News Update:
The news aheadVera
Lots of great racing that includes Derby Lane entries in stakes races at other tracks. Saturday night March 21, Kiowa Knockout has been installed as the favorite in the $30,000 Naples Fort Myers Classic. The Derby Lane entry scored top points. AKR Ritters Gold and Its Quillan, also from Derby Lane are in the field. Read the story at http://www.naplesnews.com/news/2009/mar/20/greyhound-track-kiowa-knockout-favorite-going-satu/
At Mardi Gras, Derby Lane’s TMC’s Trail Boss must perform in semifinals on March 21, to earn a post in the March 27 stakes final. Flying Regent and Dublin Allstar, also from Derby Lane, might not make the final even if they scored a victory in their final race.
Derby Lane’s Flying Mancini is back on track Saturday night March 21 in race 8. The female fell in her Wednesday night race. We wanted to thank all of you for your inquiries and well wishes for Mancini. The phenomenal female is expected to be a McAllister entry for the first round of the $100,000 Distance Classic that begins Saturday March 28.
Dueling kennels: The Filipelli and McAllister kennel continue to duel for the top spot in the standings. McAllister is just one win behind Filipelli that nudged McAllister out of the top spot last month.
Third Eye Blind performs at Derby Lane on Sunday March 29 as part of the 97X Birthday Bash. Tickets are $5.00 each and $10.00 the day of the show. Visit http://www.97xonline.com for more details.
Vera’s news is on assignment at the AGTOA conference in Las Vegas. Keep your eyes on the distance greyhounds as they fine tune this week for the upcoming stakes. The news page will be updated Thursday night March 26 with an early preview of the first round of the $100,000 Distance Classic!. Happy racing to all!
TMC’s Trail Boss scores pair of win points in Classic
The heat is on for Saturday's semifinals
TMC’s Trail Boss didn’t let his St. Pete fans down in round three of the Mardi Gras Classic Wednesday night where the male went box to wire from post five to score a second set of win points. The heat is on for Trail Boss who ran last in his first start that blemished his sensational money record. Since then Boss appears to have adapted well, but he needs another big finish in this Saturday's semifinals to guarantee his slot in the March 27 final.
Meanwhile, Palm Beach’s blazing entry Yahoo Omar reeled off another powerful win and remains undefeated in the series. Omar was shipped to Palm Beach early to adapt to the oval which, proved to be a success. Although he is the one to beat, local star Hallo Gold Acre came alive to score a win and clock the fastest winning time in the third round heats.
There is no doubt that round four is a must-see race that will be drawn tonight at Mardi Gras. Here is the top twenty in the series with unofficial point totals. Yahoo Omar, 36, JD Fantastico, 33, Scatillac Bling, 27, Pfannys TinyTim, 27, (Derby Lane's TMC’s Trail Boss, 24), JS Xtememachine, 26, Hallo Gold Acre, 23, Penrose Lacie, 21, Ballymac Flite*, 21, Mighty Mckel, 21, Pfannys Noel, 21, Reward Jim, 20, Cals Thriller, 19, Laser Leo, 19, Kay J Fly Jack, 19, (Derby Lane's Dublin Allstar, 19), JS Eternal Juice, 19, Atascocita Chive, 17m Odd Ray, 17, BL Rounder, 17, Atascocita Hagen, 17.
Flyin Home Depot and Flying Mancini highlight Wednesday night races
Sprint Classic winner Flyin Home Depot and his stakes winning kennelmate Flying Mancini highlight the 660-yard races Wednesday night. Both greyhounds are tuning up for the upcoming Distance Classic. Mancini, who won last fall’s 660-yard challenge, will be a favorite in the race. Home Depot ran fourth in the same stakes and will also be among the favorites in the stakes.
Depot heads the first of the two high-caliber fields in race ten. Exceeded Dream; the daughter of former Distance Classic winner Extruding Dream has been installed as the program favorite in the race. Kiowa Muse, who has been posting speedy times over the longer distance, has been left out of the picks, but should not be discarded. He will win if he gets loose at the break.
Race thirteen features Flying Mancini and TMC’s Remedy, who is seeking four in a row. The mighty male might have the best record on track. Since the new season began in July, Remedy has finished in the money 50 of his 54 starts with 32 of them in the quiniela. Like his box breaking brother TMC’s Trail Boss, Remedy is untouchable when he bolts out on top. The two will give a preview into the upcoming stakes. Backwood Cash is also in the field and was a finalist in the 660-yard challenge. Tears Of Rage is a juvenile who moved to the top grade in her last start. She is seeking three in a row over the longer run. Both Remedy and Rage are sired by Lonesome Cry.
Other news:
Derby Lane’s entries in the 3rd round of the Mardi Gras World Classic drew unfavorably. All three are featured in the same race, which will cut their chances at scoring top points in this round. TMC’s Trail Boss, Flying Regent and Dublin All Star. All three are featured in race seven. Dublin All Star competes from post four, Trail Boss is in race 5 and Flying Regent will seek the top points from post eight. Best of luck to our Derby Dogs.
HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY
Reward Trent seeks four in a row Tuesday night
Distance greyhounds prepping for upcoming stakes
Derby Dogs knock 'em out at Naples
Posts have been drawn (see below)
Magic City’s top sprinter Reward Trent (Trent Lee x CB Debbie) is seeking a continued streak Tuesday night. The 74-pound male is going for four in a row in race ten over the 550-yard course. Trent is the current win leader with 28 since the new season began last July and ends June 30. He is the program favorite but could be pressured by De’s Spun if she gets loose.
Other sprinters highlighting the Tuesday night card are Dewey Millions, that won last month’s Rotary Governor’s feature. The youngster will face-off against top grade veterans Hardworking Women and Raynham/Taunton import Silver Shadow; both are going for three straight in race six.
Several of the longer distance greyhounds are tuning up for the Distance Classic that begins on March 28. The entrants must have run four distance races prior to the first round of the stakes to be eligible. Tuesday night littermates compete for the 660-yard win in race eight featuring Irish Angel and Cynthia Smoot. Angel, left for a stint at Ebro last year and was the undefeated finalist in the Derby. She encountered trouble in the final, but could redeem herself if chosen to represent the kennel in the upcoming stakes.
Race twelve features Sprint Classic finalist Extruder who can run both distances. His award winning father Extruding Dream won the Distance Classic in 2006 and set a new record time while qualifying for the final. Jamie Grodeki, also in the race, is also sired by Extruding Dream. Wanna Rumble is a full littermate to Smoot and Angel competing in race eight.
Walt Ford, whose mother Touche Baby, was named top brood in 2006, should score the win tonight. He is the class of the field. Although Walt is a slow breaker, he should pour it on at the end. His biggest competition could come from the consistent Kay Cocoa Puff. Happy Amber, a recent maiden graduate, is being tested over this distance for the Holland kennel. She posted a box to wire win from the rail last week, but might not get the same chance against this field.
Three represent Derby Lane in Naples Stakes Saturday Night March 21
Derby Lane invader Kiowa Knockout (Flying Penske x Flying Sweet Amy) scored top points (57) after semifinals of the Naples 660-yard Classic Saturday night March 14. The qualifying began on February 28 and featured five elimination rounds that advanced the top eight. Kiowa Knockout nearly swept the series, but her streak was ended by fellow “derby dog” Its Quillan in semifinals. And, Derby Lane’s third finalist ARK Ritters Gold earned his slot in the final by adding points to his back to back wins acquired during the first two rounds.
Kiowa Knockout who raced with the McAllister kennel in St. Pete will be among the three finalists from the Kelly Everett trained Easy Does It kennel that also includes Ray Ray and Flying Ingenue. Its Quillan who raced out of Wayne Ward and AKR Ritters Gold that raced with Abernathy, will both compete from Monster Mutt Racing, trained by Charlie Born.
Although the Derby Lane athletes appear to have stacked the deck, the local entries are far from being discarded. Holland Dusty posted a perfect quiniela record during the series to finish second high in points (51). Melissa Evans of the Jim Blanchard kennel trains Dusty and his kennelmates Barts Focalpoint and Barts Geisha.
The Naples stakes is the track’s richest race of the year. Along with the featured stakes, the track will offer live music by Whitehouse Band from 7:00 – 10:00 PM and prize giveaways. First post is at 6:45 PM Saturday night. The track is also hosting a special poker tournament beginning at 12:00 noon and a BBQ between 6:00 – 9:00 PM on March 21.
The $30,000 Naples Fort Myers Classic will be the 13th race Saturday night March 21. The race will be broadcast at all simulcast outlets and via streaming video at www.naplesfortmyersdogs.com
$30,000 Naples Ft. Myers Classic Derby
Race 13-Saturday Night March 21
In post position order
1-AKR Ritters Gold, 39 points (Lonesome Cry x Ezra Clem) owner Jim Abernathy, Jr. kennel Monster Mutt Racing, trainer Charlie Born
2-Holland Dusty, 51 points (Gable Dodge x Holland Snickers) owner James Blanchard or Michelle Edgar, kennel Jim Blanchard, trainer Melissa Evans
3-Kiowa Knockout, 57 points (Flying Penske x Flying Sweet Amy) owner Vince Berland, kennel Easy Does It, trainer Kelly Everett
4-Barts Focalpoint, 35 points (Jet Set Jerry x Barts Freida) owner John Weber, kennel Jim Blanchard, trainer Melissa Evans
5-Ray Ray, 36 points (DK’s Prime Time x Showtime) owner Sharon Williams, kennel Easy Does It, trainer Kelly Everett
6-Barts Geisha, 38 points (Gable Dodge x B’s Ozfast) owner William or Sharon Newpower, kennel Jim Blanchard, trainer Melissa Evans
7-Its Quillan, 44 points (Flying Penske x It’s A Doubleshot) owner Julia Ward, kennel Monster Mutt Racing, trainer Charlie Born
8-Flying Ingenue, 36 points (Dragon fire x Flying Desire) owner Vince Berland, kennel Easy Does It, trainer Kelly Everett
Derby dogs making news in FL
Kiowa Knockout earns top points for Naples final
Trail Boss rebounds at Mardi Gras
While the distance greyhounds on track are tuning up for the first round of the $100,000 Distance Classic that will begin on March 28, other Derby Lane athletes are competing for titles at other Florida tracks. Saturday night Derby Lane invaders Kiowa Knockout, Its Quillan and AKR Ritters Gold earned their posts in the March 21 final of the $30,000 Naples Ft. Myers Classic. The stakes race was a perfect match for the athletes that are expected to return for the Distance Classic.
Kiowa Knockout’s only loss in the series came Saturday to fellow Derby Dog Its Quillan, which scored the top points in race eight that was needed to guarantee her slot. Quillan was shipped to Naples from the Ward kennel. Knockout competed from the McAllister kennel at Derby Lane. AKR Ritters Gold posted a fourth place finish put him fourth high in points for the final. Shipped from the Abernathy kennel in St. Pete, Ritters Gold won his first two races, but finished seventh in round three. Knockout will seek the stakes win for the Easy Does It kennel at Naples and Quillan and Ritters Gold are both competing for Monster Mutt Racing. The race and posts will be drawn later this week.
Trail Boss rebounds at Mardi Gras
TMC’s Trail Boss, who was the runner-up in last week's Sprint Classic, rebounded in round two at Mardi Gras to collect the winning points on Saturday. The flashy male kicked off the second round series that was featured consecutively from race 2 through race 8 at Mardi Gras. Trail Boss broke third in the seven-dog field, but quickly rushed his way to the front. He kept his rivals at bay to win by a length. Flying Regent, also a finalist in the Sprint Classic was crowded early and finished eighth.
Palm Beach invader Yahoo Omar clocked a season’s best time of 29.69 and scored a second set of winning points. The recent stakes winner is a favorite in the series and appears, at this stage, to be the one to beat. Derby Lane’s third entry, Dublin Allstar, collected third place points.
Yahoo Omar and TMC’s Trail Boss share blazing box speed. They also share the same sire in former Derby Lane top dog Lonesome Cry. Round three of the Mardi Gras World Classic will be held Wednesday night March 18. Fans can watch and wager on both Mardi Gras and Naples at Derby Lane.
Weekend Headlines
Derby Dogs continue stakes quest at Mardi Gras and Naples Saturday night
Dueling kennels
Phenomenal pups debuting
Greyhounds tune up for Distance Classic
Along with the weekend runners on track at Derby Lane, several athletes are at other tracks competing in stakes races. At Naples Fort Myers Saturday night Kiowa Knockout is featured again in semifinals of the $30,000 Fort Myers Classic. She will head the field in race eight. Distant Times and Its Quillan of Derby Lane are also in the field vying for top points to advance to the final.
The next semifinal field is in race ten with Derby Lane’s AKR Ritter’s Gold hoping to grab the final set of win points and secure a post in the final. Flying Elektra also from St. Pete needs a good finish for advancement as well. After semifinals, the top eight will rest for a week and compete for the winning purse on Saturday night March 21.
Only three local sprinters made the trip to Mardi Gras for the $75,000 World Classic. Races 2 through 8 Saturday night at Mardi Gras features the second round qualifiers. TMC’s Trail Boss who appeared lost over the Mardi Gras oval in round one, will need to bounce back in this round. A little luck is on the male’s side as he drew into a seven-dog field. Flying Regent who finished fourth in last week’s Sprint Classic put forth a winning effort to score second place points in round one. He will face off with recent Palm Beach stakes winner Yahoo Omar, who worked his way through the pack for an impressive win in round one.
Last, but not least, is Dublin Allstar who finished fourth in round one despite trouble. He is pitted against another Palm Beach invader Mighty Mckel, who won handily in round one.
Filipelli & McAllister duel for the top slot in standings
Filipelli & O’Donnell kennel are holding a slight lead in the kennel standings against the powerful McAllister kennel that was recently nudged out of the top spot. Heading into the weekend Filipelli is just two wins in front.
Phenomenal pups debut
It’s always fun to watch new pups from a familiar sire or dam debut. Last night Softball Phenom ran a respectable second in his maiden debut. The pup and his littermates are the first group on track from Phenomenal Dream who won the 2007 St. Petersburg Derby. Last week Softball’s cousin Extruder was a finalist in the Sprint Classic. Both males where whelped from USS Top Dolly. Their sires are litterbrothers Extruding and Phenomenal Dream.
Friday night two more of Phenomenal’s pups compete. Baseball Phenom debuts in race 2 and Golf Phenom is featured in race four.
Another impressive looking youngster that won her maiden debut easily on Monday night is Raines kennel’s Craigie Macey. She won all three schoolers and aced her debut. She will compete in race 9 Friday night.
Distance runners tuning up for Distance Classic
Watch the distance races as greyhounds are tuning up for the first round of the richest distance race of the season. The $100,000 Distance Classic begins Saturday night March 28. The four round series will produce the final eight for the April 11 stakes final. You will want to mark that date on your calendar as 10 lucky fans will take home $500 cash each in the $5,000 Distance Classic cash giveaway on April 11.
Derby Lane's Kiowa Knockout remains undefeated in Naples Classic
Derby Lane’s Kiowa Knockout is doing just that at Naples Fort Myers where the black female from Flying Penske and Flying Sweet Amy has dominated the oval. Wednesday fans on track watched and wagered on Knockout, via simulcast, as she continued her winnning spree. The female scored a fourth in a row win and is sweeping the series. Sent from the McAllister kennel to the Kelly Everett trained Easy Does it kennel, Kiowa Knockout has cinched her entry into the final despite the outcome of the final qualifying round this Saturday night.
Bart’s Geisha and Holland Dusty, both from the Jim Blanchard kennel scored round three wins as well. The semifinals will be held Saturday night where the top eight will emerge to the stakes race final on Saturday night March 21.
Last night’s Mardi Gras race did not fare well for TMC’s Trail Boss who finished out of the money for the first time in 26 starts. Flying Regent, who finished fourth in the same stakes scored second place points in his first round. Dublin Allstar, also from St. Pete ran fourth in Regent’s field. Local Mardi Gras star Hallo Gold Acre was also upset by Palm Beach invader Mighty Mckel. Yahoo Omar, also from Palm Beach scored a set of win points to upset local entry Penrose Lacie.
Round two of the Mardi Gras race will be Saturday night March 14.
Derby Lane entries highlight Florida stakes Wednesday night March 11
Wednesday night’s simulcast at Derby Lane will feature several of our stars competing in two stakes races. At Mardi Gras (formally known as Hollywood) Derby Lane’s current 550-yard win leader TMC’s Trail Boss will face-off with a new set of rivals. The male who was the runner-up in last week’s Sprint Classic will compete in race 12 Wednesday night at Mardi Gras. Other Derby Lane entries include Flying Regent who was a fourth place finisher in the Sprint Classic and Dublin All Star who was sent two weeks ago.
The World Classic is the most popular open stakes race in the nation. Trail Boss, who raced with Filipelli and O’Donnell in St. Pete, will join a powerful roster fueled by O’Donnell’s superstar Hallo Gold Acre, the top dog at Mardi Gras. O’Donnell also collected Lincoln stakes race winner Ballymac Flite*. The World Classic rounds will be held in races 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 10 & 12.
Derby dogs are also featured at Naples in the 4th round of the Classic. The Derby Dogs have put the pressure on the local entries that escaped them in the tenth race where no Derby Lane entries drew. The Naples rounds will be held in races 6, 8 and 10. Flying Elektra and Kiowa Knockout will battle each other for the win in race six. Knockout is undefeated against Flying Elektra who won her last two.
In race eight four Derby Dogs will fight for the top points. Its Quillan in post one, Flying Rizzi in the four, Distant Times in the six and AKR Ritters Gold in the seven box. Both Ritter and Quillan have recorded two wins in the series. The tenth race features the majority of the local runners.
Both stakes races should offer great wagering opportunities and will be simulcast on track Wed. night. Best of luck to all of the contenders in both stakes.
Flyin Home Depot wins 34th annual Sprint Classic
Saturday night’s stakes race produced a small upset when Flying Home Depot (6) overtook TMC’s Trail Boss near the wire to collect a first Sprint Classic victory for the McAllister kennel. The Berland’s who owned all three McAllister entries, paraded on track with an entourage of local, national and international guests for the event. Fans on track that submitted their entry forms for the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Truck were also selecting their winner for the Sprint Stakes.
The boxes for Flying Mancini (7) and TMC’s Trail Boss (4) filled up fast with respectable forms in the reamaining boxes. Once the race was declared official Vey Weaver, Derby Lane President, drew the winning name. Timothy Arrington fromTampa, FL won the truck. Marketing Director Fran Williamson asked why he selected the number six. Timothy stated that his mother works at Home Depot.
Home Depot wasn’t a total upset in the field, as the champion has been a bridesmaid in former stakes. Last May he was the runner-up in the Gold Trophy Juvenile and in October Home Depot finished second to kenenlmate Flying Macbeth in the Fall Sprint. He also courses the longer run and completed the superfecta in last December’s 660-Yard Challenge stakes.
The beginning of the race was predictable when the fastest breaker, Trail Boss took the lead. What did surprise was that Flying Mancini wasn’t breathing down his back, instead, it was her kennelmate Flyin Home Depot who was in the hunt. Trail Boss gave an impeccable effort but Depot was too close and his long distance talent kicked in as he passed Boss near the wire. Mancini finished third followed by McAllister’s third entry Flying Regent.
Home Depot paid $15.60, $7.20 and $2.60 and headed the superfecta of 6-4-7-3 that paid $1,739.20. “This is the first time one of my dogs won the Sprint Classic,” said Berland in an interview. “I was expecting Mancini to win the race, but Home Depot had his own credentials.” The McAllister kennel has won nearly every stakes at Derby Lane and now they add the richest sprint to their portfolio. Born To Dream, Craigie Mr Venus, Extruder and Julia WW Garland completed the field. Next up is the $100,000 Distance Classic beginning March 28. $5,000 Cash Giveaway Saturday Night April 11. 10 Lucky winners will take home $500.00 cash each.
Congratulations NGA award winners TK Quick Strike and Starz Jenko. NGA members voted them the top distance and sprinter in the nation. Quick Strike is owned by Charter kennel and Starz Jenko is owned by Jack Sherck. The greyhounds will be honored at the Greyhound Hall of Fame in Abilene in April. Congratulations to these fine athletes.
Derby Lane to host 97X Concert on March 29
It’s back! Last year’s Birthday Bash was a success and this year’s event features Third Eye Blind. Tickets go on Sale Monday March 9 at 9:00 AM for $5.00. $10.00 day of event. Visit www.97xonline.com for all the details. Portion of proceeds from concert benefit the Moffitt Cancer Center.
Tri-Super Jackpot starts at $55,515 Friday Night
Sprint Classic and Truck Giveaway Saturday Night
Birmingham Racing Today picks Sprint Classic winner on Saturday AM show
Don’t miss your chance to collect a set of keys for the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 by entering to win the drawing Saturday night March 7. The truck giveaway will follow the 34th running of the annual Sprint Classic, which is race 10.
The impressive field is reminiscent of the 2006 Derby Lane Million where one female stood alone against seven males and won the historic stakes. Flying Mancini will face-off with her male counterparts and could repeat history. Although Mancini is the only female, she is not just any female. The red brindle beauty is without argument, the most talented female in the nation. No other female matches her multi-distance talents. She holds track records in two different states and is seeking a third stakes win at Derby Lane.
The Sprint Classic is all the buzz in the greyhound community and Kip Keefer will highlight the race on Birmingham Racing Today Saturday morning on WSPZ Radio. Fans interested in hearing the show can log on to www.690thesportsanimal.com. The show airs from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM, EST and 10:00AM – 11:00AM Central time.
Although Mancini possesses multi-distance abilities, she is facing the fast-breaking TMC’s Trail Boss. The top point getter in the series is also the fastest breaker in the bunch. Trail Boss is hard to run down when he takes the lead. He won the Matinee Idol in January and has recorded 24 consecutive money finishes of which, sixteen have been wins and twenty have been quiniela finishes. Filipelli is the only kennel to have won a previous Sprint Classic stakes. Cajun Cain won for the Brumage/Filipelli kennel in 2006 and clocked the fastest winning time of 30.10 in the stake’s history.
Craigie Mr Venus drew the coveted rail post and was last year’s Gold Trophy Juvenile winner. He is the oldest in the field. He was also a semifinalist in the Fall Sprint and has recorded nine quiniela finishes in his last eleven starts.
Flyin Home Depot was the runner-up to Venus last year and was the runner-up in the Fall Sprint. He also finished fourth, respectively, in the 660-Yard Challenge. Depot’s kennelmate Flying Regent was a finalists in last year’s Gold Trophy stakes. This will be his second stakes final.
Born To Dream was an entry in last year’s Sprint Classic and was a fourth place finisher in the Gold Trophy. His kennelmate Extruder makes his first stakes debut.
The Mobile invader hit the ground running at Derby Lane. Julia WW Garland took on the top grade competitors immediately and earned his post by having the best record of the three-way tie.
The $85,000 Sprint Classic is race ten Saturday night at Derby Lane and will be broadcast at all Derby Lane simulcast sites, on TRN and via live streaming video at www.derbylane.com Approximate post time for the race is 10:07 PM, EST.
Below is the field for the Sprint Classic
1-Craigie Mr Venus, 44 points (Dodgem By Design x Greys Starwishes), Lester Raines kennel, trainer Ken Lesperance, owner Steven Boyd.
2-Julia Ww Garland, 28 points, (Jimbo Scotty x WW Gale Finance), Wayne Ward, trainer John Graham, owner Julia Ward.
3-Flying Regent, 36 points (Kiowa Sweet Trey x Royal Tara), McAllister, trainer Barbara McAllister, owner Vince Berland.
4-TMC’s Trail Boss, 54 points, (Lonesome Cry x TMC’s Josalynn), Filipelli & O’Donnell, trainer John Filipelli, owner Eddie Mc Donald.
5-Extruder, 30 points, (Extruding Dream x USS Top Dolly), Magic City, trainer Doug Flint, owner Randy Finegan or Joe Ametrano.
6-Flyin Home Depot, 45 points, (Flying Penske x Shelbourne Moon*), McAllister, trainer Barbara McAllister, owner Vince Berland
7- Flyig Mancini, 48 points, (Kiowa Sweet Trey x Gable Acadia), McAllister, trainer Barbara McAllister, owner Vince Berland.
8-Born To Dream, 30 points, (Impossible Dream x Iwantthattrophy), Magic City, trainer Doug Flint, owner Randy Finegan or Joe Ametrano.
BREAKING NEWS
6:40 PM March 5, 2009
Field set for 34th annual Sprint Classic
TMC's Trail Boss scores top points
Wednesday night March 4, was the semifinal round for the $85,000 Sprint Classic. The two favorites bounced back after losses in round three. Filipelli & O’Donnell’s top dog TMC’s Trail Boss posted a third win in the four-round series to score the top points 54 in the series. McAllister’s Flying Mancini also scored a third set of win points to come in second place with 48 points. Flying Home Depot (McAllister) scored 45 points followed by Craigie Mr Venus (Raines) with 44 points.
McAllister’s third entry Flying Regent earned 36 points followed by Magic City’s Born To Dream and Extruder, both tallied 30 points each. A three-way tie with 28 points for the last slot was between Ward kennel’s Julia WW Garland and Alderson’s Lamorge Red Fish and Lamorge Venus. Julia WW Garland filled the final slot, as he was the only one of the three that posted a win in the series.
The draw and posts for the Saturday night feature race will be held in the Racing office Thursday night and posted right here on Vera’s News immediately following at approximately 7:00 PM, EST.
Congratulations to the finalists.
Below are the eight finalists. Not in post position order.
TMC’s Trail Boss, 54 points, Filipelli & O’Donnell
Flying Mancini, 48 points, McAllister
Flyin Home Depot, 45 points, McAllister
Craigie Mr Venus, 44 points, Lester Raines
Flying Regent, 36 points, McAllister
Born To Dream, 30 points, Magic City
Extruder, 30 points, Magic City
Julia WW Garland, 28 points, Wayne Ward
The 34th annual Sprint Classic will be the tenth race Saturday night. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 series truck will be given away immediately following the running of the Sprint Classic on Saturday.
Tri-Super Jackpot update
The Tri-Super Jackpot for Wednesday Night begins at $46, 231.00.
Eight greyhounds will rise to the top in Semifinals of the $85,000 Wednesday night. The results will be posted right here on Vera's News tonight, immediately following the tenth race.
News for Wednesday March 4
Tri-Super Jackpot begins over $41,000 Wednesday Matinee
Semifinals for Sprint Classic Wednesday Night
Wednesday promises to be a big doubleheader. The Tri-Super Jackpot swelled to $41,628.00 after no one selected the winning combinations in races five and seven Tuesday night. The matinee jackpot starts over $41,000. First post Wednesday matinee is 12:30 PM.
Wednesday night is the semifinal rounds for Saturday night’s $85,000 Sprint Classic stakes final. Those following the series that will be on track Saturday night will have a better than average chance at winning the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Truck to be given away following the running of the stakes race final. Upsets in round three have changed things up a bit, putting several runners in a must-win situation.
Race six features TMC’s Trail Boss who moved to third high in points after his streak was snapped in round three. Trail Boss is not under pressure to win. However, Bow Tie Brigade, who is in last place with 12 points, is under pressure to win. A win by Brigade would not guarantee the male a slot in the final, but would increase his chances based on the outcome of race ten. Julia WW Garland scored his set of win points from the rail post, but last Saturday’s rail position saw him finish fifth. Born To Dream will be a late threat and his kennelmate Extruder will be lethal if he gets loose early. Flying Regent should light the board. Lamorge Red Fish is running well and another second place finish will advance her to the final. Kelsos Scotsclan needs a win to put him in the running for a slot in the final.
Flying Mancini, who is waiting to hear if she will be among the elite eight recognized on the AGTOA All America Team, is the headliner in race ten. Arguably, she is the top female in the nation. Mancini’s streak was also halted in round three last Saturday. The multi-distance female is pitted against Craigie Mr Venus, who snapped her streak and moved into the top spot. Flyin Home Depot is also in the race and was an upset winner in round three that put him in a two-way tie for top points with Mr Venus. Both have 42 points and should coast into the stakes final. Lamorges Aces Up won the NOS XXI last fall and would have preferred to break from the outside eight instead of the rail post. Aces Up and Craigie Extra are both near the bottom with 13 points each. They both need to win this race that would give them 29 points, but would not automatically move them to the final. TNJ Super Hero, with 14 points, also needs a big upset to put him in a favorable position. Lamorge Venus is currently in 10th place and needs a spectacular performance to move to the final.
Vote for Drew!
Bissell is holding a pet contest and DREW, a fellow greyhound friend, is hoping to win the contest so that his favorite adoption group, South Eastern Greyhound Adoption will receive a donation. If you are interested in seeing a greyhound win the contest, please click on the link below and vote for DREW before the end of the week. The “Derby Dogs” wish DREW all the best.
HTTP://www.BISSELL.com/Redirect.asp?RP_id=99984
Breaking News Monday Night March 2, 7:00 PM, EST.
Semifinals have been drawn for Wednesday night
The last rounds for the $85,000 Sprint Classic were drawn moments ago. The races will be held in the sixth and tenth race Wednesday night. The top eight will compete in the March 7 final.
Race 6 Wednesday Night March 4 - Semifinal Round
1-Julia WW Garland, Wayne Ward, 25 points
2-Born To Dream, Magic City, 28 points
3-Kelsos Scotsclan, Lester Raines, 15 points
4-TMC's Trail Boss, Filipelli & O'Donnell, 38 points
5-Lamorge Red Fish, Alderson, 28 points
6-Flying Regent, McAllister, 28 points
7-Extruder, Magic City, 24 points
8-Bow Tie Brigade, Floyd & Porter, 12 points
Race 10 Wednesday Night March 4, Semifinal Round
1-Lamorge Aces Up, Magic City, 13 points
2-Flyin Home Depot, McAllister, 42 points
3-Flying Mancini, McAllister, 32 points
4-Craigie Extra, Charter, 13 points
5-Craigie Mr Venus, Lester Raines, 42 points
6-Lamorge Venus, Alderson, 20 points
7-TNJ Super Hero, Campbell Greyhound, 14 points
8-Little E Nation, Floyd & Porter, 18 points
Derby Lane invaders score top points in Naples Classic
The $30,000 Naples Ft. Myers Classic got underway Saturday night February 28. Forty distance runners competed in the first round seeking top points. The series features five qualifying rounds that will produce the top eight for the stakes race final Saturday night March 21. Derby Lane shippers won four of the five first round qualifiers. Distant Times, who shipped from the Filipelli & O’Donnell kennel, drew away from the field for trainer Danny Bossio of the Steubenville kennel at Naples to record the fastest first round time of 37.89. Its Quillan, who shipped from the Wayne Ward kennel, grabbed the top points as well as AKR Ritters Gold-an Abernathy shipper. Both greyhounds are competing from the Charlie Born trained Monster Mutt kennel. Easy Does It kennel collected their winning points with Kiowa Knockout sent from the McAllister kennel. Knockout is trained by Kelly Everett, who also kicked off the series with a win by Ray Ray from Flager.
Other Derby Lane shippers include: Starz Missa, Flying Elektra, WW Shys Drawing and Flying Rizzi. Point allocations are Win = 12, 2nd = 9, 3rd = 7, 4th = 5, 5th = 3, 6th = 2, 7th = 1, 8th = 0. Round two of the series is Wednesday March 4. Entries and results located at www.naplesfortmyersdogs.com
Tri-Super Jackpot over $36,000 for Monday Night March 2
The Tri Super is played in races 5 & 7 every performance. The jackpot will start at $36,299.00.
Streaks halted in round three of Sprint Classic
Saturday night’s third round of the Sprint Classic saw Flying Mancini and TMC’s Trail Boss upset in their heats. Last year’s Gold Trophy Juvenile winner Craigie Mr Venus gave an exceptional performance as he racked up a second set of win points in the series moving him into a two-way tie for the top spot. Lamorge Red Fish put forth a winning effort to score a second followed by Extruder, Flying Regent, Julia WW Garland, Little E Nation and TNJ Super Hero. Flying Mancini, was pinched back at the break and finished last. Her winning streak was ended.
Craigie Mr Venus was highly underestimated by those that may have forgotten that the Lester Raines kennel male won last year’s Gold Trophy Juvenile. Mr Venus paid $25.40, $11.20 and $7.40. Lamorge Red Fish paid $18.00 and $5.60. Extruder paid $10.40 to show. The Superfecta 5-6-4-All paid $3,740.40.
TMC’s Trail Boss broke slightly slower than his last two starts. His worthy opponents took full advantage of the situation and were right on top of him at the turn. Lamorge Venus took the front and led all the way to the homestretch. Flyin Home Depot poured it on to snatch the win away from Venus and a late surge by Born To Dream earned him second place points. Lamorge Venus settled for third and Trail Boss secured fourth place points. Kelsos Scotsclan, Craigie Extra, Bow Tie Brigade and Lamorge Aces Up completed the field.
The fourth and final round of the stakes will be held Wednesday night March 4. Only eight of the sixteen will get a shot at this year’s title. Below are the current point totals of the semifinalists. The races for Wednesday will be drawn Monday night and posted right here on Vera’s News immediately following.
$85,000 Sprint Classic semifinalists with current point totals
Craigie Mr Venus, 42 points, Lester Raines
Flyin Home Depot, 42 points, McAllister
TMC’s Trail Boss, 38 points, Filipelli & O’Donnell
Flying Mancini, 32 points, McAllister
Flying Regent, 28 points, McAllister
Lamorge Red Fish, 28 points, Alderson
Born To Dream, 28 points, Magic City
Julia WW Garland, 25 points, Wayne Ward
Extruder, 24 points, Magic City
Lamorge Venus, 20 points, Alderson
Little E Nation, 18 points, Floyd & Porter
Kelsos Scotsclan, 15 points, Lester Raines
TNJ Super Hero, 14, Campbell Greyhound
Craigie Extra, 13, Charter
Lamorge Aces Up, 13, Magic City
Bow Tie Brigade, 12, Floyd & Porter
Saturday Night February 28, is round #3 of the Sprint Classic in races six and ten. TMC's Trail Boss and Flying Mancini remain undefeated and will prove to be a battle of the sexes in the final if they both continue their winning ways.
Tri-Super Jackpot carryover for Saturday night is $32,298. The Tri-Super is played in races 5 & 7.
Breaking News Thursday Night February 26, 2009, 6:55 PM, EST.
Moments ago the races and posts were drawn for the third round of the Sprint Classic this Saturday night. Fans following the series will have a better than average shot at winning the Chevrolet Silverado.
Two greyhounds are undefeated in the series and it will boil down to a battle of the sexes in the final. Flying Mancini, who will compete in race six Saturday night is the leading female and arguably, the top female greyhound in the nation. Mancini is a multi-distance record holder in two states. Her fans say she is going all the way in the race.
For the males, TMC’s Trail Boss has led the way and collected seven in a row and a pair of wins in the first two rounds. His backers feel that he is the one to bring home the trophy for the males. His flashy start is unmatched. Although the two are favorites, the stakes have gone up since half of the field was eliminated Wednesday night. Now, the cream is rising to the top in the next two rounds that promise to be must-see races.
Below are the official races for round #3 of the Sprint Classic
Race six Saturday Night
1-Julia WW Garland, Wayne Ward
2-TNJ Super Hero, Campbell
3-Flying Mancini, McAllister
4-Extruder, Magic City
5-Craigie Mr Venus, Raines
6-Lamorge Red Fish, Alderson
7-Little E Nation, Floyd & Porter
8-Flying Regent, McAllister
Race 10 Saturday Night
1-TMC's Trail Boss, Filipelli & O’Donnell
2-Craigie Extra, Charter
3-Lamorge Aces Up, Magic City
4-Kelsos Scotsclan, Raines
5-Bow Tie Brigade, Floyd & Porter
6-Flyin Home Depot, McAllister
7-Lamorge Venus, Alderson
8-Born To Dream, Magic City
TMC’s Trail Boss and Flying Mancini remain undefeated in Sprint Classic series
Wednesday night’s Sprint Classic series saw TMC’s Trail Boss continue his winning spree and post seven in a row and a second consecutive win in the Sprint Classic series. His biggest nemesis Flying Mancini, also won her heat and recorded a second in a row in the series. It could boil down to the battle of the sexes after the Thursday night draw for round three. Below are the sixteen greyhounds that advanced to the next rounds. The draw will be posted right here on Vera’s News at approximately 7:00 PM, EST Thursday night February 26.
The top sixteen greyhounds for Saturday night’s Round #3 are listed below.
TMC’s Trail Boss 32
Flying Mancini 32
Craigie Mr Venus 26
Flyin Home Depot 26
Flying Regent 22
Julia WW Garland 22
Born To Dream 18
Lamorge Red Fish 18
Extruder 16
Little E Nation 16
TNJ Super Hero 13
Lamorge Aces Up 13
Lamorge Venus 12
Kelsos Scotsclan 12
Bow Tie Brigade 11
Craigie Extra 11
*Craigie Londoner 10 *He is the sub if needed
BBR Flyin Easy 9
Hardworkinwomen 8
Kiowa Muse 7
WW’s Tin Man 7
Kiowa Ice Man 5
Called Dynamic 5
Craigie Prime It 4
Kelsos Hathaway 4
Craigie Afresh 4
Chacha Susan 3
Deco Ellen Alone 1
Silver Geico 1
Jack’s Jet 0
El Moonstruck 0
Backwood Hombre - Scratched
DERBY LANE included in Fox 13 One Tank Trips "Hidden Treasures"
Fox 13's Dave Osterberg visited Derby Lane to highlight the "crown jewel" of Greyhound Racing
Click on the link to watch the show.
http://www.myfoxtampabay.com/dpp/good_day/one_tank_trip_derby_lane_021909
Round #2 Sprint Classic Wednesday Night
Races 4, 6, 8 & 10
Wednesday night’s second round of the Sprint Classic will be held in races 4, 6, 8 and 10. Filipelli & O’Donnell’s revered sprinter TMC’s Trail Boss is seeking seven in a row and a pair of wins. The McAllister kennel is top in points after capturing two of the four heats with his multi-distance female Flying Mancini and Flying Regent. And, McAllister’s Flyin Home Depot took second giving the kennel top points with 42. Magic City’s runner’s scored the second high in the first round series with a second place finish by Lamorge Aces Up and two thirds recorded by Born To Dream and Extruder.
Fans tracking the series will have a better shot at winning the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 series truck that will be given away during the night of the Sprint Classic on March 7. Thirty-one greyhounds will enter the Wednesday night races due to the scratch of Backwood Hombre after round one. The seven-dog field is the first on track Wednesday night featuring Kelsos Hathaway who will need a big finish to advance. Hathaway won the Fall Juvenile and has what it takes to score a stakes win. Lamorge Venus, who won the battle of the sexes in the Sweetheart Challenge, will be a strong threat in the race. She drew the seven post and with no one to her right, Venus should get a clear shot, as she typically, is one of the best rushers in the race. Although left out of the program picks, Kiowa Muse, who recently reeled off a string of wins, could upset if he clears early. Extruder likes the rail and should be a betting favorite.
Race six features round one winner Julia WW Garland (5) could score at repeat win if he breaks loose from the middle of the pack. Craigie Extra drew favorably in post eight and Craigie Mr Venus is expected to be part of the trifecta. Hardworkinwomen and Lamorge Red Fish are consistent money finishers and it is hard to leave them off the ticket.
Race eight is a peek into the stakes final. TMC’s Trail Boss is on a roll and was a determined winner last outing. Lamorge Aces Up was nipping at his heels and lost the photo for the win. Aces Up seeks revenge. Flying Regent also won his round one heat and will make his bid from the rail. Although the three are the favorites, Craigie Prime It might be the sleeper in the race.
Race ten will wrap up the first rounds featuring Flying Mancini that won by six lengths in round one. She will no doubt open the windows as the overwhelming favorite. Kiowa Ice Man could give her a run for the money. Kelsos Scotsclan could also surprise if he catches an early break.
Wednesday night’s point totals will be added to the round one tally and sixteen greyhounds will advance to Saturday’s third round. Points are distributed as follows: Win=16, 2nd = 10, 3rd = 8, 4th = 6, 5th = 3, 6th = 2, 7th = 1, 8th = 0.
Below are the races and the current point totals. BEST OF LUCK TO EVERYONE!
Round #2, Race 4, Wednesday night February 25
1-Extruder, Magic City, 8 points
2-Flyin Home Depot, McAllister, 10 points
3-Kelsos Hathaway, Raines, 1 point
4-Kiowa Muse, Filipelli & O’Donnell, 1 point
5-Deco Ellen Alone, Nova, 0 points
6-Called Dynamic, Capabal, 3 points
7-Lamorge Venus, Alderson, 2 points
8-THIS IS A SEVEN DOG FIELD
Round #2, Race 6 Wednesday night February 25
1-Lamorge Red Fish, Alderson, 10 points
2-Hardworkinwomen, La Rosa, 6 points
3-Craigie Mr Venus, Raines, 10 points
4-Jack’s Jet, Holland, 0 points
5-Julia WW Garland, Wayne Ward, 16 points
6-Born To Dream, Magic City, 8 points
7-Craigie Afresh, Abernathy, 3 points
8-Craigie Extra, Charter, 8 points
Round #2, Race 8 Wednesday night February 25
1-Flying Regent, McAllister, 16 points
2-Bow Tie Brigade, Floyd & Porter, 3 points
3-Silver Geico, Charter, 1 point
4-Craigie Prime It, D’Arcy, 2 points
5-Lamorge Aces Up, Magic City, 10 points
6-WW’s Tin Man, Wayne Ward, 6 points
7-TNJ Super Hero, Campbell, 3 points
8-TMC’s Trail Boss, Filipelli & O’Donnell, 16 points
Round #2, Race 10 Wednesday night February 25
1-BBR Flyin Easy, Rian Racing, 8 points
2-El Moonstruck, Nova, 0 points
3-Little E Nation, Floyd & Porter, 6 points
4-Craigie Londoner, D’Arcy, 2 points
5-Kiowa Ice Man, Filipelli & O’Donnell, 2 points
6-Chacha Susan, Abernathy, 1 point
7-Flying Mancini, McAllister, 16 points
8-Kelsos Scotsclan, Raines, 6 points
Tri-Super Jackpot starts at $17,590.89 Monday night
TMC’s Trail Boss continues winning spree
Saturday night kicked off the Sprint Classic series where upsets were seen. Local fans and fans attending during the March 7 evening performance have particular interest in the Sprint Classic rounds, as they will have a better than average shot at winning the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 series truck to be given away following the 34th annual Sprint Classic final on March 7.
Race recap: McAllister kennel’s Flying Regent was underestimated in race four that kicked off the first round heats. The nearly three year-old male went box to wire from the seven box. Early jamming pinched Backwood Hombre, the betting favorite, to the back of the pack. Lamorge Red Fish broke second and chased Regent around the oval to score second place points. Born To Dream closed for third, despite early trouble. Hardworkinwomen settled for fourth place followed by Bow Tie Brigade, Kiowa Ice Man, Kelsos Hathaway and Backwood Hombre. The superfecta headed by Flying Regent paid $4,712.20.
Wayne Ward’s Julia WW Garland scored the winning points over Flyin Home Depot who was unable to overtake the male in race six. BBR Flyin Easy ran a steady third followed by Kelsos Scotsclan, Craigie Afresh, Lamorge Venus, Kiowa Muse and Jack’s Jet.
There was no surprise in race eight that saw McAllister kennel capture the win with multi-distance female Flying Mancini who blasted out on top for a box to wire romp. Craigie Mr Venus finished second followed by Extruder. The two were favorites in the race. Little E Nation took fourth place points followed by TNJ Super Hero, Craigie Londoner, Silver Geico and El Moonstruck.
Filipelli & O’Donnell’s TMC’s Trail Boss continued his winning spree and scored the win points in race ten under pressure by Lamorge Aces Up. Trail Boss held by a nose to keep his win streak in tact. Craigie Extra finished a close third. WW’s Tin Man, Called Dynamic, Craigie Prime It, Chacha Susan and Deco Ellen Alone completed the field.
Below are the current point totals. Round 2 is Wednesday night where the field will be cut to sixteen.
Flying Regent 16, McAllister
Julia WW Garland 16, Wayne Ward
Flying Mancini 16, McAllister
TMC’s Trail Boss 16, Filipelli & O’Donnell
Lamorge Red Fish 10, Alderson
Flyin Home Depot 10, McAllister
Craigie Mr Venus 10, Raines
Lamorge Aces Up 10, Magic City
Born To Dream 8, Magic City
BBR Flyin Easy 8, Rian Racing
Extruder 8, Magic City
Craigie Extra 8, Campbell
Hardworkinwomen 6, Capabal
Kelsos Scotsclan 6, Raines
Little E Nation 6, Floyd & Porter
WW’s Tin Man 6, Wayne Ward
Bow Tie Brigade 3, Floyd & Porter
Craigie Afresh 3, Abernathy
TNJ Super Hero 3, Campbell
Called Dynamic 3, Capabal
Kiowa Ice Man 2, Filipelli & O’Donnell
Lamorge Venus 2, Alderson
Craigie Londoner 2, D’Arcy
Craigie Prime It 2, D’Arcy
Kelsos Hathaway 1, Raines
Kiowa Muse 1, Filipelli & O’Donnell
Silver Geico 1, Charter
Chacha Susan 1, Abernathy
Backwood Hombre 0, Campbell Greyhound
Jack’s Jet 0, Cal Holland
El Moonstruck 0, Nova
Deco Ellen Alone 0, Nova
DERBY LANE included in Fox 13 One Tank Trips "Hidden Treasures"
Fox 13's Dave Osterberg visited Derby Lane to highlight the "crown jewel" of Greyhound Racing
Click on the link to watch the show.
http://www.myfoxtampabay.com/dpp/good_day/one_tank_trip_derby_lane_021909
Saturday night February 21 begins the Sprint Classic/Truck Giveaway series
Get ready for Greyhound Racing! That’s right! For those of you that follow the Sprint Classic series you will have a better than average chance at winning the Chevrolet Silverado truck Saturday night March 7. The winner of the Sprint Classic will decide which box the winning name will be drawn from. Vera’s News once again will follow the athletes throughout the series with highlights of each round.
Kennels have entered their best athletes for the series that will begin with 32 entries. Highlighting the field is Filipelli & O’Donnell’s Matinee Idol winner TMC’s Trail Boss, who hopes to continue an impressive streak and score a first set of win points in the five-round series. The kennel’s star sprinter is also seeking 18 quiniela finishes in 21 starts and 21 consecutive trifecta finishes. Trail Boss (Lonesome Cry x TMC’s Josalynn) will face-off with NOS XXI winner Lamorge Aces Up, also a well-known speedster, who is also sired by Lonesome Cry in the tenth race.
The first rounds will be held in races 4, 6, 8 and 10 Saturday night. The fourth race features a nice evenly matched field that offers no easy winner. Kiowa Ice Man is on a roll, but the four post might not let him get out quick enough. Fall Juvenile winner Kelsos Hathaway is fine from post five where he recorded a second place finish Wednesday night. Flying Regent is expected to finish among the top three and it’s hard to leave out Backwood Hombre, who is a dual distance runner. Hardworkinwomen is unfavorably posted in the seven, but if she gets close early she will light the board. Lamorge Red Fish is another in the field who has the ability to upset. The stars need to align right for Born To Dream to pull of the win. He has not had much luck breaking from the rail pole, which he drew for a third consecutive time. Bow Tie Brigade’s slow breaking style will leave him behind if he is not sharp early.
Julia WW Garland, a top grade surprise imported from Mobile, has done well since his debut. He drew the coveted rail post against Lamorge Venus in race six that won the Feb. 14 Sweetheart Challenge and should be the betting favorite in this field. The quick-footed Jack’s Jet could get the jump on the field for the early points. Flyin Home Depot is always a threat. Craigie A fresh recently returned to racing from a September layoff could be fresh and ready for the grueling series. Kiowa Muse reeled off three in a row last month, but has fallen short his last two outings. BBR Flyin Easy needs the front early, but with Jack’s Jet next to her, Flyin Easy might not make the front. Kelsos Scotsclan, litterbrother to Hathaway, should finish among the superfecta.
Track sweetheart Flying Mancini has moved back to the shorter run after a second place finish in the Matinee Idol, respectively. Mancini is one of the few entries that possess multi-distance talents. She holds the season’s best time over the 660-yard course and holds one of five fastest 550-yard times this season. Mancini competes against last year’s Gold Trophy winner Craigie Mr Venus and the late closer Little E Nation. With no disrespect to the other seven in the field, this one should be Mancini all the way in race eight. El Moonstruck and Craigie Londoner might be outclassed against the solid top grade contenders. They will pay handsome if they upset. Extruder drew unfavorably in the five box against the favorites. Silver Geico is also a longshot against Mancini as well as TNJ Super Hero.
TMC’s Trail Boss and Lamorge Aces Up will be the betting quiniela in the tenth race that concludes the first round of the series. The fleet-footed Deco Ellen Alone might not like the seven post, but she could challenge if she breaks on top. Chacha Susan could surprise from the rail post. She hasn’t drawn inside in eight starts and the last time she wore the red blanket, she went box to wire. WW’s Tin Man moved back to the top grade after an impressive five-length victory Wednesday. He might have a tough time against the strong front runners. Craigie Prime It has the least career starts (15) in the series. The youngster has held his own and will be a late threat. Called Dynamic will need his sire’s (Elway Drive) to carry him to a longshot win in this field. Craigie Extra will also need some racing room early to light the board.
Greyhounds will collect points on February 21 and again on February 25. The top sixteen will advance afterwards to two semifinal rounds on Feb. 28 and March 4. Top eight will compete in the stakes final on March 7.
Other news:
In the battle of the kennel standings Filipelli & O’Donnell kennel has nudged out the top McAllister kennel for the first time this season taking a three win lead heading into the weekend. Wayne Ward is also improving in third place followed by Magic City and Campbell Greyhound racing to complete the top five.
Win a Chevrolet Silverado on March 7 during the $85,000 Sprint Classic evening
Round one of Sprint Classic is Saturday night February 21!
Our next big giveaway is March 7th. Those following the Sprint Classic series will have a better chance at winning the truck based on the outcome of the race. The first round begins this Saturday night February 21 where our finest greyhounds will compete over the 550-yard course. Round two is Wed. Feb. 25 where the field will be sliced to 16. Two more rounds on Feb. 28 and March 4 will produce the top eight point getters that will vie for the winning purse in the 34th annual stakes to be held March 7.
Twin Trifecta jackpot forced out EVERY WEDNESDAY NIGHT
Don’t forget that every Wednesday night the Twin Trifecta, played in races 11 & 13, forces out the jackpot no matter what the amount.
Wednesday matinee greyhound notes
Race 2: Kiowa Twostepper and Castle Dermot make their maiden debuts. Twostepper is a littermate to Kiowa Stantheman and Kiowa Fourtappin who are making their way up the graded ladder. Castle Dermot and his littermates will begin appearing in races.
Race 4: Craigie Somewish was a major stickout in his three required schoolers. He will be the betting favorite in his maiden debut.
Race 6: Lamorge Venus who won last week’s Sweetheart Challenge, is back before round one of the Sprint Classic. She is posted well on the rail against Craigie Prime It and Deco Alamo Rojo. TMC’s Mightyfine could upset, as he is fresh from a four-week rest.
Race 8: KB’s Reliance returns after three months off and could power her way to victory in her return run. Flying Ingraham and WW’s Toto just dropped from the top grade.
Race 10: Julia WW Garland is back in the sprints as he prepares for Saturday’s Sprint Classic. Garland is also being considered for the upcoming Distance Classic. Hardworkinwomen and Jack’s Jet should not be discounted.
Wednesday night
Race 3: Ikuko and Kentucky Jake are two fine looking maidens making their debut. Killerintheson, who lost by a nose last time out, could make the pups wait until their next start to capture a win.
Race 6: Fall Juvenile winner Kelsos Hathaway is seeking a repeat win before entering the Sprint Classic. His bookend brother Kelsos Scotsclan could also be an entry into the stakes.
Race 8: The distance greyhounds will compete in their stakes beginning next month and tonight’s field is expected to lineup for that race. In her past five starts Exceeded Dream has won three distance races. Hi Noon Hypnotic has lit the board in her last 10 starts. TMC’s Remedy is also a formidable distance runner whose brother, TMC’s Trail Boss, is among the favorites for the Sprint Classic.
Race 10: Craigie Mr Venus is another fine sprinter that won last year’s Gold Trophy stakes. He too will be among the Raines entries for Saturday’s first round of the stakes. Mr Venus was the runner-up in last Saturday’s Rotary Governor’s Feature.
Race 11: This race is a preview of the upcoming sprint stakes. Last week’s Rotary Governor’s Feature race winner Dewey Millions is seeking a back to back win against a strong field of veteran sprinters. Dewey, who will compete in his 13th official start, boasts 9 quinielas. Dewey will be tested to see if he is ready for the “big dogs” as the win leader Reward Trent drew his favorite rail post. Trent is expected to be the betting favorite. Flying Brando who was the runner-up in the Sweetheart Challenge drew outside again for a sixth consecutive time. Little E Nation recently reeled off three in a row and could upset the field. Jack’s Thunder was a recent finalist in the Matinee Idol. She would prefer to be posted on the inside instead of in the six box.
Lamorge Venus wins battle of the sexes Sweetheart Challenge race and eyes upcoming Sprint Classic
It was a victorious Valentine's Day for Alderson Trainer Myke Stewart who won two stakes races. First, her phenomenal new pup, Dewey Millions, captured the Rotary Govenor's race in the matinee. At 
night, Myke's speedy Lamorge Venus was the winner in the Sweetheart Challenge that pitted four females and four males in the 550-yard Valentine's feature. Photo right: Derby Lane Vice President Richard Winning presents Myke with the trophy. Leadout is Robert Flenorl who, by the way, has led out the winners of the last three stakes races.
In 2004, Derby Lane held a sweetheart challenge race that was won by the late, great Cayman Went for the males. Now, five years later the girls prevail. Lamorge Venus quickly took control and was not about to give up the race. She outbroke Flying Brando (male) who was seeking the hat trick from the outside.
Lamorge Venus won impressively and will be one of Alderson kennel's entries in the $85,000 Sprint Classic that begins Saturday night February 21. Fans following the five round event will have a better than average shot at winning a Chevrolet Silverado 1500 during the March 7 stakes night. Fans will put their entry in the box number that matches the number of the greyhound they feel will win the race. Once the race is declared official, a name will be drawn. See rules on left.
Dewey Millions wins Rotary Govenor's Feature on Valentine's Day
Alderson kennel's hottest new pup Dewey Millions went box to wire to capture the sixth race feature during the Saturday matinee event. Rotarians from three districts came together to help raise money for The S4TL symposium that is held each June for high school student leaders at Florida Southern College and provides $1,000 scholarships to the returning Student Assistants. Congratulations to trainer Myke Stewart of the Alderson kennel for Dewey Million's victory in the race.
AND, it was a sweet ending to Valentine's Day Saturday night when Myke's runner Lamorge Venus won the Sweetheart Challenge.
Weekend Update-Happy Valentine’s Day
Admission and General parking FREE EVERYDAY
Win cash during the first 5 races with our 5’s on Friday’s
Saturday Matinee-5th annual Rotary Goes To The Dogs
Rotary Governor’s Feature is race 6
Win a Diamond Heart Necklace Saturday night
Sweetheart Challenge is race 6-males vs. females
Every Friday in February fans will have a shot at winning cash during the first five races. 5’s on Friday’s is back. Gates open at 6:30 PM, first post is 7:30 PM. 5’s on Friday’s pays 5 winners cash depending on where the #5 greyhound finishes during the first 5 races! High payout is $300 per race for a first with tiered amounts from first through fourth and a consolation payout of $50.00 per race. 5 winners, 5 races, 5’s on Friday’s is back! Must be 18 years of age or older and present to win cash.
Rotary “Goes to the Dogs”
Saturday matinee Derby Lane will welcome hundreds of Rotary International members to the matinee. The group will experience the thrill of greyhound racing while raising money for Students for Tomorrow's Leaders. The S4TL symposium is held each June for high school student leaders at Florida Southern College and provides $1,000 scholarships to the returning Student Assistants. Rotarians from three districts will be among the afternoon fans. Race 6 will be the Rotary Governor’s Feature. Dewey Millons, one of the hottest pups of this season will take on last year’s Gold Trophy Juvenile champ Craigie Mr Venus for the title.
Enter to win a Diamond Necklace Saturday night
Fans attending the races Saturday night will have a shot at winning a diamond heart necklace in a drawing after the Sweetheart Challenge in race 6 Saturday night. The race features a battle of the sexes when four females and four males seek the title of track sweetheart. Representing the females is Jack’s Jet (1), a favorite in post one. The males have the inside covered with Kelsos Egomaniac (2) and WW’s Tin Man (3). Covering the outside is Dublin Allstar (6) and Flying Brando (8), who seeks three in a row. The males appear to have stacked the deck, but the fleet-footed Deco Ellen Alone (5) could rocket to the front for a female upset. Lamorge Venus (6) turned in an impressive race on Wednesday and could also give the males a run for their money as well as Onx Walker (7), who is also a fast breaker that could find an opening to run.
TMC’s Trail Boss “is boss” over the 550-yard course
Wednesday night TMC’s Trail Boss continued his winning spree and collected four in a row and his 19th consecutive trifecta finish of which, 16 have been quiniela payouts. Boss boasts a perfect money finish this year and is a leading favorite for the upcoming Sprint Classic that begins February 21. Trail Boss is the son of Derby Lane’s 2003 top dog Lonesome Cry and TMC’s Josalyn. Owned by Eddie Mc Donald of TX, the Filipelli & O’Donnell speedster was a determined winner Wednesday when he broke second and held off the continuous pressure by Lamorge Venus to win the race.
While Trail Boss continued his winning spree; Flying Mancini’s streak was halted at three straight by Exceeded Dream who went box to wire over the 660-yard course. It was quite a race for Exceeded Dream, who is among the first group of pups sired by Derby Lane’s 2006 Flashy Sir and All-American Extruding Dream. The pup looked much like her father who is the only greyhound in Derby Lane history to set track records over both 550 and 660-yards in the same season. Mancini, who is a celebrated tri-distance star, is a favorite in both the Sprint Classic and the Distance Classic.
Congratulations Stump-Best in Show at Westminster Dog Show
It was a wonderful evening for seniors everywhere who celebrated the victory of STUMP the 10-year-old Sussex Spaniel who was the first of his breed to win a best in show title, and the oldest dog to capture the title, too! What a story! The champion nearly died of an unknown disease and then comes out of retirement! Stump, who would be 70 in people years, showed the youngsters what grace and class are all about.
Greyhounds across the nation and right here in Tampa Bay are rejoicing at the news. Nancy Bataille who runs the GPA Senior Sanctuary for older greyhounds in our area invites anyone interested in adopting a senior greyhound to visit the site at www.gpaseniorsanctuary.org Older pets can also bring love and joy into a home and Stump’s victory proves just that! Congratulations STUMP, for bringing seniors to the head of the class!
Down Under…Miss Elly Mint is making news
Australian greyhound racing has its own sweetheart and her name is Miss Elly Mint. The beautiful blue and white lady sprinted into Australian record books recently at Wentworth Park collecting 16 in a row. She is owned by Ray Watson and is setting her sights on The Easter Egg stakes-the second-richest greyhound race in Australia. Miss Elly was named The Gardens Greyhound of the Year for 2008 and is one of three finalists seeking the title of Greyhound of the Year. Best of luck Miss Elly!
Don’t forget this is a “winning weekend” at Derby Lane with 5’s on Friday’s and Diamond Necklace giveaway Saturday.
Join us for a winning weekend
Friday February 13, 5’s on Friday’s Cash Giveaway
Saturday February 14, Diamond Necklace Giveaway
Flying Mancini continues winning spree as she seeks national awards
Last Friday night fans cheered for the #5 greyhound during the first five races and won a total of $750.00 in the 5’s on Friday’s promotion. The 5’s on Friday’s cash giveaway will be held every Friday in February. 5 winners will win cash in the first 5 races based on the finish of the #5 greyhound. Cash is given every race. If the greyhound wins a fan will win $300.00. If a greyhound races last, we pay a $50.00 consolation.
Flying Mancini continues to impress, as the female posted her 12th win in 14 starts. The multi-stakes winner and dual distance track record holder is among the North American Greyhounds on the ballot for national awards. Mancini is seeking an All American title as well as the Flashy Sir award, for best distance runner and a Rural Rube award for top sprinter. The female is favored for the longer distance award. The voting for the Rural Rube and Flashy Sir are being tallied this month as NGA members must send their ballots in by March 1. Several of Derby Lane's stakes winners from last year are also on the list for All America consideration including Red Dirt Road.
Valentine's Day offers lots of bling!
Valentine’s Day at Derby Lane offers many ways to enjoy the night. The Sweetheart Poker tournament and Hearts of Fire event will give poker players several options to win cash and jewelry. Parimutuel players can enjoy a great dinner in the Derby Club restaurant and enter to win a Diamond Heart Necklace while waiting for the Sweetheart Challenge in race 8. Four males vs. four females for the trophy.
Sprint Classic begins February 21
Our best 550-yard athletes will begin the five round series for the winning purse. The stakes race final is March 7. Those following the series will be in the know and have a better than average chance to win a big ticket item. Details T/B/A soon!
5’s on Friday's is BACK!
Join us Friday night's in February for 5 chances to win cash. Five (5) fans will win cash during the first 5 races. Cheer for the #5 Greyhound, as he/she will determine the amount of cash given. After each of the first 5 races is declared official, a name will be drawn for the cash. The cash amount is based on the finish of the #5 Greyhound.
The 5's on Friday's cash payout amount will be based on the finish of the #5 Greyhound according to the following structure.
Win = $300
2nd = $200
3rd = $100
4th = $100
5th thru 8th = $50-Must be present to win and 18 years of age or older.
TMC's Trail Boss and Flying Mancini continue streaks
TMC’s Trail Boss and Flying Mancini continued their winning ways and money finishes Wednesday night. TMC’s Trail Boss won the Matinee Idol on Jan. 24 and added a third consecutive win on Feb. 4. The victory was his 18th consecutive money finish-of which 15 were in the quiniela. Eddie Mc Donald of TX owns the brindle son of Lonesome Cry x TMC’s Josalynn that races for the Filipelli & O’Donnell kennel. Trail Boss is prepping for the upcoming Sprint Classic that begins in two weeks.
While Trail Boss was continuing his streak; Flying Mancini was excelling at her favorite distance. The multi-distance female scored two in a row and her 20th money finish of her 21 starts. Mancini won from the 660-yard where she holds the season’s fastest time of 36.96. Owned by Vince Berland of KS, the daughter of Kiowa Sweet Trey x Gable Acadia races with the McAllister kennel. Mancini, who closed out the year with a victory in the 660-yard Challenge and opened the New Year by winning the Inaugural (550-yard), is expected to return to the shorter run for the upcoming Sprint Classic as well.
A race to replay again!
Mobile import Julia WW Garland upset the betting favorite Flyin Home Depot Wednesday night in race 11. The 71-pound male, trained by John Graham, was a perfect money finisher at Mobile with 8 of 12 wins. He gave a memorable performance in his third trip around the Derby oval. He had no time adjusting to the track differences by winning his first start. Garland is fierce and his race proved he has grace, speed and the heart of a champ. His victory is sure to be played over and over from the replays archive. Garland was crowded early and had no racing room. He appeared to fall back in the far turn and then pour it on in the homestretch splitting greyhounds for the win. He beat Flyin Home Depot, Dublin All Star and TNJ Super Hero-three solid top grade runners. Ward kennel has other Mobile imports in various races. The kennel is full of young talent that is developing into major players. Watch this kennel that is on the move.
Twin Trifecta forced out every Wed. Night-Played in races 11 & 13
TMC’s Trail Boss seeks Hat Trick Wed. Night Feb. 4
Matinee Idol winner TMC’s Trail Boss is poised for three in a row in race six Wednesday night. Out of Trail Boss’ last 17 money finishes 14 were quiniela payoffs. The quick-footed male (3) should jump to the lead against his slower foes on the inside. Boss should also beat TK Rapala (4), who usually heads to the outside, giving Trail Boss early control. Trail Boss is 37 out of 44 starts in the superfecta this meet and is the early favorite to win race 6.
Wednesday matinee notes
Race 1: Kiowa Shagger should make it two in a row as the young pup courses the sprint oval for a sixth career start.
Race 2: Bonafide Top Dog is a fast breaking pup who was caught at the wire in all three of his schooling races. He would hold on today if practice makes perfect in his maiden debut.
Race 4: BBR Coulda Win might just win his maiden debut. He won his last two schoolers from outside posts and drew the eight in this field.
Race 6: Flying Swindler was closing strong in his last start that saw him come from seventh to third. He could come back with a vengeance. Lamorge Harriet who returned after two months off, could be rested and ready for a win.
Race 9: TMC’s Kaboom shot to the front of the field in her maiden win last week. Today, she seeks two in a row in her third official start.
Race 10: Top dog Reward Trent goes for his 23rd win of the meet. The speedster will need to get out quickly from a favored inside box. Backwood Terri, in post one, has won half of her last six starts and will be a strong threat. Flying Brando should also be a betting favorite.
Wednesday night notes
Race 3: Far Site Quicker makes his maiden debut after winning two of his three schoolers. Silver Solution also schooled impressively and the pair could be the third race quiniela.
Race 4: Jack’s Thunder could storm this grade B field. He dropped his last start, but should not linger long. RG’s Tuscany won his last race after a three month rest and seeks two in a row.
Race 6: TMC’s Trail Boss faces off with Lamorge Red Fish, who predicted a Steeler outcome in the Super Game, and TK Rapala are expected to be part of the superfecta finish.
Race 8: This field offers a peek into the Distance Classic stakes that will begin next month. Flying Mancini, who holds the fastest distance time this meet, is looking for two in a row against Dream Deliverer who seeks the hat trick. TMC’s Remedy, litterbrother to Trail Boss, hopes he can get out quickly against his top grade rivals. Backwood Cash could make it two in a row after his six-length victory last week. The veteran Greys Blak Smith, who is two or more years older than the field, could surprise.
Race 11: This is a noteworthy top grade feature. Julia WW Garland, an import from Mobile, makes his third appearance over the 550-yard course. The male won his debut race and pressured the winner by a half-length last start. He will face-off with solid top grade runners TMJ Super Hero, Dublin All Star and Flyin Home Depot. Rosey Rookie hopes to score the win before he heads to Naples for the upcoming distance stakes. Best of luck to Rosey!
Dewey Millions, a prominent pup who is 7 of 9 in the quiniela, could upset in the first half of the Twin Trifecta against the top grade athletes.
Congratulations to the Pittsburg Steelers, Super Bow XLIII CHAMPS
5's on Friday's returns this week!
5 fans will win cash during the first 5 races every Friday night in February based on the finish of the #5 greyhound. 5's on Friday's is back.
Join us this Friday night and every Friday in February for a chance to take home a few extra bucks. 5's on Friday's is held during the first 5 races of the evening. Fans 18 years or older will enter their name for the cash drawing. The amount of cash distributed is based on where the #5 finishes in the race.
The 5's on Friday's cash payout amount will be based on the finish of the #5 Greyhound according to the following structure.
Win = $300
2nd = $200
3rd = $100
4th = $100
5th thru 8th = $50-Must be present to win!
Make your Valentine's Day dinner reservations today. Early arrivals on track will receive a box of chocolates (while supplies last). Enter to win a diamond necklace. Must be 18 years of age and present to win necklace.
Join us for a Super Weekend
Welcome football fans!
Derby Dogs predict Steelers win on Sunday
The Stones play live Fri. & Sat. beginning at 7:00 PM
Thursday night Derby Lane gave away a pair of tickets to the big game based on the outcome of Race 8. The odd numbers starting with the RED number one represented the Cardinals. The even numbers with the eight blanket best matching the Steelers faced-off for the win. Fans put their entry forms in their team box. Alderson kennel's Lamorge Red Fish(8) swam to victory for the Steelers. The Cardinal entries were retired and Ron Weber from Pinellas Park won the tickets after his name was drawn from the Steeler box. We wish the best of luck to the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Arizona Cardinals in Sunday’s Big Game!
Visit us this weekend for fast and furious entertainment. Friday the simulcast gates open 11:30 for Thoroughbred, Harness, Jai Alai and other FL Greyhound races. Poker Games played 2:00 PM until 2:00 AM Friday & Saturday night Live action greyhound races Post Time 7:30 PM. Saturday matinee live action begins at 12:30 PM.
Enjoy a bountiful buffet in our Derby Club featuring our signature Prime Rib Fri. & Sat. Night. Restaurant open 6:30 PM. Saturday matinee offers a brunch beginning at 11:30 AM. America’s best four-legged athletes, world-class simulcasts, poker games and great dining await those that visit beautiful and historic Derby Lane.
DERBY LANE'S GOT GAME! WIN TICKETS TO THE SUPER GAME TONIGHT!
Thursday night Jan. 29, we're giving away SUPER TICKETS to the big game. Join us for our TAIL GATIE on the TARMAC, weather permitting, and enjoy $2.00 Drafts and other food and drink specials. Gates open 6:30 PM. Entry forms given out until 8:45PM. ALL ENTRIES must be in by 9:00 PM. The drawing for the tickets will be held after Race 8.
Who will win Sunday's big bowl? Our Derby Dogs will predict the winner tonight in RACE 8. The odd number greyhounds 1,3,5,7 will represent the Arizona Cardinals. The even greyhounds will represent the Pittsburgh Steelers. Who will cross first? Find out Thursday night!
Representing the Cardinals from the rail out is #1 TNJ Super Hero who was just a head away from victory last start. He will be a favorite in the field. #3 Starz Equalpower could overpower the field if he breaks close to the field. #5 WKL Shockwave is a trifecta finisher and could keep the Steeler hounds at bay. #7 Jack's Thunder, a favorite in the race, jumped to the lead the last time she drew the seven box. She could win for the Cardinals.
The Steelers will be represented by the even numbers 2,4,6,8. Lamorge Red Fish #8 whose colors closely resemble the black and yellow colors of the Steelers, is the program favorite. She could swim to victory from the eight. Her teammate Flying Swindler #6 was close last start. He will look for the inside and if he gets it, he could upset the Cardinal's. Hallo Cool Cobra could slither his way to a win. The fleet-footed male should score early, but might need late help from his teammates. Greta's Shanghi will have her work cut out for her in this field. She needs to be out on top with backup from her teammates to get her across the finish line. Best of luck to all of our entries.
Tri Super Jackpot starts over $49,000 for Wednesday Matinee
Tri Super is played in races 5 & 7
Twin Trifecta Jackpot forced out
EVERY WEDNESDAY NIGHT!
Twin Tri Jackpot for Wed. Matinee over $6,000
Derby Lane’s Got Game!
Win Super Tickets to Sunday’s BIG GAME in Tampa Bay at Derby Lane Thursday night January 29. Pari-mutuel or Poker? You choose how to enter! Both offer fans a chance to walk away with a pair of tickets to the big game. Poker Players can win a pair of tickets by having the high hand in game play. Details available in Poker Room.
Racing Fans will have their shot at tickets by entering their name for the ticket drawing held after Race 8. Winner will have 10 minutes to claim tickets. Drawings continue until tickets are claimed. Must be 18 years of age and present to win.
Tail Gate food and drink specials include $2.00 Draft Beer. Cheeseburger, Hot Dog, or Hamburger meal $2.95, include fries and a soda. Gates open 6:30 PM Thursday night. Post time is 7:30 PM, EST. The Super Ticket drawing will be held after race 8. Wear your favorite Team attire and show your team spirit.
Breaking News-Saturday Matinee
TMC's Trail Boss paves way for Idol win
Tri-Super Carryover for Saturday Night $40,350.00 the Tri-Super is played in races 5 and 7
Filipelli & O'Donnell's TMC's Trail Boss (Lonesome Cry x TMC's Josalynn) was the winner in the 25th annual Matinee Idol Saturday afternoon. Trail Boss broke on top from post four and held off the betting favorite Flying Mancini at the wire. Trail Boss is owned by Eddie Mc Donald of TX who watched his athlete by remote location. Congratulations to TMC's Trail Boss. Photo L to R: WDUV Radio's Stan "the man" Prinston, John Filipelli (Kennel owner/trainer) and leadout Robert Flenori.
Complete order of finish was: TMC's Trail Boss, Flying Mancini, TK Rapala, Kelsos Hathaway, WW Time Wise, M's Westpoint, Reward Trent, and Jack's Thunder.
Weekend news updated January 23, 2009
Superfly plays live Friday & Saturday beginning at 7:00 PM
25th Matinee Idol Saturday afternoon
Flying Mancini & Reward Trent face-off again Sat. Matinee
The stars will shine brighter Saturday afternoon when the elite eight that earned their posts after Wednesday’s qualifiers line up for a shot at the afternoon stakes title. The 25th annual feature will be held in race six and WDUV Radio’s Stan “the man” Prinston will award the trophy to the winning kennel.
Fans watched Flying Mancini’s streak halted at nine straight by Reward Trent in Wednesday’s heats. The female is expected to return with a vengeance in the final and give the McAllister kennel a back-to-back Idol victory. Last year Flying Stanley won the stakes for the kennel. Although Mancini is the leading favorite, one can not overlook Reward Trent’s blazing speed. Trent (3) drew on the inside of Mancini (5). Reward Trent would need a Wednesday repeat to give Magic City their first Matinee Idol victory.
Raines kennel’s Kelsos Hathaway is looking for a second stakes. The 76-pound male won the Fall Juvenile last November. He is always a strong late threat. A win by him would also be a first for the Raines kennel. Father and son will battle it out when M’s Westpoint, trained by Cal Holland, Jr. with Floyd & Porter kennel and Jack’s Thunder, trained by Cal’s son Justin Holland, go “paw to paw”. Thunder drew the 6 and Westpoint is in the 7. Justin trains for the Cal Holland kennel, owned by grandfather Cal Holland, Sr., that won the 2005 stakes with Rambition. Before Floyd partnered with Porter they captured the 1991 Matinee Idol with SM Florida Gal.
TMC’s Trail Boss, arguably the fastest sprinter to the turn, will have his work cut out for him. The male reeled off four in a row last month. He has 15 consecutive money finishes heading into the stakes. A victory would be a first for the Filipelli & O’Donnell kennel, but not a first for trainer John Filipelli who captured the 2000 title with All American JB Junior B of the Ryan Farms kennel.
La Rosa Enterprises is looking for their first Idol win and TK Rapala could be the entry to do just that. The underestimated male won his last two starts. Rapala made it all the way to semifinals of the Fall Sprint and the Fall Juvenile. Three could be a charm for the male who would have preferred an outside box to break from. If Rapala takes off first there would be a slim chance of catching him.
Last, but certainly not least, is Wayne Ward’s WW Time Wise. The male will pay handsomely if he scores the win. Time Wise wins his races in come from behind fashion-a task not easily accomplished against such formidable rivals. The Matinee Idol is scheduled to run at approximately 1:58 PM, EST.
Weekend notes:
Friday Night
Race 6: Little E Nation should make his fans happy and score a repeat win. Chacha Susan and Flying Eagle are his top grade threats.
Race 8: Kelsos Scotsclan is making his 660-yard distance debut. While his brother Kelsos Hathaway eyes the prize in Saturday’s Matinee Idol, Scotsclan will test his endurance over the longer oval. Both males have late speed tendencies.
Race 10: Kiowa Ice Man just missed the win his last outing and is expected to rally for the win. His strongest threat will come from the dual distance Flying Macbeth who finished close despite trouble last start.
Saturday Matinee
Race 6: MATINEE IDOL STAKE FINAL
Race 10: Born To Dream is going for three in a row over the 550-yard course. The top grade athlete was a finalist in the opening Inaugural stakes this year.
Race 12: Another top grade race in the matinee features Backwood Teri who has been the betting favorite four of her last six starts. The program selections have WW’s North Pole, a longshot, freezing her out of the victory.
Saturday Night
Race 3: Don Jensen makes his maiden debut after winning back-to-back schoolers. The male is among the first litter of pups sired by Derby Lane’s All-American Joe Hearns. BD’s Babushka is the mother. Best of luck to Joe’s pups.
Race 4: Dewey Millions is seeking the hat trick to move to the top grade. The young pup is five of 7 in the quiniela for the Alderson kennel.
Race 6: NOS XXI winner Lamorges Aces Up hopes to begin another streak. Last week his winning spree was snapped at three in a row. He is posted in the eight box and should be the wagering favorite.
Race 8: The distance dual in this field will be between Backwood Cash and Exceeded Dream. The two are solid, but might get opposition from the fresh Game Spirit who returns after a two-month absence.
Race 10: Backwood Country has been installed as the early favorite in this field that could see Kiowa Logans Run rush to the lead and hold on for the win. Flying Brando should not be discounted.
Race 12: Julia WW Garland just shipped from Mobile with impressive stats. He won 8 of 12 races and appears to be a fine looking pup. It may take him a few starts to get used to the new oval.
Other News:
The first leg of the Palm Beach Big 3 stake race is Saturday NIGHT January 24. We wish local owners Victori Hounds the best of luck with their finalist Sakkara Ragtop. Approximate post time for the Palm Beach feature is 10:00 PM, EST. Fans can watch and wager on Palm Beach at Derby Lane.
Below are the post positions for the 25th annual Matinee Idol Stakes
Race 6 Saturday MATINEE January 24
1-TK Rapala, La Rosa
2-Kelsos Hathaway, Raines
3-Reward Trent, Magic City
4-TMC’s Trail Boss, Filipelli & O’Donnell
5-Flying Mancini, McAllister
6-Jack’s Thunder, Cal Holland
7-M’s Westpoint, Floyd & Porter
8-WW Time Wise, Wayne Ward
Reward Trent halts Mancini’s streak
Wednesday matinee (Jan. 21) fans watched the sweet sixteen semifinalists become the elite eight who will compete in the 25th annual Matinee Idol stakes this Saturday afternoon Jan. 24. The first heat saw TNJ Little Linda put her nose out front first. TK Rapala and TMC’s Trail Boss were quickly next to her. Forest Blarney (7) was nearly knocked down at the break when Deco Ellen Alone (8) headed for the rail. TMC’s Trail Boss (2) and TK Rapala (5) quickly gained on Linda. Rapala took the lead in the first turn and pulled away from the field to win by six at the wire. Rapala paid $12.60 for his win over the bet favorite TMC’s Trail Boss who finished second. Kelsos Hathaway thrilled fans with his come from behind finish from seventh to third followed by WW Time Wise who also made a late move to fill the fourth slot for the final. TNJ Little Linda, Deco Ellen Alone, Lamorge General and Forest Blarney completed the field.
Race ten Wednesday matinee saw fans make Flying Mancini the bet favorite again, as the female was poised for a tenth consecutive victory. Flying Mancini’s powerful strides were not enough to win the battle of the sexes against Magic City’s illustrious speedster Reward Trent. The male, who is the current win leader, went box to wire. Flying Mancini broke second and was just a length behind Trent. Fans expected Mancini to pour it on and pass the male, but Trent’s speed was more than Mancini bargained for and she was unable to overtake the male. Reward Trent kept this lead throughout. For the record, Reward Trent's father Trent Lee holds the track record over the sprint course.
Reward Trent paid $19.60 to win. Mancini finished second followed by M’s Westpoint and Jack’s Thunder who filled the final slot. Backwood Hombre, Law’s Crusader, Sol Deli and Craigie Winston completed the field. The posts for the Saturday afternoon race will be drawn Thursday night.
Here are the eight finalists. They are not in post position order
Reward Trent, Magic City kennel
Flying Mancini, McAllister
Kelsos Hathaway, Raines
TK Rapala, La Rosa Enterprises
TMC’s Trail Boss, Filipelli & O’Donnell
M’s Westpoint, Floyd & Porter
Jack’s Thunder, Cal Holland
WW Time Wise, Wayne Ward
Matinee Idol Qualifiers Wednesday Jan. 21
Flying Mancini seeks 10 straight and 3rd stakes title
Wednesday matinee greyhounds will line up for a shot at qualifying for the 25th annual Matinee Idol stakes. The stakes race was formed to entertain our afternoon crowds and give them an opportunity to see the greyhound stars that usually shine at night. Sixteen greyhounds will head to post in races 6 and 10 Wednesday January 21. Among the select group is Fall Juvenile winner Kelsos Hathaway and the season win leader Reward Trent. The leading favorite is the dual distance Flying Mancini who is seeking ten in a row.
The fleet-footed TMC’s Trail Boss who is looking for a fifth win in seven starts is the program favorite from post two. Fall Juvenile winner Kelsos Hathaway is seeking a second stakes title and is expected to advance. TK Rapala, who prefers to break from the outside, has drawn the five post and could encounter trouble as he makes his way to the outside. D’Arcy kennel’s Forest Blarney won two of his last three starts and will pay a handsome price if he upsets. WW Time Wise has five trifecta finishes out of his last six starts and could be among the top four. TNJ Little Linda reeled off two in a row before being halted last week. She is favorably posted in the three box that saw her win by four lengths the last time she drew it. Lamorge General and Deco Ellen Alone will need to be out in front early for a shot at advancement.
The 10th race features Flying Mancini in post eight and Reward Trent in the seven post. Backwood Hombre, who also courses both sprint and distance ovals, drew the coveted rail post. Hombre went box to wire on Jan. 5 from the same box. Law’s Crusader would have preferred to be on the outside, but has upset before. Jack’s Thunder who is a quick starter could get a jump on the field. Thunder has been a solid money finisher of late, and is expected to move to the final.
Sol Deli might not be the betting favorite but the seasoned veteran could get a piece of the qualifier and a shot at the title. Deli has competed in several stakes and was the runner-up in the T. L. Weaver stakes in 2007. She was also A Million-Dollar Consolation finalist that year too. Deli was a repeat finalist in the 2008 Weaver stakes and she was also featured in a NOS race. M’s Westpoint will look for the rail early and won’t have too far to go from post two. Craigie Winston who has lit the board five of his last six outings could be a stretch threat.
The top four finishers from races 6 and 10 Wednesday matinee will advance to the Matinee Idol final Saturday AFTERNOON January 24. Best of luck to everyone!
News for Monday January 19, 2009
Mancini makes it nine
Flying Mancini continued her winning ways by collecting nine in a row Saturday night (Jan. 17) for the top McAllister kennel. The female is following the same path that her award-winning father carved in 2002. Kiowa Sweet Trey invaded Derby Lane with a vengeance. The male won eleven in a row and conquered his rivals to take the Inaugural title and the All-Star Kennel Preview trophy. Trey also finished a respectable third in the Sprint Classic. His daughter Flying Mancini, is poised to tie and surpass his accomplishments.
Flying Mancini (Kiowa Sweet Trey x Gable Acadia) is the second offspring of Trey to win an Inaugural at Derby Lane. She will also enter the Matinee Idol this Wednesday afternoon (Jan. 21) to vie for a slot in the January 24 final. The triple distance female is arguably the best racing female in North America.
Other news:
BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND! The Derby Club buffet is back. The restaurant will be closed Monday Jan. 19 and Tuesday Jan. 20 and reopen with the brunch buffet Wednesday the 21st. Reservations suggested and group dining is available by contacting reservations at 727-812-3339.
ARE YOU READY FOR THE BIG GAME? We’re giving away 2 tickets to the BIG BOWL Thursday Night January 29th. Free Admission. Must be 18 years of age to enter and present to win with proper identification.
Weekend News for January 16, 2009
Let’s Make Some Noiz!
Join us Friday (Jan. 16) & Saturday night (Jan. 17) for the live sounds of Noiz. Live music begins at 7:00 PM Fri. & Sat. Bundle up and enjoy the outdoor music and live action greyhound racing.
Tri Super Jackpot over $22,000 for Friday Night
The Tri Super is played in races 5 & 7
TMC’s Trail Boss favorite in race 12 Friday
Reward Trent is Saturday matinee favorite
Flying Mancini goes for nine in a row Saturday night
This year’s leading lady of greyhound racing is Flying Mancini. Undefeated in the New Year and seeking nine in a row, the McAllister female highlights race 8 Saturday night. Among her foes is TMC’s Remedy, who ran third to Mancini in last month’s Distance Challenge. Mancini also faces the fleet-footed Cynthia Smoot seeking a repeat win. After Saturday’s race, Flying Mancini will move to the shorter run for Wednesday matinee’s (Jan. 21) qualifying rounds for the Matinee Idol. The 25th running of the annual Idol stakes is Saturday Matinee January 24 over the 550-yard course.
Weekend notes:
Friday night
Race 5: Kiowa Fourtappin is a pup on the watch list. Sired by Flying Stanley, the male and his littermates made a strong first impression. The Filipelli & O’Donnell group is expected to make their way up the graded ladder quickly. Fourtapping is seeking two in a row.
Race 6: Kaias Sequoyah, a veteran favorite, is still competing in the top grade. Friday night will be his 141st start. Backwood Hombre will be Sequoyah’s strongest threat.
Race 8: Pam Ford could go all the way from post one. She is the daughter of Touche Baby- 2006 North America top brood.
Race 10: Another racing veteran is Legends Field who is eyeing a fifth birthday this April. The top grade champion makes his 211th start in this race. Legends Field was also whelped from Touche Baby. The old master will compete against last year’s Gold Trophy Juvenile champ Craigie Mr Venus.
Race 12: TMC’s Trail Boss, who has won eight of his last 11 races, will be the favorite in this field. He is arguably, the fastest from the box to the turn. DD’s Alpinias is looking for three in a row and could make the race a battle of the sexes.
Saturday matinee
Race 6: Kiowa Ice Man and WW’s Fox Hunter should battle for the win. Tri State invader Without Purpose, who makes his FL debut, could surprise the two.
Race 10: Derby Lane’s top dog Reward Trent could make it win 23 for the meet. Law’s Crusader, in post two, could repeat his last box to wire win. BBR Flyin Easy who also posted a box to wire win in her last start could light the board.
Saturday Night
Race 6: Kelsos Scotsclan and Deco Ellen Alone could be the quiniela combination. Both will face TMJ Little Linda, who is seeking three in a row. Jack’s Jet, who ran a fine race from the same five box he drew here, could upset.
Race 8: Flying Mancini goes for nine in a row in this race. Her biggest threat is TMC’s Remedy. Mancini, who reset the season’s best distance time of 36.96 this past Wednesday, could be on course for a new track record. She holds records over two dista