Fascinate Marina) N. Holloway

Fanta Bale

The Meadows - Saturday February 18 1. Aston Dee Bee (Barcia Bale x Aston Elle) J. Thompson 2. Landmark (Where's Pedro x Tiz Tears) R. Britton 3. Rippin Hayne (Magic Sprite x Chevy Princess) R. Britton 4. Felton Bale (Bella Infrared* x Fyna Bale) H. Collins

Lightning Frank

Sandown (SAP) Sunday February 1 1.Sheza Sling Shot (Collision x Midnight News) R. Brittom 2. Pupetta Moresca (Collision x Cawbourne Looney) M. Delbridge 3. City And Colour (Fabregas x Punch Me Out) M. Delbridge 4. Our Turbo Boy (Oaks Road x Full Noise Turbo) J. Britton 5. Lynlea Jiddy (Kinloch Brae* x Mepunga Opal) J. McDowall 6. Aston Gisle (Collision x Aston Elle) J. Greenough 7. Rig Fifty Five (Oaks Rpad x Full Noise Turbo) A.Langton 8. Tinaca De Kahn (Barcia Bale x Shelbourne Dawn) J. Cottrell 9. My Alibi (Kinloch Brae* x Where's My Dollar) I. Brown 10.Tullabung Betty (Duna Tron x Hidden Assets) A.Jackson 11. Prime Suspect x Bea Smith) J. Talgi 12. Seven Two (Cosmic Chief x Uno Diva) J. Galea)

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Talking Breeding Assassin x Salmazar).

She is from her dam’s second Bombastic Shiraz, litter, of 14 named, which included Anniversary Girl, Baltika Siyan, Benny, Black Sambucca, Classic Spud, Discriminate, National Molly, Pink Whistle, Procreate, Red Heat and Wonaeamirri.

She also produced winners from her January 2008 litter by Bombastic Shiraz, February 2011 litter by Where’s Pedro and November 2013 litter by Fabregas.

On the track, she raced just 15 times, without winning, but was placed six times, four times over 480 metres at Horsham, and also over 600 metres at The Meadows and 699 metres at Cranbourne.

She has five named offspring from her first litter, Citrus Kiss, Goldenpaw Girl, Goldenpaw Glory, Lemon VICTORIA Paw and Miss Maximo, who were whelped in May 2014

by Barcia Bale, then two named from her second litter, Brass Bullet and Goldenpaw Jet, who were whelped in May 2015 by Kinloch Brae*.

Sale breeder, Gayle Elston has the other Dyna Double One litter, which has two dogs and one bitch, From the well bred bitch, Somma Storm (May 2009 Collision x Felicity Zoe), whose dam is by Big Daddy Cool x Felicity Ashton (Malawi’s Prince x Felicity Floss).

She is from a litter of eight named, which included Apparently So, Astro, Fast Bobby, Lucy Dream, Minnie, Ranfurlie Chad and Zo La Doe. Their dam also has winners on file from her other THIS week’s review of litters from the Victorian Litter litters, by Nitro Burst, Pure Octane and Where’s Pedro.

Somma Storm raced 50 times, for five wins and 12 Registrations list for the week ending February 1, begins with a litter of emerging stud success, Banjo Boy (April placings, winning three times over 400 metres at Warragul (22.76), with single wins over 311 metres at 2011 Vee Man Vane x Off Springer).

Cranbourne (18.06) and 440 metres at Sale (25.27).

Registered by Mount Duneed breeder, Mark She has four named offspring on file from her first O’Connor, the two dogs and three bitches are from the litter, Fiery Storm, Legend Jack, Rylie’s Jack and beautifully bred bitch, Gemstar (November 2011 Mogambo x Bato’s Bullet), whose dam is by Digital* x Stormy Jack, who were whelped in March 2014 by Fabregas.

Ring Tone (Gable Laforche* x Skullring).

She is from her dam’s only litter of three named, which included Breaking Hearts and Hey Bato.

One pup for Fernando On the track, she raced 54 times, for eight wins UNFORTUNATELY just the one dog pup in the next and 13 placings, winning five times over 525 metres at litter on the list, by Fernando Bale (March 2013 Kelsos The Meadows (30.13), with single wins over 410 metres Fusileer* x Chloe Allen). at Horsham (23.78), 311 metres at Cranbourne (17.88) Registered by Allan Steele from Doncaster, the and 400 metres at Geelong (22.71). pup is from the very well bred bitch, Glitz And Glam (December 2007 Bombastic Shiraz x Strike A Pose), whose dam is by Brett Lee x Dance Portrait (Bobniak x On the Double Lovely Portrait).

NEXT we have two litters by champion sprinter and She raced 13 times for two wins and three outstanding stud prospect, Dyna Double One (March placings, winning over 452 metres at Devonport and 515 2013 Barcia Bale x Crystin Bale). metres at Launceston, with no times available.

Golden Paw Syndicate Manager, Ian Wood has She has five named offspring from her first litter, the first two litters, which has two dogs and one bitch, whelped in January 2012 by Path To Power, then a one from the well bred bitch, Golden Lagoon (November 2009 Bombastic Shiraz x Lemon Cruiser), whose dam is bitch litter, by Black Magic Opal in January 2016, so double disappointment for Allan, lets hope they’re both

by Awesome Assassin x Empty Schooner (Royal winners, half as good as their dads.

Talking Breeding with Roger Clark

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Talking Breeding Clash Of Kings, Superfonic and Your Highness.

Their dam also produced winners from her five other named offspring, from three other litters, by Just The Best, Surf Lorian and Where’s Pedro.

On the track, she raced eight times for one win, over 595 metres at Sandown (34.61) and two placings, 400 metres at Warragul and 515 metres at Sandown.

She has one previous litter on file, four dogs and three bitches, whelped in September 2015, by Mogambo. ____________________________________________ 2016 Greyhound of the Year at The Meadows

Talking Breeding Victoria Continued….

Kinloch Brae* litter

Kinloch Brae* THE last litter from this week’s Victorian list is a nice litter litter of six pups by international stud success, Kinloch Brae* (August 2005 Craigie Mo Town x Greys Free Style).

Registered by Bunyip breeder, Stephen White, the two dogs and four bitches are from the beautifully bred bitch, Elizabeth Two (July 2012 Fear Zafonic* x Queen Lauryn), whose dam is by Token Prince x Cheeky Sprite (Bright Ebony x Cheeky Villian).

She is from a litter of four named, which included

Advertise your product, stud dog, pups for sale, transport services here. advertising@victoriangreyhoundweekly.com.au

Advertise your product, stud dog, pups for sale, transport services here. advertising@victoriangreyhoundweekly.com.au

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3 Noaki Street Pearcedale 3912 Call, SMS or Email Vince 0421569259 vince@vtgroup.com.au

INTRODUCING

SMART MISSILE AT STUD SMART MISSILE

Nitro Burst

Bombastic Shiraz

Hotburst

Black Dog July 2013 36.5kgs

Premier Fantasy*

Oh Cee Ya Oh Behave

Ginger Dark Horison Malawi’s Prince Bombastic Blonde Blonde Bombshell Acacia Ablaze Hotshot Mary La Maze Denver Outburst Nicole Cruise Vintage Prince Premier County Wise Plan Murlene Slippy Nifty Niamh Pauls Turn Ginger Big Ginger Boy Dark Horizon Hotshot

Black Shiraz

Hunter Tylo

Malagro Sal

26 starts 12 wins 5 placings Stake earnings $64,107

A superstar in the making who’s career ended prematurely by injury Winner of the hand picked Speed Star Series at Sandown which he won in a blistering 29.01, after he had broken the track record at The Gardens 29.19 “Incredibly fast dog that could run unbelievably fast times and was only getting better before injury cut short his career” - Jason McKay SMART MISSILE WOULD HAVE BEEN ONE OF THE QUICKEST WE HAVE SEEN IN A LONG TIME!

We are offering frozen semen at $1,100 (Money back minus 10% or return service if NIL pups) Call, SMS, or Email - Vince 0421-569 259 vince@vtgroup.com.au -9-

NEXT we have a nice litter of seven pups by El Grand Senor (April 2008 Where’s Pedro x Elgrando Girl).

Registered by Robert Cleland from Riverstone, the one dog and six bitches are from the well bred bitch, Crafty Annie (July 2009 Bit Chili x Valeri’s Purse), whose dam is by Most Awesome x Many Tricks).

She is from a litter of ten named, which included Crafty Graham, Crafty Hen, Crafty Jamie, Crafty John, Crafty Joseph, Crafty Lady, Crafty Marg, Crafty Mark and Crafty Warwick.

Their dam also produced winners from her three other litters, by Made To Size, Pure Octane and Slater.

Crafty Annie raced 15 times, for four wins and two placings, winning three times over 440 metres at Sale (25.44) and also over 400 metres at Warragul (23.21).

She had an all winning first litter of seven, whelped in May 2013 by Cosmic Chief, which produced Angry Lightning, Angry Thunder, Bobby In Motion, Bro in Motion, Cobber In Motion, Cosmos King and Lord Orion.

She has since whelped a litter of two dogs and four bitches, whelped in January 2016 by Magic Sprite.

Talking Breeding Continued

NEW SOUTH WALES New South Wales Whelping Report Week Ending November 30, 2016 Sire/Dam

Breeder Dog

Bitch

Barcia Bale x Bourbski Fever

1

1 R. Davidson

Buck Fever x Fancy Nangar

2

3 Tracsan Racing

Dyna Villa x Derenger

2

3 R. Board

El Grand Senor x Crafty Annie

1

6 R. Cleland

Go Wild Teddy x Camden Blue

4

3 D. Rogers

Kinloch Brae* x Are Jai Que

8

4 A. Quirk

Magic Sprite x Kingsbrae Sam Rocky Bale x Missile Flash

1 2

1 C.Northfield 2 S. Mawby

Spring Gun x Flame Top

5

1 D. Lee

* Import or O/Seas based Totals

26 24 9 litters (Ave

THIS week’s review of litters selected from the NSW Whelping Report for the week ending November 30, 2016, begins with a litter of five pups by the underrated NSW sire, Buck Fever (December 2009 Brett Lee x Kiacatoo Pearl.

Registered by Tracsan Racing from Cudal, the two dogs and three bitches in the litter are from the well bred bitch Fancy Nangar (August 2013 Collision x Flash Fancy), whose dam is by Brett Lee x Miss Fancy (Barneys Alarm* x Gay’s Fancy).

She is from her dam’s second Collision litter, which included Nangar Doll, Nangar Flame, Nangar Flash, Nangar Star and Nangar Storm.

Their dam also produced very good winners from her first Collision litter, and five other litters, by Bombastic Shiraz (twice), Kinloch Brae*, Premier Fantasy* and Spring Gun. Fancy Nangar raced 23 times, for seven wins and seven placings, winning twice over 516 metres at Dubbo (29.90) with single wins over 520 metres at Wentworth Park (29.95), 535 metres at Richmond (30.81), 407 metres at Grafton (23.09) and 472 metres at Bulli (29.90) where she also won over 515 metres (28.69).

Got pups to sell Why not advertise here Contact Graham Lunney 0488 669 886 Email: Grand Litter advertising@victoriangreyhoundweekly.com.au

Seven for Teddy CAMDEN breeder, Douglas Rogers has a nice litter of seven pups on the list this week by international stud success Go Wild Teddy (August 1998 Head Honcho x Web Of Silence).

The four dogs and three bitches are from the well bred, proven producer, Camden Blue (February 2008 Collision x Camden Shiraz), whose dam is by Black Shiraz x Here’s Camden (Grove Whisper* x Camden Girl).

She is from a litter of eight named, which included Busted Bird, Point Two Over, Random Test, Screwed Driver, Snowsill, Tank Commander and Winning Rink).

Their dam also produced winners from her other litters, by Collide, El Galo, Swift Fancy and Where’s Pedro.

Camden Blue raced 73 times for 14 wins and 20 placings, winning five times over 515 metres at Gosford (29.99), where she also won three times over 400 metres (23.06) and four times over 520 metres at Dapto (30.14), where she also won twice over 600 metres (35.00).

She has nine named offspring from her very good first litter, whelped in May 2013 by College Causeway* which produced Bella Elle, Camden Gossip, Camden Valleyway, Casino, Joe’s Redback, Key’s Angel, Loaded Musket, Old School Mates and Rudianos.

She has since whelped a litter of three dogs and five bitches, by Barcia Bale, born in January 2016.

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Talking Breeding NSW Continued

NSW STUD SERVICES November 2016

A dozen for Kinloch* WERRINGTON COUNTY breeder, Ashley Quirk has a nice litter of 12 pups on the list this week, by international stud success, Kinloch Brae* (August 2005 Craigie Mo Town x Greys Free Style), who has become extremely popular with Australian breeders.

The eight dogs and four pups in the litter are from the well bred bitch, Are Jai Que (November 2012 El Grand Senor x From Somewhere), whose dam is by Magnificent Love x Lost With You (Collision x Leba Com. She is from a litter of five named, which included Blue Cherokee, Grand Prox Girl, Here’s Archie and Senorita Escobar, with their dam also having winners on file from her only other litter, whelped in May 2014

by Magic Sprite.

On the track she raced 32 times, for 19 wins and nine placings with wins including four over 520 metres at Wentworth Park (29.98) and four over 520 metres at Dapto (29.70), where she also won twice over 297 metres (16.85).

Spring Gun litter OUR final litter for review has six pups by the underrated sire, Spring Gun (December 2010 Bombastic Shiraz x Ready For Rain).

Registered by Somersby breeder, David Lee, the five dogs and one bitch are from the well bred, unraced bitch, Flame Top (September 2011 Where’s Pedro x Passionate Black), whose dam is by Elite State x Sunnyside Girl* (Trade Official x Advent Lady).

She is from a litter of nine named, which included Black Goose, Blue Coconut, Classic Sahara, Our Tiger Lil, Passionate Pedro, Sahara Midnight, Unleash Adam and Where’s Ukral.

Their dam also produced winners from her two other litters, whelped in January 2008 by Mandagery Man and December 2009 by Surgeon.

She has three named offspring on file from her first litter, Acrostar, Flying Urkal and Invasion, who were whelped in February 2015, by Lochinvar Marlow.

THE NSW Stud Service report for the month of November showed further improvement, from the rock bottom figures reported at the peak of the Ban fiasco.

There were 54 services registered in November, by 26 different sires, with the following sires registering multiple services.

8 Barcia Bale.

4 Fanregas, Magic Sprite, My Bro Fabio and Shakey Jakey.

3 Buck Fever, Fernando Bale and Taylors Sky*.

2 Banjo Boy, El Grand Senor and Spring Gun. Let us now look at the cumulative figures for the period January to November, for all sires with multiple services registered in NSW. 45 Barcia Bale.

37 Dyna Double One. 32 Fabregas.

28 Magic Sprite.

21 Fernando Bale.

19 Kinloch Brae*.

17 El Grand Senor.

15 Buck Fever.

14 My Bro Fabio.

13 Don’t Knocka Him. 11 Collision and Spring Gun. 10 Cosmic Rumble.

9 Dyna Villa and Swift Fancy.

7 Shakey Jakey.

6 Banjo Boy and Bekim Bale.

5 KC And All*, Kiowa Producer* and Taylors Sky*.

4 Brett Lee, Hay Fergus, Keybow, Kiowa Mon Manny*, Oaks Road, Paw Licking, Sulzanti and Where’s Pedro.

3 Awesome Project, Cape Hawke, Jarvis Bale, Lochinvar Marlow, Premier Fantasy* and SH Avatar*.

2 Black Magic Opal, Disintergrate, Head Bound, Irinka Luca, Kayda Shae, Milldean Panther*, Paradise Madison*, Rocky Bale, Shoulders, Smooth Fancy, Stagger and Tuiaki.

Over the next couple of weeks we should have the December Service statistics for both Victoria and NSW, after which we then be able to bring you the full year report for both states.

This will include the full list of all greyhounds with services registered in both states for the full year 2016.

Editor

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NSW NEWS

TRAINER ALERT - ARSENIC THRESHOLD GRNSW reminds participants that arsenic at a mass concentration above 800 nanograms per millilitre in a sample of urine taken from a greyhound is a breach of the Greyhound Racing Rules.

Arsenic is a naturally occurring trace element that is normally present in greyhounds at very low levels as a result of normal dietary intake. An excessive amount of arsenic, however, has an effect on the cardiovascular system and therefore is a prohibited substance when present in a sample at concentrations above that which would naturally occur through routine nutritional sources.

The threshold set in the Greyhound Racing Rules has been determined following a national population survey that measured urinary arsenic levels in 2849 greyhounds sampled on race day. It has been set at a level to allow for normal amounts of arsenic supplementation through routine nutritional sources.

Trainers are advised to be extremely cautious using products that contain arsenic close to racing as this may inadvertently lead to a rise in urinary arsenic levels. The administration, particularly by injection and on multiple occasions or at larger ‘off-label’ doses, of certain registered vitamin supplements close to racing may result in a level of arsenic in a subsequent sample that exceeds this threshold. Trainers are therefore advised to avoid the use of these supplements close to racing.

Examples of injectable vitamin supplements that contain arsenic include: NV Ferrocyl Injection (Sodium Cacodylate 6.4 mg/mL), NV Jurocyl (Sodium Arsanilate 50 mg/mL), TROY Invigorate As Injection (Sodium Arsanilate 50 mg/mL) and Jurox ARCYL Solution For Injection (Sodium Arsanilate 50 mg/mL).

Participants are advised to follow good husbandry practices including using gloves to prepare the greyhound’s food, not allowing the greyhound to lick human skin and not storing medication within the kennels.

While there is generally no medical indication for arsenic supplementation in a healthy greyhound fed a balanced diet, where veterinary advice indicates these

supplements are required, they should be given following the labelled advice of the manufacturer and ensure an adequate withholding period is followed prior to racing. As always, participants are encouraged to err on the side of caution when using any product that may contain cobalt.

Compliance with this rule will be enforced by GRNSW through all available means including regular kennel inspections, inspections of medications and treatment records, and regular out of competition testing, as well as through routine race day sampling.

This information is provided for general information purposes only. GRNSW makes no statement, representation or warranty about the accuracy or completeness of this information including in relation to the suitability of any products.

http://www.grnsw.com.au/ INVITATION Invitation to all NSW Owners, Trainers, studmasters and Breeders. If you have a story to tell about the part you play in greyhound racing, let us know, bred a litter, have a special greyhound, whatever, we’d love to hear from you. editor@victoriangreyhoundweekly.com.au

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Launceston Cup Review

Pantera Nera’s Launceston Cup Tasracing Website News

THE Gavin Burke-trained Pantera Nera ($1.40) continued his domination over Tasmania within the last month to produce a clean sweep in two major races to take out the $40,000 Group 2 A Total Car Rentals Launceston Cup (515m) at the Luxbet Racing Centre in Launceston on February 13.

(Collision x Go Mighty Mouse). He is raced by the Palm Ridge Syndicate and trained by Gavin Burke at Hazelwood North in Victoria. He has now won 28 races and been placed on 16 occasions from his 53 starts.

The Launceston Cup first prize of $40,000 brings Pantera Nera’s overall prizemoney to $257,432. 100th on the all-time prize money list.

The time-honoured event is one the oldest feature finals in Australia. It was first run in 1936 and has no doubt seen its fair share of drama over that long period of time.

In 2007 the cup was won by Capriccio provided a trifecta for trainer Ted Medhurst. While in 2009 the cup saw a win to dual Tasmanian Greyhound of the Year Big Moose. In 2012 and 2013 the Cup was won by Graeme Bate trained chasers Radley Bale and Xylia Allen. The last two years in 15 and 16 the race was won by New South Wales sprinters Brad Hill Billy and Fantastic Spiral.

The Launceston Club conducted the Cup from 1936 onwards at the old White City complex until the club moved to the new track at Tasman Park in 2005 and Monday night’s Cup was the 10th staged on the circuit located inside the Mowbray Racecourse and Harness track. Listed below is the full honour roll.

1936 Win Sheen, 1937 Loch Neagh, 1938 Gambol, 1939 Polly Sheen, 1939 Aberdeen, 1939 Dan's Gift, 1940 Dancoma, 1941 Black Orchid, 1942 All Dixie / Shirarch (DH), 1943 Some Carlton, 1944 Young Progress, 1945 "Not Held", 1946 Losma Lady, 1947 King Goldsby, 1948 Chief Agricola, 1949 Erin's Ace, 1950 Sheehan Lass, 1951 Dawn's Duty, 1952 Some Ben, 1953 Rusty's Hope, 1954 Martin Bluff, 1955 My Cheetah, 1956 Royal Kara, 1957 Murmungee, 1958 Ebony Minda, 1959 Woodford Pride, 1960 Nippy Cola, 1961 Western Idol, 1962 Dottie Too, 1963 Ophir Gold, 1964 Pine Birch, 1965 Macdillon, 1966 Hoodwinker, 1967 Ophir Glitter, 1968 Persian Opera, 1969 Michael Craig, 1970 Society Dancer, 1971 Janker's Star, 1972 Dalmore Prince, 1973 Mountain Rock, 1974 Jamin John, 1975 Mystery Bridge, 1976 Mystery Bridge, 1977 Dynamic David, 1978 Fire Tasson, 1979 Spotted Toby, 1980 Highland Summer, 1981 Anymore Anne, 1982 Dinkum Castle, 1983 Glendale Irish, 1984 Sheila's Teresa, 1985 Blue Breeze, 1986 Falcon Prey, 1987 Glenavon Raider, 1988 True Vintage, 1989 Going National, 1990 Blazenka's Flyer, 1991 Painted Hilux, 1992 Talkaman, 1993 Wary's Desire, 1994 Flash Billy, 1995 Zoom Fox, 1996 Two Codes, 1997 Pezza's Tiger, 1998 Olympic Vision, 1999 Fine Horizon, 2000 Fine Horizon, 2001 Top Shiraz, 2002 Jeanie's Queen, 2003 My Boy Speedie, 2004 Final Image, 2005 Obie Trice, 2006 Wongawillicath, 2007 Capriccio, 2008Akka Boy, 2009 Big Moose, 2010 Gardam Prince, 2011 Fisherman, 2012 Radley Bale, 2013 Xylia Allen, 2014 Varcoe, 2015 Brad Hill Billy and 2016 Fantastic Spiral.

Gavin Burke with Pantera Nera after the Launceston Cup In becoming the fifth greyhound in history to win the Devonport/Launceston Cup double since Gardam Prince in 2010, the son of Milldean Panther remained unbeaten throughout the three-week series and bookmakers continued to hold Pantera Nera as the clear favourite backed into $1.60 pre-post for the final.

Trainer Gavin Burke was delighted with the victory; “This dog has with no doubt improved massively and running those times (29.31) with those splits is just fantastic,” said Burke.

“The key to a good dog is to have that right nature in travelling, and Pantera Nera just ticks all the right boxes.”

Coming away with a good break on the field at box rise, Pantera Nera soared through to the first corner running the splits of 4.99.

Going down the back in full flight, Pantera Nera (box 2) still leading all the way, continued that motion into the straight scoring by six lengths from Nangar Range ($15.40) (box 3) and Wynburn Toozie ($13.60) (box 8) in third.

“When you makes these big trips to tracks without trialling it takes another dog like him again to step up, and on fifteen different tracks it’s just a big help in these group races,” Burke said Pantera Nera is a Black dog whelped November 2013 by Milldean Panther from Go Jessie’s Girl, - 14 -

Group 1 Triple Treat Nicole Cheek.”

“I also want to thank the owners (Hashtag Syndicate), who are really easy to train dogs for.”

Lightning Frank will return to The Meadows this week for heats of the Group 1 Australian Cup.

Lightning Frank’s Second Group 1 at the Meadows in the Temlee GRV Website

Lightning Frank ($8.70) came out humming to score a commanding win in the $145,000 Group 1 Temlee (525) on the opening night of the 2017 Australian Cup Carnival.

Having claimed the Group 1 Silver Chief at The Meadows in January, Lightning Frank made it 15 wins from 25 starts when clocking a sizzling 29.67sec for hobby trainer Mathew Wright of Allansford and claiming his second Group 1 in the invitational sprint.

Lightning Frank was always going to take a power of beating after settling in front of the elite hand-picked field from box seven, and even gallant performances from placegetters Jesaulenko ($9.40) and Zambora Brockie ($4.30) weren’t enough to seriously threaten the winner.

“It’s a huge thrill just to receive an invitation to this race, let alone win it,” elated trainer Mathew Wright said after Lightning Frank snared the $100,000 first prize.

A small-time trainer and full-time fencing contractor, Wright is pinching himself at having a dual Group 1 winner in his kennel.

“He’s a once in a lifetime dog for dad (Kevin) and I. In fact, I really need to acknowledge dad, because I work full-time so I rely on dad to do a lot of the work with our dogs.”

“Lightning Frank is a greyhound we’ve had to show a lot of patience with because he showed a lot of ability early on but he was often pulling up with niggling little injuries,” Wright said.

“But I’ve received plenty of good advice from different people such as (breeder) Barry Smith and (trainer) Steve Elsum, as well as vets like Des Fagan and

BURN ONE DOWN’S ZOOM TOP

Hot favourite Burn One Down confirmed his status as Australia’s number one stayer at The Meadows on Saturday with a runaway victory in the Group 1 Zoom Top (725m), the first of three invitation events that headlined the opening night of the Australian Cup Carnival.

It was Burn One Down’s first victory at Group 1 level, with Jason Thompson’s freakishly talented son of Buck Fever producing as dominant a performance as you would see in elite company.

Thompson’s wife Seona said the victory was especially satisfying with the superstar’s owner/breeders, the Pringle family, making the long but rewarding journey from central NSW. “The owners have come all the way down from Orange in NSW so that makes it all the more special,” she said.

Burn One Down stifled betting on the $75,000 tothe-winner Zoom Top, starting at $1.30 from box two, and the prohibitive quote proved to be spot on as he treated the best distance gallopers in the land with contempt.

After beginning well, Burn One Down pushed through to be sitting ominously in second place behind It’s A Bird with one lap to go.

Burn One Down pounced on the lead in the back straight and exploded clear, powering to the line as he defeated kennelmate Trip To Eden ($11.30) by an everwidening nine lengths in 42.23sec, giving champion mentor Thompson a memorable Group 1 quinella.

Outsider Jaimandy Hatty ($30.40) ran third, completing a Victorian trifecta.

The Zoom Top was Burn One Down’s 22nd win from 37 starts and enhanced his sensational record over 725m at The Meadows to eight wins from nine appearances.

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More Australian Cup Carnival Action Fanta Bale leads all the way in Rookie Rebel

Fanta Bale enhanced her near-faultless middle distance record with a dominant all-the-way victory over one of the best 600m fields ever assembled in the Group 1 Rookie Rebel invitational at The Meadows on Saturday night.

Trained by Robert Britton, one of Australia’s most successful middle distance and staying conditioners, for the country’s leading breeder Paul Wheeler, Fanta Bale claimed her second 600m Group 1 trophy at The Meadows, having also led throughout in the Hume Cup last October.

Chasing back-to-back feature victories after winning the Group 3 Perth Cup Consolation at her previous start, the daughter of 2012 Topgun hero David Bale was the $4.40 second elect from box three in the star-studded Rookie Rebel.

In a field of incredible depth, rails runner Reefton Treasure was the $3.30 favourite, with three-time Group 1 winner Dundee Osprey ($5.70), powerhouse Blazin’ Bomber ($5.80) and reserve Extreme Magic ($6.70) all well-supported.

Fanta Bale looked the likely leader and after showcasing great early speed to lead Blazin’ Bomber she refused to surrender her hard-won advantage, defeating Blazin’ Bomber by one and a half lengths in 34.16sec, with Extreme Magic running third.

“It was a super field and Blazin’ Bomber was the dog I was most worried about because I knew he had the pace to go with Fanta Bale early,” Robert Britton said.

“She (Fanta Bale) is an incredibly good beginner on the bends because she cuts straight to the fence leaving the others to get caught in the backwash.”

Fanta Bale now boasts the imposing record of 18 from 27, with her only defeat in seven middle distance assignments being a third in a Sale Cup heat.

She will now revert to sprinting for the Australian Cup, with Britton resisting the temptation – for the time being – to test her as a stayer in the Group 1 Super Stayers.

“She’ll contest a heat of the Australian Cup this week,” Britton said.

“It was a tough decision whether to enter her in the Australian Cup or not because I’m very keen to try her over 700m.

“You never know with any greyhound if they will be able to stay or not until you try them, and she may not quite be strong enough to stay, but if she can it is much easier racing than in the sprints because the depth of quality is a lot less.”

For more information please contact: Neil Brown AGRA Publicity Officer Tel: 03 97691234 Mob: 0423 129 950 nbrown@agra.com.au

The 2017 Australian Cup Carnival continues tomorrow night at The Meadows, with the eight heats of the Australian Cup and three heats of the Australian Super Stayers.

Breeding based selections THIS week we are introducing a new segment to Victorian Greyhound Weekly, with selections for Saturday night meetings at The Meadows.

As I have said many times over the years I don’t consider myself to be a great tipster, but after many requests I have decided stick my neck out and have a go.

The three selections for each race are in box draw order, and selected primarily on the greyhound’s breeding, box draw, then current form, in that order.

The Meadows—Saturday February 25 - Selections Race 1 - 2 Alpha Demeter, 5 Flyrite and 7 Pepper Fire.

Race 2 - 1 Eminent Reality, 3 Buck Forty and 4 Cavalcade.

Race 3 - 1 Striker Light, 3 Daithy Allen and 7 Aston Bolero.

Race 4 - 6 Ebby Ripper, 7 Jaimandy Hatty and 8 It’s A Fling Race 5 - 1 Fanta Bale, 5 Shima Song and 6 Aston Dee Bee. Race 6 - 1 Rippin Hayne, 4 Aqua Cheetah and 7 Benteke.

Race 7 - 3 Alera Bale, 5 Burn One Down and 8 Miss Foxy Lee. Race 8 - 4 Felton Bale, 5 Dyna Boomer and 8 Lightning Frank.

Race 9 - 1 Blazin Bomber, 4 Helga Bale and 8 Pop The Cork.

Race 10 - 2 Aeroplane Bob, 4 Demon Bale, and 8 Shima Bar. Race 11 - 5 Dundee Calypso, 7 It’s A Bird and 8 Melissa’s Pride.

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Coursing Coursing Club News

Remote Control Lure REMOTE CONTROL COURSING LURE TRAX 4WD modified, Soft fat tyres, sound attracter, toy tow bar, 100kph

Note to all Coursing Club Secretary's: you are invited to submit details of all your club’s activities for this column which features every week.

Following last week’s successful 2016 Awards night at Sandown, all coursing enthusiasts are now looking forward to the 2017 Coursing Season with Graham Moscow 0412 243 655 great anticipation.

This car is not a small cheapie, the car is TRAX 4WD News on the 207 Coursing calendar will appear Truck, however Graham Moscow from Greyhound Gear in this column as soon as it become available.

Victorian Greyhound Weekly supporting Coursing calls it car.

The car must be safe and big enough so pups can't ____________________________________________ drag off to the dam.

All Weather Coats Theory is to course pups three to six months in a pack, a maximum of four to five times.

Elite State lodge have coursed five litters this year and found this method works 100% Pups that chased in pack were all easy break ins.

Wheeler kennels purchased a car and Brendan Wheeler said he was very happy with it.

Longwood trainer Michael Barry has just ordered a car and Greyhound Gear are currently modifying it for him.

Graham has a video of pups chasing the car, which he will email the link to, if you contact him.

I have had a look at the video and it won’t take long to convince you what a fantastic product this is, and just All weather coats. Wadded and lined. Velcro how keenly the pups chase after it. closure. Little zip on the neck part to clip a lead on.

Looks certain to be a valuable tool for breeders to Sizes small, medium, large and xlarge. ( 27", 29", educate their young pups with, and from the look of it, it 31", 33"). Greyhound and whippet size. Coat sales will make the breakers job much easier when the pups go to benefit GAP Tasmania as they do not receive full him, or if you are breaking your own pups in. funding. Greyhound coats $55 each. Whippet Why not give Graham a call and have a chat with him $50.00. about this amazing product.

Contact Liz Breukink : He can then answer any of your question, discuss (03) 5672 8484 pricing options, delivery time etc.

0404 499 385 Graham Moscow 0412 243 655 Whelped a litter recently? *Also have a look at their website for your greyhound muzzles, coats, collars & leads needs Why not send us a pic? and tell us about it. editor@victoriangreyhoundweekly.com.au

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If you have a Nostalgia contribution email to editor@victoriangreyhoundweekly.com.au

This week we continue our look back at Victoria’s leading metropolitan sires and their best winning offspring over the past 40 years, with the 1987 Victorian Metropolitan Sires List.

www.victoriangreyhoundweekly.com.au 18

BRED TO WIN

Windy Millar*

Our weekly selection of greyhounds to follow, based on their breeding and recent performances.

FLASH INTENTION (Black dog, March 2015 Barcia Bale x Uno Lesson) Trained at Pearcedale by Todd O’Neill.

Raced six times for a win and two placings and looks to have plenty of promise.

Won from box eight at Warragul over 460 metres on February 14 (26.81), then stepped up to 595 metres at Sandown (SAP) on February 19 from box four, when third, beaten 3.86 lengths in the race won by Sheza Slingshot (34.74).

Big step up from 460 metres at Warragul to 595 metres at Sandown. Watch him next time.

JUGGERNAUT TRAIN (Black dog, January 2015 Fabregas x Total Confusion) Trained at Tooradin by Debbie Selleck.

Raced eight times for two wins and three placings and impressed when third over 515 metres at Sandown, (SAP) February 19, from box seven, beaten 4.53 lengths in the race won by Pupetta Maresca (2.68).

Prior to that had finished six there off box six after winning over 460 metres at Warragul (26.24) on January 21 from box one.

Handling the rise in class and distance OK and shouldn’t take long winning again.

BACKIN’ BILLY (White & fawn dog, January 2015 Where’s Pedro x Elite Fairy), trained at Nambrok by Benjamin Divirgillio.

Impressed in his five starts for three wins and a second.

Won Shepparton 450 metres, box seven, January 9 (25.95), then won there again from box 3, January 16 (25.64) before second from box one over 460 metres at Warragul, January 24, beaten 3.75 lengths (26.07), before winning there from box seven on January 28 (25.85).

Stepped up in class and distance to 515 metres at Sandown (SAP), on February 19 when fourth from box seven, beaten 12.3 lengths in the race won by City And Colour (29.96) after striking trouble.

Sell your pups here

August 2006 Honcho Classic (Head Honcho x Sure Lass) x Any Time Soon (Staplers Jo x Toss Spirit) 52 Starts 14 wins 23 placings Won 2009 Group 1 Belfred Stakes, and 2008 Group 3 Kasco Stakes, with placings at Group level.

Outstanding winning percentage as a sire. $700 Frozen, Bendigo or Sandown Contact Richard 0400 578 533

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If your greyhound is flat or has a minor or major injury leave the suit on to assist with recovery and injury repair.

Tony and Robyn Atkins Phone: 02 6767 1475 Mobile: 0416 110 326

Email: advertising@victoriangreyhoundweekly.com.au

Email: atkinsequipment@bigpond.com - 19 -

Looking Back “Maddog” down under.

By Roger Clark

First printed in the US Greyhound Review 2007.

UNDOUBTEDLY one of the highlights of my 2006 Greyhound racing year was the visit to Australia of American Greyhound journalist, Bob McKinnon (aka Maddog McDermutt’), albeit the time spent down under was far too brief.

“Maddog McDermutt’ writes for the National Greyhound Review, a magazine of the National Greyhound Association, published in Abilene, Kansas.

That mag has some 3500 subscribers, but they say the readership is enormous, considering there are 45 tracks. That one magazine could do the rounds of all trainers, assistants, track personnel from clubhouse to parking lot attendants, as well as families who peruse one copy, meaning readers greatly outnumber subscribers. Membership of the National Greyhound Association gives you an automatic subscription to The Greyhound Review, a monthly periodical.

“Maddog” started his career as a fictional character created by. Robert Scott McKinnon, a former Greyhound trainer and school teacher.

Robert was the author of five young reader’s novels: Moose, Bruce and the Goose, Jesse’s Hound, To Yellowstone: A Journey Home, Down Under Jones, and The Haunted Aquarium Castle, and three musicals and three plays.

The fictional character, “Maddog” and the old gang, such as Fleas Finnigan, Hugh Mungas, Little Elsie, Mangy Martinez, Stan Dupp, Ben Dover, Joe Squat The Ragman, month after month appeared in satirical productions on the subject of dog racing.

Some years ago, Maddog went a bit too far, however, with his “Maddog’s Eleven Commandments,” in which Maddog highlights 11 problems with Greyhound racing in the US (from his point of view) that were detrimental to the future of Greyhound racing.

However, a few delegates to the NGA took exception to his ramblings, and the Editors pulled the pin, with his column ultimately withdrawn. But a reader backlash ensued and after some consultation, Bob McKinnon suggested that if everybody missed “Maddog” so much, and they think he’s real, let’s run with it.

So it made a comeback, and it’s been a whirlwind adventure ever since.

McKinnon’s lovely wife, Suzy, picked up on the fictional character, Little Elsie, and became “Maddog’s” sidekick and photographer. Since then, “Maddog” and “Little Elsie” have been to over half the dog tracks in the USA, as well as tracks in England, Wales, Scotland, New Zealand and more recently, Tasmania and Melbourne. I first came across “Maddog” via an Internet Greyhound forum early in 2006, and was

delighted when a visit here came to fruition in November.

Suzy and Bob arrived in Melbourne, then flew straight to Hobart, and after a bout of jetlag, set about visiting the three tracks over there. I asked Bob his thoughts on Greyhound racing in Tasmania. He was a ‘big wrap’ for the tracks there, in particular the shape, which differs so much from those back home, where they seem hell-bent on sharp first turns, the racing is much smoother here.

Bob particularly asked me to publicly thank Tasmanian Tracks Manager, Peter Hayes, Pam and Doug Cassidy at Launceston, Karen Howard of Richmond, and especially Al and Di Clark of Devonport for their hospitality.

And you can be certain they will feature prominently in future stories in The Greyhound Review.

On to Melbourne on the Spirit Of Tasmania, where I met them. After lunch at home, plus the obligatory visit to the Melbourne Zoo and a quiet dinner at home discussing Greyhounds in general, we bedded them down early to ready for a hectic weekend.

Saturday morning we ventured to Healesville for an inspection and photo shoot at my nephew Matthew Clark’s kennels, where apart from the absolute sheer beauty of the surroundings, including the collection of parrots that arrived on schedule for their photo session, Bob was absolutely rapt with what he saw.

The concept that a ‘hobby trainer’ can run a set-up like that and participate at all levels, whilst being so far adrift of anything that happens back home.

Then it was on to an afternoon of straight track racing at Healesville, where they saw a straight track and grass track for the first time. And to say they were impressed would be an understatement.

Thanks are extended to Healesville Manager, Ken Hutchinson, who provided a guided tour of the facilities, more photos.

The best part of the story came when Matthew’s promising youngster, Betty’s Portrait, won.

It was a great finale to the day’s entertainment package.

Continued Page 21

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Special Feature “Maddog” down under - continued Home for a quick shower, then off to The Meadows for dinner and a great night’s racing, which really highlighted what we can do over here.

friendship will continue via the wonders of modern technology and the Internet.

Sure is nice to meet good people.

The reason for featuring this 2007 story this week is a forerunner to a 10 part series, reprinted courtesy of the US Greyhound Review, on Bob McKinnon’s visit to Australia, and his thoughts on greyhound racing here.

Watch out for the first installment next week: Part 1 - A night in Tasmania.

____________________________________________

Coursing Our visitors were really impressed with such a fantastic facility that was being utilized to its fullest, with tables full, kids everywhere and long queues at TAB windows.

Bob said it’s just fantastic, although he had a bit of trouble reading our form guides and didn’t trouble the bookie or tote.

But boy oh boy, they did have a great night out at The Meadows. He said not to forget to thank Margaret Long and Eddie Caruana for the guided tour of the facilities, including kennels, lure driver, judges, and a meeting with course commentator extraordinaire, Ron Hawkswell.

Bob had some email correspondence with an Australian caller, Tasmanian Steven Steel calling dogs at Ebro, Florida, in the US. He said Steven has broadcast in six countries and at 57 racetracks around the world, calling more than 85,000 races.

Up early again on Sunday, and it was off to Seymour for Greyhound Adoption Christmas Party, which has special appeal to them because of their long involvement with the Program back home and their own former racer, Jones, and their support with the adoption program.

When I asked Bob what he thought of Matthew’s set-up at Healesville, his eyes glazed over.

He said, “I would love to do what Matthew is doing, a few dogs, participate in all of it, more sport and passion than big business like it is back home.”

After a relaxing Sunday night, an Aussia BBQ at home, the GAP Party, and suddenly the three days were over.

At noon on Monday, Bob and Suzy were on a plane to Great Falls, Montana, and the snow.

Their visit was one of the great experiences of my 50 plus years in greyhound racing and our lifetime

Next week we also have a special feature written by One of Australia's most respected greyhound personalities, Ray Fewings.

Ray has written his recollections of his two trips to Ireland to see traditional coursing.

His recollections make a fascinating story so don’t miss next week’s Victorian Greyhound Weekly.

Visitors to our website can now read Greyhound Weekly in two open pages, magazine format.

Readers are also reminded that all previous editions of Greyhound Weekly are available on our website as a valuable reference for all greyhound racing and breeding enthusiasts.

www.victoriangreyhoundweekly.com.au - 21 -

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