PUPS TO SHINE AT SHELBOURNE

Ian Fortune

The weather conditions may have been biblical for the opening of the new Shelbourne Park last Thursday evening but there were still some fine displays from the unraced youngsters in the opening round of the Upcoming IGOBF National Puppy 0N2 525.

So bad was the rain that the track was rated a full second slow. Hopefully that won’t be the case this week, allowing some very bright prospects to post some fast times. The two semi-finals act as the feature on tonight’s nine-race card and it is worth paying attention.

EDWARD SET TO DAZL AGAIN

The opening heat features Razldazl Edward.

A well bred son of Ballymac Best, he flew from the second turn in his opening round assignment to lead in the closing stages for a five length victory. The manner in which he picked up those in front and powered clear suggested he could have a big future. He may ultimately prefer further but Dolores Ruth will be hoping her bright prospect can maintain the unbeaten start to his career.

Of his rivals, Ginger Jane was next fastest on the clock despite missing the start and running wide in parts. A half sister to the Kirby Memorial champion Knockeen Dazzler, she seems set to improve considerably and is nominated as a threat, while her litter sister Darbys Dancer is also open to all manner of improvement. 

Razldazl Edward is chosen to come home in front but he will need to be a little sharper at boxes or find the gaps at the right time. Ginger Jane can chase him home in second.

VHAGAR TO SWOOP

Vhagar is named after a dragon and she certainly flew in the opening round for Paul Cronin.

The daughter of Dorotas Wildcat is closely related to some real stars and she too looks to have a big future. Second to Highview Aurora for much of the journey last week, she took over as they turned for home before extending clear for a facile four length verdict.

Seven days on, Highview Aurora again looks the main threat but Vhagar should be too strong if avoiding early traffic. She can again pick up Highview Aurora to follow up her impressive debut success. Highview Aurora will certainly appreciate tonight’s less-testing conditions and will prove no pushover. She too looks open to massive amounts of improvement and shouldn’t be dismissed.  Highview Daniel, a brother to Highview Auora is another expected to step up on form and can also make the frame.