Vera's News

Kiowa AK Richpie has been an impressive racer for the top Patriot Kennel. Greyhound Hall of Famer Kay Smith and Al Flohr own Richpie. He was the top point-getter in both the October Fall Sprint and the Sprint Classic last week where he finished fourth. And Richpie finished third in the 660-yard challenge last December. There is no doubt the Lonesome Cry x Kay Race Rich bred pup can go the distance. He will be a strong threat to the Distance Classic defender TMC’s Remedy who was the runner-up in the Flashy Sir award for best distance runner in the nation announced earlier in the week.

America’s sweetest racing Thoroughbreds will be featured at Derby Lane via simulcast Saturday March 13. Zenyatta will compete in the Santa Anita Margarita Invitational Handicap. Her biggest nemesis Rachel Alexandra will be in New Orleans competing in the Ladies at Fairgrounds stakes. Both females are eyeing the Apple Blossom Invitational stakes at Oaklawn on April 9. And, the Kentucky Derby early morning line favorite Lookin At Lucky, trained by Bob Baffert, is also featured this weekend at Derby Lane via simulcast from Oaklawn Park.

The World Classic stakes series at Mardi Gras is underway where Derby Lane’s only entry TMC’s Trail Boss had a troubled round one. Boss was the runner-up in the World Classic stakes last year to Yahoo Omar that won his first round Wednesday night, as he seeks to defend the title. Round two is Saturday night and will also be simulcast at Derby Lane. Good luck to TMC’s Trail Boss.

McAllister repeats in Sprint Classic
Remedy streak halted
Patriot holding top spot

Last year Malcolm and his wife Barbara posed for shots with Flyin Home Depot that scored the win. Saturday night it was Flying Coal City that turned in an exceptional performance after being blocked twice. Coal City poured it on for a rallying victory and posted a blistering 30.36-the fourth fastest time in the history of the stakes and Coal City’s fastest 550-yard time to date. The quickest Sprint Classic winning time of 30.10 was clocked in 2006 by the Daryl Brumage owned Cajun Cain.

McAllister became the fourth kennel in the 35-year history of the stakes to collect a back to back win. Darby Henry became the first with Nicky Finn (83) and Radar Search (84). E. J. Alderson won the 1988 and 1989 classic with Uncle Albert and Killer Diller. Greymeadow kennel holds the record for most consecutive Sprint Classic wins with three consecutive years from 1998-2000 with Greys Flamebeau, Greys Outbound and Greys Starquest.

A season record crowd of 3,239 came out to cheer for their favorite greyhound in the race. AND, the handle of $472,808 was also the largest of the 2009-2010 meet that began last July. The cash giveaway also enticed fans to participate in the stakes evening. Charter kennel’s Odd Inspector was the betting favorite from post seven. When the box opened it was the fleet-footed Hallo Cool Cobra who jumped out to the lead. He carried Aerial Battle out in the backstretch and then blocked Flying Coal City from making a move in the backstretch. Aerial Battle drove around the two and lead briefly, but Coal City recovered for a phenomenal finish. Flying Coal City paid $8.20, $4.60 and $3.80. The complete order of finish was Flying Coal City, Aerial Battle, Odd Inspector, Kiowa AK Richpie, Flying Bergen, Blind By Thirst, Hallo Cool Cobra and Lamorge Streaker.

Two races before the Sprint Classic TMC’s Remedy attempted a sixth in a row. The leading favorite and defending champion in next month’s Distance Classic was the betting favorite in post one. Remedy flew wide in the first turn that might have cost him the win. Meanwhile WW’s Deathvalley broke fourth and powered his way to the front in the backstretch. Although Remedy was within striking distance in the backstretch, Deathvalley pulled away from the pack in championship style to win by six lengths at the wire. WW’s Deathvalley was the St. Petersburg Derby champion last June and is expected to enter the Distance Classic. TMC’s Remedy remains in a two-way tie with Aerial Battle as "top dog" with eight wins since January. Kiowa Knockout won last year’s $35,000 stakes at Naples and was the early leader. She finished a respectable third and will also enter the Distance Classic that begins March 27.

Patriot kennel takes the lead again. "Al Flohr and Kay Smith have given us some really nice pups," said Patriot trainer and kennel manager Victor Hall. "I feel very blessed to be this competitive against Barney O’Donnell’s dogs." The Patriot kennel began closing in last month and has jockeyed the top spot with Filipelli & O’Donnell ever since. Patriot’s Kiowa Trent Tira currently holds the season’s fastest 550-yard time of 30.15 and Kiowa Doriane is one of the five fastest over the 660-yard course. Patriot begins the new week three wins in front with 110. Filipelli & O’Donnell is second followed by Lester Raines, McAllister and Charter making up the top five kennels.

The McAllister kennel returns to Saturday’s 35^th annual Sprint Classic stakes as the defending kennel. Last year the kennel had three finalists and won the stakes race with Flyin Home Depot. This year McAllister has two entries in the race with Flying Coal City in post one and Flying Bergen in post eight. Flying Coal City finished the series in third place with 44 points. Bergen finished sixth with 34 points. Coal City is known for his late kick and will be a favorite. Bergen is from a repeat breeding of the bloodlines that produced last year’s finalist and All-American Flying Mancini. Bergen will be most competitive if she gets a clean break. At 19 months, Flying Bergen is the youngest entry in the stakes. Photo is 2009 champion Flyin Home Depot.

The Filipelli & O’Donnell kennel is the only other kennel returning from last year’s stakes. Their entry Hallo Cool Cobra was ranked ninth with 26 points and was eliminated after semifinals. A stroke of luck for the kennel put the 73-pound male back in the final after Deco Bull Rum (Capabal) was eliminated with an interfered line. Last year the kennel finished second in the race final with TMC’s Trail Boss.

Patriot kennel drew post four with Kiowa AK Richpie who earned the most points (50) in the series. Richpie was also the high point-getter in the Fall Sprint stakes. Richpie reeled off two in a row before the series and added a pair of wins during the first two rounds. The dual distance male is lethal if he gets a lane to race in.

Alderson kennel’s Lamorge Streaker is the track sweetheart and the oldest in the field. She turned four years old in November and showed the youngsters the way around the track. Streaker finished fifth high in the series with 36 points. Streaker encountered trouble in semifinals that put her out of a money finish for the first time in six starts. Streaker is also eyeing a 75^th career win in the stakes. The Alderson kennel is the longest running kennel at Derby Lane. The last time they were in the Sprint Classic winner’s circle was in 1989 with the well-known Killer Diller.

Charter kennel’s Odd Inspector was undefeated until Wednesday’s semifinal round where the male had a troubled race and finished last. Inspector drew the outside seven box where he won from in round two. He will be a favorite in the race. Inspector wrapped up the series ranked second with 48 points. Inspector’s biggest threat could be Aerial Battle that will break next to him in post six.

Capabal kennel’s Aerial Battle is this year’s Matinee Idol champion and hopes to collect a second stakes win. The Lincoln import has impressed since his debut. Battle will look to assault the field with a flashy break that could put him several lengths in front if all goes his way. Battle ranks fourth with 37 points from the series and could be the betting favorite.

In 2007 Floyd & Porter’s Hometown Boy became the only greyhound in Sprint Classic history to sweep the entire series. Boy won all qualifiers and the stakes race final. This year’s entry Blind By Thirst ranks seventh with 33 points in the series. Thirst came from fifth to first in semifinals that secured his entry in tonight’s feature. He will need some racing luck to win from post five and will pay handsome if he upsets the field.

Best of luck to all of the finalists.

Breaking news for Thursday March 4, 6:45PM, EST

Posts for the 35th annual Sprint Classic have been drawn. Below is race 10 Saturday night March 6. Full story to follow.

35th Annual Sprint Classic final
Race 10 Saturday night March 6
IN POST POSITION ORDER
1-Flying Coal City, McAllister
2-Hallo Cool Cobra, Filipelli & O'Donnell
3-Lamorge Streaker, Alderson
4-Kiowa AK Richpie, Patriot
5-Blind By Thirst, Floyd & Porter
6-Aerial Battle, Capabal
7-Odd Inspector, Charter
8-Flying Bergen, McAllister

News for March 4, 2010

TMC’s Remedy continues distance spree and collects 50^th career win
Field set for Saturday’s Sprint Classic stakes
Posts drawn Thursday night

While the 550-yard semifinalists for Saturday’s Sprint Classic were competiting for a slot in the stakes, TMC’s Remedy (Lonesome Cry x TMC’s Josalynn) won the photo for win in race eight that gave him a fifth consecutive win and his 50^th career victory. The three and a half-year old male continues to impress as he tunes up to defend his title in next month’s Distance Classic. Remedy is also waiting to hear if he will be among the top eight greyhounds in the nation named to the All America Team that will be announced later this month. Remedy is also a leading candidate for a Flashy Sir nod. Both awards will be announced this month. TMC’s Remedy is owned by Eddie McDonald of TX and races with the Filipelli & O’Donnell kennel. Holding TMC's Remedy (right) is kennel helper David Keck.

The Sprint Classic semifinals saw several upsets in the first heat. The sixth race saw Floyd & Porter’s Blind By Thirst (EM’s Mac Attack x Brinks Vennesso) upset the favorite Deco Bull Rum to score the top points moving Thirst from 13^th place to seventh earning him a post in the final. Flying Bergen was in the lead but met interference by Deco Bull Rum who was eliminated from the stakes. Although he met interference Bergen advanced. The complete order of finish was Blind By Thirst, Flying Bergen, Deco Bull Rum, Starz Lee Steel, Lamorge Red Fish, LK Aramis, Yahoo Oscar and Hallo Cool Cobra.

The tenth race was the toughest with the majority of the high point getters in the field. Flying Coal City won the race paying $19.80. Coal City’s win gives the defending McAllister kennel two shots at the title on Saturday. Aerial Battle was the betting favorite and was caught in the stretch by City. Battle ran second followed by Kiowa AK Richpie, Cold Fusion, Lamorges Aces Up, Lamorge Streaker, Bow Tie Brigade and Odd Inspector.

The points were tallied and due to the elimination of Deco Bull Rum who scored third high in the series, the ninth place greyhound was moved to the last slot. There was a tie between Hallo Cool Cobra that ran last and Cold Fusion who scored a fourth. Hallo Cool Cobra who was eliminated earlier was reinstated with a better record in the series for the tie-breaker. Below are the eight greyhounds that made the final. Posts for the race will be drawn Thursday night and posted on Vera’s News immediately following.

35^th annual Sprint Classic finalists – NOT in post position order
Kiowa AK Richpie, 50 points, Patriot
Odd Inspector, 48 points, Charter
Flying Coal City, 44, McAllister
Aerial Battle, 37, Capabal
Lamorge Streaker, 36, Alderson
Flying Bergen, 34, McAllister
Blind By Thirst, 33, Floyd & Porter
Hallo Cool Cobra, 26, Filipelli & O’Donnell
Substitute if needed is Cold Fusion, 26, Lester Raines

News update for Wednesday March 3, 2010
Sprint Classic semifinals tonight
Twin Trifecta Jackpot is forced out EVERY Wednesday night
TMC's Remedy seeks five in a row tonight

The semifinal rounds of the 35^th annual Sprint Classic will be held tonight in races six and ten. The top eight greyhounds scoring the most points after race ten tonight will compete in the March 6 final. AND, ten fans will take home $500 each, as we draw names during the first ten races for a total cash giveaway of $5,000 Saturday night March 6.

Among tonight’s field is the undefeated Odd Inspector who is chasing Hometown Boy’s undefeated mark and record race. Hometown Boy is the only greyhound in the history of the stakes to win every round and the stakes race final. He accomplished that in 2007. The majority of the top point getters will battle in race ten tonight. The first semi in race six features the fleet-footed Hallo Cool Cobra who is expected to beat the box and set the pace. Cobra is ranked #7^th and will need a good finish to guarantee him a slot in the final. Deco Bull Rum is ranked third in the race and does not have to impress to make it to the final. He won two of his three rounds.

The tenth race is a prelude to the final. The smoke filled race features Odd Inspector going for four in a row. He leads with 48 points and just needs to skip around the track, as he has already earned his post in the final. Lamorge Streaker, the oldest in the field, impressed all in round three when the female scored the win against a tough field. She is in the strongest field and the top points could be scored by any of the eight. Among the field is Kiowa AK Richpie who split leaders to take second place last Saturday. Richpie has also earned enough points to advance to the final so he does not have to repeat his Saturday stamina. Following the tenth race tonight, the elite eight will be posted that will compete on Saturday. The post draw will be held in the Racing Office Thursday night and posted here on Vera’s News immediately following.

Wednesday matinee notes:
Race 2: Some nice pups making their maiden debut in this race features Kiowa Starz Dale who won both schoolers. J’s Texas drew favorably on the rail after two schoolers from the inside. Silver Acclaim also schooled well. Both his races were from the rail and he competes from the outside eight.
Race 4: Littermates sired by 2008 Flashy Sir winner TK’s Quick Strike make their maiden debut. Strike And Spare and Strike It Up break next to each other in post three and four.
Race 6: Kiowa WL Cougar should be a favorte from the rail post in this top grade field. Kelsos Babycham and Flyin Griffin are the program favorites.
Race 10: Vegas Rooster has been installed as the program favorite. The male is seeking a third win in his past four starts. WW’s Fox Hunter could upset if he beats the box.
Race 12: Kiowa Trent Tira holds the season’s fastest time and was moved back to the shorter run. She finished second last week and should be able to get out and score a win in this field.
Race 13: Sparky Fastpants is a graded maiden that could be the sleeper in this field.
Race 14: Kiowa AK Richie is the litter-brother to Sprint Classic semifinalist Kiowa AK Richpie.

Wednesday night notes:
Race 3: Special Purpose is making his maiden debut after acing his two schoolers by nine and four lengths. Race 5: Kiowa Hallo Win baosts a perfect four of four money record on her way up the graded ladder. She will be a favorite in this first half of the Tri Super race.
Race 6: This is the first of two semifinal heats for the Sprint Classic. Deco Bull Rum should move to the final but for the remaining seven it is anyone’s game. The results of this field will control who advances.
Race 8: TMC’s Remedy is seeking five in a row as the distance athlete tunes up for next month’s Distance Classic. The stakes begins at the end of this month. The male is in contention for an All American nomination and a Flashy Sir nod.
Race 10: The Sprint Classic prelude features the majority of the high point getters. This race will definitely showcase the sprint talent and give great insight into Saturday’s final. Final eight posted tonight.

Breaking news Monday night March 1, 7:20 PM, Est.
Semifinal for Sprint Classic has been drawn
Sneak Peek for Wednesday night’s races below

The draw and post shake was held in the Racing Office after official weigh-in Monday night and the semifinals are set. Sixteen will compete, eight will move on after Wednesday to the 35^th annual stakes race final over the 550-yard course. Charter kennel’s Odd Inspector is the point leader and the only undefeated semifinalist. Only one greyhound has ever swept the entire event and that was Hometown Boy in 2007 for the Floyd & Porter kennel. The kennel has two in the semifinals with Blind By Thirst who drew the seven post in race six and Bow Tie Brigade who will break from the coveted rail post in the tenth.

Below is an early peek at the race.
Sprint Classic Semifinal
Race 6 Wednesday night March 3
1-Flying Bergen, 24 McAllister
2-Hallo Cool Cobra, 26 Filipelli & O’Donnell
3-Starz Lee Steel, 19 Patriot
4-Yahoo Oscar, 13 Campbell
5-Lamorge Red Fish, 13 Alderson
6-LK Aramis, 20 Magic City – Mighty Fine
7-Blind By Thirst, 17 Floyd & Porter
8-Deco Bull Rum, 38 Capabal

Sprint Classic Semifinal
Race 10 Wednesday night March 3
1-Bow Tie Brigade, 22 Floyd & Porter
2-Aerial Battle, 27 Capabal
3-Cold Fusion, 20 Lester Raines
4-Odd Inspector, 48 Charter
5-Kiowa AK Richpie, 42 Patriot
6-Flying Coal City, 28 McAllister
7-Lamorge Streaker, 34 Alderson
8-Lamorge Aces Up, 9 Magic City- Mighty Fine

Update for Sunday Feb. 28

Odd Inspector continues undefeated spree in Sprint Classic series
Lamorge Streaker impresses again
TMC’s Remedy collects four in a row
Hennessy hits bullseye in Ladbrokes Golden Jacket stakes

Saturday night’s third round of the Sprint Classic saw Charter kennel’s Odd Inspector give another outstanding performance in the Sprint Classic series. The two and a half year-old male owned by Linda Jones of KS collected his third consecutive win Saturday night. Hallo Cool Cobra broke quickly but was no match for Flying Bergen who snatched the lead and was leading by four in the homestretch. Odd Inspector touted his closing style once again to score a third set of win points Flying Bergen racked up second place points followed by Bow Tie Brigade that nosed out Cobra for fourth. Inspector won by two lengths in 31.33 and paid $8.20 over the bet favorite Aerial Battle who was also seeking the hat trick in the field. Fifth through eighth was Starz Lee Steel, LD Aramis, Aerial Battle and Lamorge Redfish.

The second heat saw the track sweetheart Lamorge Streaker of the Alderson kennel halt the streak of Deco Bull Rum and pay $19.20 for her upset in 30.97. The oldest contender in the series proved her experience paid off. The flashy female broke third and rushed up to take the lead and win handily. Kiowa AK Richpie, the favorite at 9-5, gave an exceptional run for second when he encountered early trouble and closed from fifth to second between greyhounds to collect second place points. Cold Fusion also came on strong from last to third followed by Deco Bull Rum, Blind By Thirst, Flying Coal City, Yahoo Oscar and Lamorge Aces Up. The semifinal round of the Sprint Classic will be held Wednesday. The draw for the semifinals will be held Monday and posted right here on Vera’s News at approximately 7:00 PM, EST.
Below are the semifinalists in point order.
Odd Inspector, 48 points, Charter
Kiowa AK Richpie, 42 points, Patriot
Deco Bull Rum, 38 points, Capabal
Lamorge Streaker, 34 points, Alderson
Flying Coal City, 28 points, McAllister
Aerial Battle, 27 points, Capabal
Hallo Cool Cobra, 26 points, Filipelli & O’Donnell
Flying Bergen, 24 points, McAllister
Bow Tie Brigade, 22 points, Floyd & Porter
LK Aramis, 20 points, Magic City –Mighty Fine
Cold Fusion, 20 points, Lester Raines
Starz Lee Steel, 19 points, Patriot
Blind By Thirst, 17 points, Floyd & Porter
Yahoo Oscar, 13 points, Campbell
Lamorge Red Fish, 13 points, Alderson
Lamorges Aces Up, 9 points, Magic City – Mighty Fine

TMC’s Remedy continued his distance dominance Saturday night by collecting four in a row as the male remains the leading favorite in next month’s Distance Classic. Remedy is owned by Eddie McDonald of TX. TMC’s Remedy was ranked one of America’s top dogs in 2009 and is a candidate for All America honors. TMC’s Remedy is also among the list of candidates vying for the Flashy Sir nod. All greyhound awards will be announced in March. Remedy races with the Filipelli & O’Donnell kennel.

Field set for round three of Sprint Classic
Kiowa Power Pak pulled…reuniting with owners in Miami

The races and posts have been drawn for the third round of the 35^th annual Sprint Classic series. Wednesday night’s races saw three of the four first-round winners repeat their performances. Below is a sneak peek at the races in post position order for Saturday night’s round three.
Other news: Kiowa Power Pak has been pulled from Derby Lane and will join the O'Donnell kennel in Miami. No official plans have been announced for the WV superstar.

Round 3 Sprint Classic
Race 6, Saturday Night February 26
1-Bow Tie Brigade, Floyd & Porter
2-Aerial Battle, Capable
3-Odd Inspector, Charter
4-Flying Bergen, McAllister
5-Hallo Cool Cobra, Filipelli & O’Donnell
6-LK Aramis, Magic City – Mighty Fine
7-Starz Lee Steel, Patriot
8-Lamorge Red Fish, Alderson

Round 3 Sprint Classic
Race 10, Saturday Night February 26
1-Deco Bull Rum, Capable
2-Blind By Thirst, Floyd & Porter
3-Yahoo Oscar, Campbell Greyhound
4-Lamorge Aces Up, Magic City – Mighty Fine
5-Lamorge Streaker, Alderson
6-Flying Coal City, McAllister
7-Kiowa AK Richpie, Patriot
8-Cold Fusion, Raines

Deco Bull Rum, Odd Inspector, Kiowa AK Richpie undefeated in Sprint Classic series
Greta’s Cryhondo beats Kiowa Power Pak...again!
Smooth Jackeroo pays $96.60 to win Wednesday night
Nodirtinmyface heads $1 super paying $27,518 Wednesday night

Wednesday night’s races saw three of the four round one winners repeat their performances in the Sprint Classic series. Deco Bull Rum went box to wire for Capabal. Odd Inspector ran down a second competitor to score a pair of top points and Kiowa AK Richpie took charge in the backstretch to score a back to back win. Flying Coal City added win points to his second place points in round one when he ran down the fleet-footed Hallo Cool Cobra in the seven-dog field. The field was sliced to 16. Nine points was the cutoff. There was a three-way tie for the last spot. Lamorge Aces Up had the better finish of the three. If there is a scratch Backwood Nan (Campbell) would be the substitute. Alan Green (Cal Holland) also had 9 points and would be a second alternate if needed. Below is the top sixteen that will move to round three Saturday. The draw will be held in the Racing Office Thursday night February 25 and will be posted right here on Vera’s News immediately following for a sneak peek at the Saturday field.

Top sixteen advancing to Round Three Saturday February 27.
Deco Bull Rum 32 Capabal
Odd Inspector 32 Charter
Kiowa AK Richpie 32 Patriot
Flying Coal City 26 McAllister
Aerial Battle 26 Capabal
Hallo Cool Cobra 20 Filipelli & O’Donnell
Lamorge Streaker 20 Alderson
LK Aramis 18 Magic City – Mighty Fine
Starz Lee Steel 16 Patriot
Bow Tie Brigade 14 Floyd & Porter
Flying Bergen 14 McAllister
Blind By Thirst 14 Floyd & Porter
Lamorge Red Fish 13 Alderson
Cold Fusion 12 Raines
Yahoo Oscar 12 Campbell
Lamorge Aces Up 9 Magic City – Mighty Fine

Wednesday night Wheeling invader Kiowa Power Pak had to take a back seat again to Capabal kennel’s Greta’s Cryhondo (Coldwater Konow x Bobbye’s Dallas), who beat Kiowa Power Pak from scoring a first win in FL on Saturday and a 50^th career win Wednesday night.
Big prices were seen Wednesday night when Nodirtinmyface (Campbell) headed the maiden superfecta in race three that paid $27,518 for the 2-5-3-7 combination. AND, in race 12 Floyd & Porter kennel's Smooth Jackeroo paid $96.60 to win his grade D race. Jackeroo missed winning his last start by a head.

Updated Monday night Feb. 22, 2010
Round #2 Sprint Classic Wednesday night- Sneak peek below
Dr. Randy pulled from stakes
Aerial Battle seeks five straight Wednesday
Kiowa Power Pak back Wednesday night race 11

Round two of the Sprint Classic will be in races 4, 6, 8 and 10 Wednesday night. Nova kennel’s Dr. Randy was pulled from the stakes after he collided and fell in round one. The fourth race Wednesday night is a seven-dog field. Aerial Battle hopes to continue his streak in race eight. The Matinee Idol champion is pitted against round one winner Odd Inspector. The field will be sliced to the top 16 following the tenth race Wednesday night. Wheeling invader Kiowa Power Pak is back on track Wednesday night in with the majority of the same field he ran against Saturday night. Pak drew the rail post against Greta’s Cryhondo who kept the male at bay and won back to back distance races. She drew the two post. Its Quillan is back in the seven post again and Kiowa Doriane drew the five box in the 11^th race that is the first half of the Twin Trifecta.

Round #2 Sprint Classic
In post position order. Points included
Race 4 Wednesday Night February 24
1-Hi Noon Showboat (1) Nova
2-Flying Coal City (10) McAllister
3-Yahoo Oscar (6) Campbell
4-Starz Lee Steel (8) Patriot
5-WW’s Revamped (3) Wayne Ward
6-Lamorge Aces Up (8) Magic City – Mighty Fine
7-Hallo Cool Cobra (10) Filipelli & O’Donnell
8-THIS IS A SEVEN- DOG RACE

Round #2 Sprint Classic
In post position order. Points included
Race 6 Wednesday Night February 24
1-Deco Bull Rum (16) Capabal
2-Flying Bergen (8) McAllister
3-Sailors Return (2) D’Arcy
4-Lamorge Red Fish (10) Alderson
5-Bow Tie Brigade (6) Floyd & Porter
6-Bow Miyabi (1) Abernathy
7-Cold Fusion (2) Raines
8-Upcomin Design (0) Charter　

Round #2 Sprint Classic
In post position order. Points included
Race 8 Wednesday Night February 24
1-Blind By Thirst (6) Floyd & Porter
2-Jack’s Shortfuse (2) Cal Holland
3-Kiowa Lazy Lazy (6) Raines
4-Cleo N Honey (2) Abernathy
5-Fine Cheyenne (0) Royal Racing Team
6-Backwood Nan (3) Campbell
7-Odd Inspector (16) Charter
8-Aerial Battle (16) Capabal

Round #2 Sprint Classic
In post position order. Points included
Race 10 Wednesday Night February 24
1-Duke Of Davron (1) Royal Racing Team
2-Lamorge Streaker (10) Alderson
3-Kiowa Gee Whiz (0) Filipelli & O’Donnell
4-Nicolaus Sliver (1) D’Arcy
5-Alan Green (3) Cal Holland
6-Kiowa AK Richpie (16) Patriot
7-LK Aramis (8) Magic City – Mighty Fine
8-WW’s South Pole (3) Wayne Ward

The first round of the 2010 Sprint Classic is in the books and top dogs will be vying for a second set of high points in round two Wednesday night. Capabal kennel’s Deco Bull Rum posted the first set of top points in race four Saturday night. Bull Rum won the photo against the betting favorite Lamorge Streaker from the Alderson kennel. Streaker was in front, but a rub from Rum at the wire took the win away from the track sweet heart. Lamorge Aces Up finished third followed by Bow Tie Brigade that completed the superfecta. The winning time was 31.07 and Bull Rum paid $9.60 to win. Fifth through eighth was Backwood Nan, Sailors Return, Hi Noon Showboat and Upcomin Design.

The sixth race saw the evenly matched field head to the turn at once causing a first turn jam that saw Dr Randy, Cold Fusion and Bow Miyabi collide and fall in the first turn. Kiowa AK Richpie left the trouble behind to score top points for Patriot kennel. Lamorge Red Fish collected second place points followed by Flying Bergen and Yahoo Oscar taking third and fourth respectively. Richpie clocked a 30.95 and paid $7.60. Fifth through eighth went to WW’s South Pole, Cold Fusion, Bow Miyabi and Dr. Randy.

Race eight saw Odd Inspector run down the favorite Hallo Cool Cobra and pull away in a seven and a half-length victory clocking the fastest first round time of 30.73. The Charter kennel entry paid $7.00 to win. Hallo Cool Cobra was second followed by LK Aramis, Blind By Thirst, WW’s Revamped, Jack’s Shortfuse, Nicolaus Silver and Fine Cheyenne.

After three heats of upsets a favorite finally pulled through and held to win. Capabal kennel scored a second winner in the series with Aerial Battle who went box to wire and held off Flying Coal City by a half-length. Starz Lee Steel took advantage of a preferred outside post to score third place points. Kiowa Lazy Lazy completed the superfecta. Battle won in 30.83 to pay $3.40 to win. Fifth through eighth place went to Alan Green, Cleo N Honey, Duke Of Davron and Kiowa Gee Whiz finished last. The second round of the Sprint Classic will be Wednesday night February 24. The field will be sliced to sixteen. The races and posts will be drawn Monday night for round two and will be on Vera’s News immediately following.

Other news: Kiowa Power Pak made his 660-yard debut Saturday night. Pak, who is a slow breaker, stalked his prey and made his move down the backstretch, but was blocked in the far turn and finished a respectable second to Greta’s Cryhondo from the Capabal kennel that collected their third win of the night. Cryhondo paid $53.80 to win.

Last week Royal Racing Team joined the Derby Lane roster and replaced the La Rosa Enterprises kennel.

Saturday night February 20
Race 4 Round #1 Sprint Classic in post order
1-Bow Tie Brigade, Floyd & Porter
2-Upcomin Design, Charter
3-Backwood Nan, Campbell
4-Lamorge Streaker, Alderson
5-Sailors Return, D'Arcy
6-Deco Bull Rum, Capabal
7-Hi Noon Showboat, Nova
8-Lamorge Aces Up, Magic City - Mighty Fine

Saturday night February 20
Race 6 Round #1 Sprint Classic in post order
1-Dr. Randy, Nova
2-Yahoo Oscar, Campbell
3-Lamorge Red Fish, Alderson
4-Bow Miyabi, Abernathy
5-Kiowa AK Richpie, Patriot
6-Cold Fushion, Raines
7-Flying Bergen, McAllister
8-WW's South Pole, Wayne Ward

Saturday night February 20
Race 8 Round #1 Sprint Classic in post order
1-Jack's Shortfuse, Cal Holland
2-Fine Cheyenne, Royal Racing
3-WW's Revamped, Wayne Ward
4-Blind By Thirst, Floyd & Porter
5-Hallo Cool Cobra, Filipelli & O'Donnell
6-Odd Inspector, Charter
7-Nicolaus Silver, D'Arcy
8-LK Aramis, Magic City - Mighty Fine

Saturday night February 20
Race 10 Round #1 Sprint Classic in post order
1-Kiowa Lazy Lazy, Raines
2-Cleo N Honey, Abernathy
3-Duke Of Davron, Royal Racing
4-Kiowa Gee Whiz, Filipelli & O'Donnell
5-Flying Coal City, McAllister
6-Aerial Battle, Capabal
7-Alan Green, Cal Holland
8-Starz Lee Steel, Patriot

Update for February 15
Next update February 18

Weekend News updated February 12, 2010

Kiowa Power Pak makes schooling debut Friday night
Diamond Necklace giveaway Saturday night
Dewey Millions defends title in Govenor’s Rotary Feature
TMC’s Remedy highlights Sweetheart Challenge
Fantasy greyhound picks due 7:00 Saturday night

It’s going to be a big weekend at Derby Lane. Friday night fans can get a sneak peek at Kiowa Power Pak who will be making his schooling debut. The top dog from Wheeling WV has made his way south and will be preparing for next month’s Distance Classic.

Saturday matinee the Rotarians are back on track in full force and Dewey Millions will be defending his title in the Rotary Governor’s Feature in the sixth race. Many of the greyhounds in the afternoon feature will be lining up in the first round of the Sprint Classic that begins February 20. Dewey will break from post three and hopes the fleet-footed Odd Inspector doesn’t beat him to the turn from post four. Deco Bull Rum drew the coveted rail post and is looking for an eighth trifecta finish in nine starts. Lamorge Aces UP is outside where he likes to race. Hallo Cool Cobra has won two of his three races after returning from a short rest.

Cold Fusion will be a strong late threat and boasts eight money finishes out of his nine starts this year. Flying Griffin has a perfect nine of nine record and the inside two is a good post for him as well. Kiowa Deli Dana recently moved to the top grade and is looking for her first win there. She will need a little help getting it among the seasoned top grade veterans.

Saturday night fans will be treated to a triple dose of entertainment. The Derby Club restaurant is preparing a special buffet for the evening. Fans attending the night races can enter to win a diamond necklace. And the battle of the sexes will be held in race six featuring this year’s Flashy Sir candidate TMC’s Remedy. His female opponent Its Quillan almost beat the male in last year’s distance classic. He snatched the win away from her at the wire by a neck. WW’s Revamped, Kiowa Doriane and M’s Dream Lady complete the female field. Along with Remedy Flying Coal City will also be a favorite in the race. Bow Miyabi and Magic Porkchop complete the male entries.

and enter your picks. It’s that easy. Later that evening you will receive a score sheet with everyone’s picks. If you can’t follow along for the night no worries! Sunday morning you will receive an email of the complete score sheet with the winner. Several of us are on Twitter Saturday night tweeting the night away and talking dogs. I am Topgreyhound on twitter. Find me and you'll find our group.

Patriot new leader in Kennel standings
GPA Tampa Bay 5K a hit
Sweet giveaway Saturday night

Last week Patriot kennel was building momentum and gaining on the top kennel. The kennel also recorded a new season’s best time. Trainer Victor Hall continued to watch his athletes perform successfully. Patriot kennel won 12 races last week and nudged Filipelli & O’Donnell out of the top spot in the standings to kick off a new week. Patriot is one win in front with 64 wins. Lester Raines kennel also rallied last week with 14 wins and is a close third with 59 wins. McAllister kennel is fourth with 50 followed by Campbell Greyhound Racing’s 49 victories to round out the top five.

A big congratulations goes out to Greyhound Pets of America Tampa Bay Chapter that hosted a first Pet Friendly 5K Run/Fun Walk at Lake Seminole Park Saturday February 6. After the terrible storms Friday night a promising rainbow set the stage for the Saturday morning event. Dogs from many breeds joined their owners in the competition. GPA volunteer Debra Crawford organized the event. "I love to run and compete in many competitions. I have always wanted to run with my pet and thought it would be fun to do," said Crawford. "I am happy with the turnout for a first time event and look forward to holding another one next year." Crawford is a kindergarten teacher in St. Petersburg and praised the other GPA volunteers that helped her coordinate the event. She also praised Derby Lane a sponsor of the event as well as FAST of Florida, Inc., RoadID, Just Like Home and Pinellas Animal Hospital/Bird Clinic for their sponsorships too.

Join us Saturday night February 13 for a delicious Valentine buffet in the Derby Club. You can now make reservations on line. And, enter to win a diamond necklace to be given away after the running of the Sweetheart Challenge that will pit 4 males against 4 females in a battle of the sexes for the blanket and trophy presentation.

Kiowa North Pole, Backwood Nan & Lamorge Streaker among weekend warriors
Don’t forget to get you entries in for the Saturday night Fantasy Greyhound League
Start your Saturday morning off with a 5K-Pets welcome to join the fun hosted by GPA Tampa Bay

We’ve got a great weekend of greyhound racing lined up highlighting our top sprinters that are prepping for the upcoming $85,000 Sprint Classic that kicks off on February 20. Thirty-two greyhounds will vie for a shot at becoming the elite eight in the stakes final on March 6. Highlighting the sprinters this weekend is Wayne Ward kennel’s Kiowa Northpole who is seeking three in row in race 10 Friday night against Dewey Millions and Starz Lee Steel who has a perfect 6 of 6 since arriving at Derby Lane.

Saturday matinee Cold Sober returns after a month layoff in race 6 to contend with Carolina Flare, who is in grade A for her first start. Flare is seeking the hat trick and could also face opposition from Hallo Cool Cobra who also returned to racing Wednesday afternoon winning his return race. Saturday matinee also features SKG’s Budz is a rising juvenile who is seeking a fourth in a row among the top grade field in race 10. The youngster will face many seasoned veterans including Nicolaus Silver who has missed by a nose his last two starts and Kiowa Class King who is 6 of 7 this year.

Saturday night Odd Inspector goes for two in a row. Wednesday night the speedy male went box to wire from post four. He will break from the inside three. Kiowa Sky Van is seeking his fourth win and fifth quiniela finish in five runs. The 660-yard athletes are featured in race eight. Backwood Nan is seeking the hat trick. The female held off the 660-yard champion TMC’s Remedy last start. She is pitted against Flying Coal City who is looking good after his three-month layoff. Lamorge Aces Up have an impressive performance Tuesday night to come from behind for two in a row. The male is posted well and faces off with Matinee Idol Champion Aerial Battle and last year’s Sprint Classic runner-up TMC’s Trail Boss.

The track sweetheart Lamorge Streaker has had two tough races where she has been shuffled around since her return two weeks ago. Streaker is by far the oldest in the 12^th race field. She turned four years old in November and this is more than likely her final racing season. Alan Green is 7 of 8 in the money this year boasting a money finish in his last six starts. Toms Last Evro has moved from grade D to A in his first top grade debut. Tom has been the betting favorite in five of his last six races.

The Saturday fantasy Greyhound League hosted by KCImagemakers.com is featured again this month. Join greyhound enthusiasts from around the globe as they try and pick the top dogs each Saturday night. It’s fun and easy. All one does is pick the winner of each of the 15 races Saturday night and then enter the picks at the KCImagemakers site. They will do the rest. You will receive an email with a score sheet showing everyone’s picks. The following day a confirmation email is sent out with the tallied score card in tact and a winner announced. And, for those that want to interact we’re on Twitter. Just log on to Twitter and find me, Topgreyhound and I’ll link you to all our fantasy tweeters. Good luck! See you Saturday.

Weekend News updated January 15

Every Saturday night Derby Lane fans worldwide enter the Saturday night Fantasy League hosted by KCI Imagemakers. We can’t thank Frank and Shelly enough for their support. Last week over 50 players from across the globe logged on. We also tweet live from Derby Lane every Saturday night. To play select your 15 winners for Saturday night and enter them at http://www.kcimagemakers.com/greyhound.html.

It’s that time of year when all tracks submit their top athletes to the nominating committee for the AGTOA’s All America Team. Each year eight greyhounds are named to the team representing the best greyhound team in the nation. Derby Lane has submitted their veteran champions and notables from the past year. Best of luck to all of the greyhounds including Derby Lane’s finest. Photos of many of the champions below are shown in the photo above.

Below are ten of Derby Lane’s best of 2009.

TMC's Remedy (Lonesome Cry - TMC's Josalynn) Eddie Mc Donald owner. Filipelli & O'Donnell kennel. 1st $100,000 Distance Classic, 1st $75,000 Distance Challenge, 5th $30,000 Mardi Gras Hollywoodian. Raced Derby Lane and Mardi Gras.

Lamorge Streaker (Kiowa Sweet Trey - Hammerhead Doris) G. W. Reich or M. G. Porter owners. Alderson kennel.1^st 8,000 T. L. Weaver Memorial, Finalist $8,000 Inaugural, 21 of 23 quiniela finishes 5/23 through 8/29. Raced Derby Lane only.

Kiowa Knockout (Flying Penske - Flying Sweet Amy) Vince Berland owner. Mc Allister kennel. 1st $30,000 Naples Fort Myers Classic, 4th $75,000 Distance Challenge, Finalist $10,000 St. Pete Consolation. Raced Derby Lane, Naples and Mardi Gras.

TMC's Trail Boss (Lonesome Cry - TMC's Josalynn) Eddie Mc Donald owner. Filipelli & O'Donnell kennel. 1^st 10,000 Matinee Idol, 2nd $85,000 Sprint Classic, 2nd $75,000 World Classic at Mardigras, 4th $20,00 Joe Ryan Memorial, 3rd $8,000 SP Inaugural. Biggest streak 7 in a row. Raced Derby Lane, Mardi Gras & Wheeling.

WW's Deathvalley (Kiowa Sweet Trey - WW Casey) Julia Ward owner. Wayne Ward kennel.1st $30,000 St. Petersburg Derby, Finalist $100,000 Distance Classic, Finalist $75,000 Distance Challenge. Raced Derby Lane, Mardi Gras & Dubuque.

Backwood Nan (Lonesome Cry - Larry's Boss) Hugo, Hartsfield, Jr. owner. Campbell Greyhound Racing.2nd $20,000 Gold Trophy Juvenile, 4th $30,000 St Pete Derby, 2nd Night of Stars XXII, Finalist $100,000 Distance Classic, Finalist $75,000 Distance Challenge.

Hallo Gold Acre (Hallo West Acre - TMC's Gold Digger) James E. O'Donnell, Jr. owner. Filipelli & O'Donnell kennel. 1st $50,000 Fall Sprint (SP), 1st $20,000 Joe Ryan Memorial (MG), 4th $75,000 World Classic (MG) 1st Hot Box feature (MG) Has been the betting favorite nearly every start in his career. Raced Derby Lane, Mardi Gras, Wheeling.

Flying Mancini (Kiowa Sweet Trey - Gable Acadia) Greg Mclaughin owner. McAllister kennel.1st $8,000 Derby Lane Inaugural (550), 2nd $10,000 Matinee Idol (550), 3rd $85,000 Sprint Classic (550) Seasons fastest (660) SP, 5th $100,000 Distance Classic (660), 5th $10,000 Holiday Sprint WD, Six in row WD. Was bet favorite in nearly every start in 2009. Raced Derby Lane, Mardi Gras, Bluffs Run and Wheeling Downs.

Its Quillan (Flying Penske - Its A Doubleshot) Julia Ward owner. Wayne Ward kennel. 2nd $100,000 Distance Classic, 3^rd $30,000 St. Pete Derby, Finalist $30,000 Naples Fort Myers Classic. Raced Derby Lane, Naples, Mardi Gras & Dubuque.Flying Home Depot (SP) R.BD. M 09/26/2006 (Flying Penske - Shelbourne Moon*) Vince Berland owner. Mc Allister kennel. 21-7-6-1-1 1st $85,000 Sprint Classic (the highest paying 550-yard stakes.)

TMC's Remedy wins final stakes of the decade

WHAT A RACE! TMC's Remedy overcame trouble and closed from way back to win the final stakes of the decade. This will be a race watched over and over. "I couldn't believe he came from so far back," said trainer John Filipelli. "He is a class animal and one of the best distance hounds I have handled over the years."  Remedy's victory moves him into the limelight for a Flashy Sir nod, as the male racked up a second major distance stakes. He won the $100,000 stakes in April. He made the cut at Mardi Gras in the final of the Hollywoodian that was won by his kennelmate. Back in St. Petersburg Remedy made the cut for anotyher stakes but was scratched due to a minor injury after St. Pete Derby semifinal. He returned to racing after his layoff and appears to be better than ever after his phenomenal finish. The son of Lonesome Cry and TMC's Josalynn closed out the year winning the $75,000 660-Yard Challenge. Congratulations to the Filipelli & O'Donnell kennel and to Eddie Mc Donald from TX that owns TMC's Remedy.
In the winner's circle presenting the winning trophy is Derby Lane President Vey Weaver. John Filipelli trainer and co-owner, kennel assistants Davina Malpass, Paul giguere and David Peck. Leadout is Rey Rojas with winner TMC's Remedy.

McAllister seeks third consecutive 660-Yard $75,000 stakes win Saturday night
Five Fans will win $500 each in drawings after races 2,4,6,8 & 10 Saturday night
Pick the order of finish in the stakes to win a T'shirt and Christmas ornament
Play Derby Lane Saturday Night Fantasy League for extra prizes this week

Third Annual 660-Yard $75,000 Challenge
Saturday Night December 19
Race 10 - In post position order
1-Kiowa AK Richpie, Patriot kennel
2-Kelsos Isabella, Lester Raines
3-WW's Deathvalley, Wayne Ward
4-Deco Caraways, D'Arcy
5-Kiowa Knockout, McAllister
6-TMC's Remedy, Filipelli & O'Donnell
7-Starz Borntofly, D'Arcy
8-Backwood Nan, Campbell

660 Derby Lane T-Shirt and Christmas Ornament contest rules. Shirt and ornament photo right.
The posts have been drawn (above) for Saturday December 19th. Enter your selections for a shot at the Derby Lane T-shirt and Christmas ornament. Here's how! Submit one entry per person via email naming the greyhounds in the order 1 thru 8 that you feel will be the order of finish of the stakes race final, race 10 Saturday night December 19. In addition, please supply a projected winning time and a projected winning margin to establish tie breakers. For example. Stakes race 1-name of dog, 2-name of dog etc..  Winning time 37.00 and Winning margin 5 lengths as examples. If more than one person selects the correct order of finish then the closest winning time will be used. If there is a tie with the time then the winning margin will be used. Send all emails including MAILING ADDRESS to vera@derbylane.com  by 5:00PM, EST Dec. 19. Winner will be announced Sunday December 20. Thank you for your support, enjoy the race and have a very happy holiday.

AND, for a second chance at another T'Shirt and other goodies play in the Derby Lane Saturday Night Fantasy Greyhound League. Select the winning greyhound in each of the 15 races. Points are allocated if your selection finishes first through fourth place. Points are 16, 10, 8 and 6. The person with the most points wins a prize from KCImagemakers, who sponsor the weekly game. This week five Derby Lane off-track fans playing in the fantasy game will win a Derby Lane T-shirt. And the last place finisher will get a consolation T-shirt for their effort. Enter your picks by 7:00 PM, EST at http://www.kcimagemakers.com/greyhound.html

McAllister seeks third consecutive stakes win Saturday night
The third annual 660 Challenge will be featured in race ten Saturday night. The race is the final stakes of the decade. The McAllister kennel has dominated this stake since 2007 and is seeking a third winner's circle photo tonight. National award winner Flyin Bridgeport won the stakes in 2007 followed by a 2008 win with Flying Mancini, also nationally recognized. Kiowa Knockout hopes to give McAllister the victory that would also put her in the national spotlight. Last February Knockout invaded the Naples track to win the $30,000 Naples Classic (660-yard)as a Derby Lane invader. She returned home and immediately entered the Distance Classic and made it to the semifinals.

Knockout traveled further south an entered the Hollywoodian at Mardi Gras. She made it to the semifinals there, too. Kiowa Knockout was also a finalist in the June Consolation Derby. Despite her fall in semifinals this past Wednesday, Kiowa Knockout made the cut with 30 points. Vince Berland owns Knockout and the first two 660-Yard Challenge champions. Knockout needs to rocket to the front far ahead of the strong closers to guarantee a victory.

Topping the leader board is Kelsos Isabella that scored the top 54 points. She competes for the Lester Raines kennel that won last month's Fall Juvenile stakes. Isabella was undefeated in the series until Wednesday night's semifinal round where she was nearly knocked down. Isabella is the youngest female in the field and has shown great improvement in the series. She has the fewest career starts, but is a smart and savvy competitor. She will be a fan favorite and is the strongest female closer in the group. If she gets out close to the leaders, she could put her competitors away early.

TMC's Remedy won the $100,000 Distance Classic and is the only returning finalist in this year's race. Last year the male finished third. A win tonight would earn him a nod as a Flashy Sir candidate. Remedy's 660-yard record is arguably the best in the nation. Remedy also competed in the Hollywoodian where he made it all the way to the finals this year. He returned to Derby Lane and collected four consecutive wins in his return races. Remedy was a finalist in the June Consolation stakes, but was pulled after a minor injury in semifinals. He returned to prep for this stakes and clocked the series fastest 37.37 on December 12. The male performs best when he stalks the leaders and picks them off one-by-one. He ranked fourth high collecting 38 points for Filipelli & O'Donnell kennel.

WW's Deathvalley is another stakes winner seeking a second title that would also put her in the national spotlight. Deathvalley won the St. Petersburg Derby in June. She competed in two rounds of last year's 660 before being cut. WW’s Deathvalley earned a post in the April $100,000 final, but trouble forced her to finish seventh. The female followed other "derby dogs" to Mardi Gras where she was also a semifinalist. In July Deathvalley left briefly for a three-round stakes stint in IA. Deathvalley was near the bottom in this series, but rewrote her entry into tonight's race after a must win performance Wednesday leaving trouble behind. She finished fifth high in the series with 34 points and races for the Wayne Ward kennel that moved into the top spot in the kennel standings last week.

Campbell kennel's Backwood Nan recorded 44 points to rank her second in the series. The 60-pound powerhouse has jockeyed the 550 and 660-yard distances this year chasing stakes money. Nan was a finalist in the $100,000 Distance Classic over the 660 distance before moving to the shorter 550-yard course for the Gold Trophy Juvenile. She was the runner-up in the stakes race final. Two starts later she entered the T. L. Weaver stakes, but was eliminated after being forced back at the break. Nan moved back to the 660 course for the St. Pete Derby and collected a fourth place finish to WW's Deathvalley. Nan needs to get to the front quickly for a shot at the title against her highly competitive rivals.

Kiowa AK Richpie has only had eight career starts over the 660-yard course. This is his second stakes final. In October the male scored the highest points in the Fall Sprint (550) stakes. He was blocked throughout and finished sixth. Richpie collected 30 points for Patriot after Wednesday's semifinal saw the male denied the rail twice before colliding with Kiowa Knockout. Luck was with Richpie, as a scratch in the race allowed him to collect one point that earned his entry.

D'Arcy kennel is one of five kennels returning to this year's final along with Raines, Filipelli & O’Donnell, McAllister and Campbell. D’Arcy has two shots at the victory with semifinal winner Starz Borntofly-a recent import from Twin Rivers, formally the Lincoln Park in RI. Borntofly was an upset winner Wednesday to score a first set of top points ranking him third with 42 points. Borntofly broke second and quickly moved to the front where he kept the field at bay for a handy win in the first semifinal heat. Borntofly raced the 550 and 670-yard courses at Lincoln and competed in a stakes race in RI, too. His upset proved he should not be discounted.

Deco Caraways, a second D'Arcy entry, debuted in March after acing all of her 550-yard schoolers. She has yet to win a 660-yard start. She has six money finishes of her eight starts at this distance. She could be the surprise of the night. Caraways earned 32 points in the series ranking her sixth in tonight's field.

Upsets in semfinal of Distance Challenge
Aerial Battle sets new season’s best 550
660 Derby Lane T-Shirt and Christmas Ornament contest
(Details Below)

Field set for 660-Yard Challenge

Semifinals were held at Derby Lane for the last stakes race of the year. Eight greyhounds emerged after the two semifinal heats were won. Here are the eight finalists in point order.

Kelsos Isabella 54, Lester Raines
Backwood Nan 44, Campbell
Starz Borntofly 42, D’Arcy
 TMC’s Remedy 38, Filipelli & O’Donnell
WW’s Deathvalley 34, Wayne Ward
Deco Caraways 32, D’Arcy
Kiowa AK Richpie 30, Patriot
Kiowa Knockout 30, McAllister

If a greyhound is pulled before the post draw Cal Holland's RJ's Playgirl (28) would go in.

Posts for the stakes race will be drawn Thursday night and posted here on Vera’s News along with details to enter the 660-yard challenge for a Derby Lane T-shirt and Christmas ornament.

Breaking News Monday night 7:30 PM        
Race 10 Wednesday night is a must-see race
Semifinals for the 660-yard challenge Wednesday night
Enter Vera's 660-Challenge contest to win a Derby Lane T-shirt and Derby Lane Christmas ornament.
Rules posted on Vera's News Thursday night

The races and posts for the final qualifying round for Saturday’s $75,000 final were drawn with the majority of the top point getters vying for that final set in race 10 Wednesday night. The undefeated Kelsos Isabella will match strides with #2 ranked TMC’s Remedy and #4 ranked Kiowa Knockout among the leading runners. Before they take the stage, the first semifinal heat will be held in race six. Backwood Nan has 34 points and ranks third high. She is matched with Starz Borntofly that is ranked 6^th.

Djays Octane who was sent to Derby Lane with hopes of dominating the series, has turned in two bad runs and drew in with the top dogs. He has to acquire top points to advance to the final or he will be eliminated in the tenth race. Backwood Nan is sitting pretty with 34 points and won’t be under pressure to perform in the sixth, but the rest of the field will be.

Below are Wednesday night’s semifinal races in post position order.
Semifinal 660-Yard Challenge
Race 6 Wednesday night December 16
1-Kiowa Solomon (22) Filipelli & O’Donnell
2-WW’s Revamped (18) Wayne Ward
3-Greta’s Cryhondo (19) Capabal
4-Backwood Nan (34) Campbell Greyhound Racing
5-Far Site Quicker (15) Lester Raines
6-Starz Borntofly (26) D’Arcy
7-Its Quillan (11) Wayne Ward
8-Hi Noon Harmony (19) Nova

Semifinal 660-Yard Challenge
Race 10 Wednesday night December 16
1-Deco Caraways (22) D’Arcy
2-Kelsos Isabella (48) Lester Raines
3-WW’s Deathvalley (18) Wayne Ward
4-TMC’s Remedy (35) Filipelli & O’Donnell
5-RJ’s Playgirl (20) Cal Holland
6-Kiowa AK Richpie (28) Patriot
7-Kiowa Knockout (29) McAllister
8-Djays Octane (18) Charter

Enter the 660-yard challenge contest posted on Vera’s News beginning Thursday night December 17 to win a Derby Lane T-Shirt and Derby Lane Christmas Ornament. Rules will be posted along with the posts for Saturday’s stakes race final on Thursday.

Saturday night’s third round saw Lester Raines kennel’s Kelsos Isabella continue to dominate the series and score a third set of win points to remain undefeated. Isabella was not the only Raines star to draw attention. Cold Fusion continued his winning spree over the 550-yard course for Raines. He won the photo finish against Lamorge Aces Up by a nose to record four in a row. The Tri Super Jackpot paid over $14,000 making someone’s holiday brighter.

In the stakes qualifiers Kelsos Isabella really showed what she was made of when she came from far back to score the victory in race six. Her win earned her an automatic post in next week’s stakes race final. She only has to circle the field in the semifinals this upcoming Wednesday night.

Kiowa Knockout finished second to Isabella and has bounced back nicely in the series. She kicked off the series with a fifth place, but won round two and gave a winning effort for second in round three. RJ’s Playgirl and Starz Borntofly continued their consistent money finishes. Fifth through eighth was Greta’s Cryhondo, Kiowa Solomon, Its Quillan and WW’s Deathvalley.

The tenth race saw Hi Noon Harmony take an early lead with Kiowa AK Richpie on her heels. Richpie was in a comfortable lead but could not match the charging TMC’s Remedy who scored a second set of win points that moved him into second place in the series. His victory also halted the win streak of Backwood Nan. Richpie finished second followed by Hi Noon Harmony and Deco Caraways to complete the superfecta. Djays Octane who entered the series as a favorite faded in the stretch and has now put himself in jeopardy of being eliminated in the semifinal on Wednesday. Fifth through eighth was Far Site Quicker, Backwood Nan, Djays Octane and WW’s Revamped. 　

The majority of players in the Saturday night Fantasy League sponsored by Kcimagemakers picked Kelsos Isabella and TMC's Remedy. Thank you again everyone that played and followed along on Twitter.

Below are the point totals for the semifinalists that will compete Wednesday night. The draw will be held Monday night and posted here on Vera’s News at approximately 7:15 PM, EST.
Kelsos Isabella (48) Lester Raines
TMC’s Remedy (35) Filipelli & O’Donnell
Backwood Nan (34) Campbell
Kiowa Knockout (29) McAllister
Kiowa AK Richpie (28) Patriot
Starz Borntofly (26) D’Arcy
Kiowa Solomon (22) Filipelli & O’Donnell
Deco Caraways (22) D’Arcy
RJ’s Playgirl (20) Cal Holland
Greta’s Cryhondo (19) Capabal
Hi Noon Harmony (19) Nova
WW’s Revamped (18) Wayne Ward
Djays Octane (18) Charter
WW's Deathvalley (18) Ward
Far Site Quicker (15) Lester Raines
Its Quillan (11) Wayne Ward

Races and posts have been assigned for the third round of the 660 Challenge. Shortly before the draw Filipelli & O’Donnell’s Kiowa Louis who finished fourth in round two, was taken out of the race with a minor injury. Ward kennel’s Its Quillan was reentered as the sub and gets back in the game giving Ward three semifinalists. Below is the third round draw with current point totals.

Saturday night December 12
Race 6 Round three 660-yd. Challenge
1-Kiowa Knockout (19) McAllister
2-Kiowa Soloman (20) Filipelli & O’Donnell
3-Its Quillan (10) Ward
4-RJ’s Playgirl (12) Cal Holland
5-Starz Borntofly (20) D’Arcy
6-WW’s Deathvalley (18) Ward
7-Kelsos Isabella (32), Raines
8-Greta’s Cryhondo (16) Capabal

Saturday night December 12
Race 10 Round three 660-yd. Challenge
1-Deco Caraways (16) D’Arcy
2-Kiowa AK Richpie (18) Patriot
3-Hi Noon Harmony (11) Nova
4-Djays Octane (16) Charter
5-Backwood Nan (32) Campbell
6-WW’s Revamped (18) Ward
7-Far Site Quicker (12) Raines
8-TMC’s Remedy (19) Filpelli & O’Donnell

Breaking news Wednesday night 10:15 pm

Girls lead the 660-yard Challenge

Backwood Nan and Kelsos Isabella won back to back qualifiers and are tied in the top spot heading into round three this Saturday night. Distance Classic champion TMC’s Remedy bounced back after a fifth place finish in round one to move him into the top eight. Remedy’s time of 37.50 was the fastest distance time of the night. Kiowa Knockout also bounced back after a fifth place finish in round one to win her heat. The races and post positions for the next rounds will be drawn Thursday night and posted right here for an early sneak peek at approximately 7:30 PM.

Backwood Nan, 32 points, Campbell
Kelsos Isabella, 32 points, Lester Raines
Kiowa Solomon, 20 points, Filipelli & O’Donnell
Starz Borntofly, 20 points, D’Arcy
Kiowa Knockout, 19 points, McAllister
TMC’s Remedy, 19 points, Filipelli & O’Donnell
WW’s Revamped, 18 points, Wayne Ward
Kiowa AK Rickpie, 18 points, Patriot
WW’s Deathvalley, 18 points, Wayne Ward
Djays Octane, 17 points, Charter
Greta’s Cryhondo, 16 points, Capabal
Deco Caraways, 16 points, D’Arcy
RJ’s Playgirl, 12 points, Cal Holland
Kiowa Louis, 12 points, Filipelli & O’Donnell
Far Site Quicker, 12 points, Lester Raines
Hi Noon Harmony, 11 points, Nova

Its Quillan, 10 points, Wayne Ward is the sub should any of the top sixteen be pulled.