Vera's News

Abernathy kennel seeks repeat in Matinee Idol
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Last year RK's Big Bear  won the stakes for trainer Kayruth Abernathy. Marketing Director Fran Williamson presented Kayruth the winning trophy. (photo right) This year's kennel hopeful is AHK Remember Me (5). The 64-pound female earned her post in the stakes by finishing among the top four in her qualifying heat this past Wednesday. Remember Me is one of only two females in the stakes final. Remember Me's sire Dodgem By Design won the same stakes a decade ago. A win by AHK Remember Me would consist of some racing luck, as her late speed style will be a challenge for her against the fleet-footed males.

Spry Kimbrel (2) gave an impressive performance during Wednesday's qualifying round for Campbell Greyhound Racing. Spry broke second and snatched the win away at the wire by a neck to earn his spot in the race. Spry paid $70.60 for his upset. There's no doubt he will return a large sum if he upsets again. Spry would need to be the first out of the box and far in front for a repeat win, which would be a first Idol victory for the kennel.

D'Arcy kennel's Nefarious (6) is one to watch. The 73-pound male is a slow starter that has a powerful late stride. His impressive qualifying round put a slight blemish on his undefeated run. Nefarious was seeking four in a row and overcame trouble to finish second by a nose. Nefarious will be among the favorites. In 2005 D'Arcy kennel won the stakes with Fuzzys Cannon.

And speaking of Fuzzys Cannon he sired Meacham Field (7)-a stakes finalist, too. The brindle male shot out of the box from the one box on Wednesday and was picked off at the wire. Meach gave a winning effort for Red Oak Racing that is looking for their first Matinee Idol win. Meach prefers an inside post and will take advantage of the inside whenever he can.

Tiger Boy (4) is no stranger to stakes races and is the newest to the Derby Lane oval. Three weeks ago Tiger Boy won the Inaugural stakes to kick off the New Year. The stakes champion is one of America's top athletes. His 2011 portfolio includes a victory in the World Classic stakes and two track records. Tiger Boy races with McAllister kennel that won the 2008 Matinee Idol with 2007 Derby Lane Million Champion Flying Stanley.

TMC's Pistol (3) who was last year's Inaugural runner-up and a 3rd place finisher in the Sprint Classic has made the finals of several stakes. The O'Donnell star could finally get his break. He is owned by Eddie Mc Donald that also owns 2009 Matinee Idol champion TMC's Trail Boss. Pistol was a finalist in this year's Inaugural, too and is also a son of former Idol champ Dodgem By Design.

HWJ Isabelle (1) was also in the Inaugural final three weeks ago. She is the second of the two females in the Idol stakes. Isabelle was a surprise in the Inaugural qualifiers for Hambleton kennel and paid $42.80 for her upset. She is also a late speedster that will look for an opening in the race. Her sire Stan's Boy Flyer was the track win leader and Matinee Idol champion in 2001.

Patriot kennel's Sing In The Rain (8) is one of two 80-pound males in the race. He and Pistol are the largest. Sing In The Rain will be looking for a spot to race from and can throw his weight around to achieve his goal. Smith Greyhounds owns the male and also own last year's finalist Kiowa Class King.

Some fun facts from the previous 27 Matinee Idol stakes
-Only three females have won the stakes. Kiowa Clevergirl (2007), SM Florida Gal (1991), Commanche Sue (1986).
-1992 winner MT's Saint Nick is the only fawn color Greyhound to win. HWJ Isabelle and TMC’s Pistol are both fawn.
-No Greyhound with a birthday in August has ever won an Idol. Nefarious is this year's finalist with an August birthday.
-Only one kennel has posted consecutive Matinee Idol wins. Bahama Mama kennel won the 2003 and 2004 stakes. Both with the same greyhound Cayman Went.
Fun facts compiled by Vera Rasnake and Jim Peake

Flying Marvelous will take on the fleet-footed Hallo Sangria (O’Donnell) that holds the season’s best 550-yard time. Also in the 10^th race is Abernathy kennel’s AHK Colormegone who is also a speedster that is second high in points with 40 entering the final rounds for the Saturday event. Below are the entries IN POST POSITION ORDER for the semifinal rounds.
Wednesday Night December 14 Semifinal 660-yard challenge
Race 6 IN POST POSITION ORDER
1-USS Billionaire, Raines-21 points
2-TMC’s Hero, O’Donnell-20 points
3-Fools Nitelife, D’Arcy-14 points
4-Kentucky Fire, Cal Holland-32 points
5-Storm Rush, Hambleton-30 points
6-MW Ispiperin, Alabama-20 points
7-Kiowa Powell, Patriot-11 points
8-Magic Finch, Abernathy-23 points

Wednesday Night December 14 Semifinal 660-yard challenge
Race 10-IN POST POSITION ORDER
1- Flying Big Gun, Red Oak-26 points
2-Brother Buck, D’Arcy-26 points
3-HS Rushin, Raines-14 points
4-Hallo Sangria, J. E. O'Donnell-32 points
5-AHK Colormegone, Abernathy-40 points
6-Golden Crescendo, D’Arcy 14 points
7-Flying Marvelous, McAllister-48 points
8-Angus Mcloud, Nova-14 points 

Tri-Super starts over $13,000 Monday night
Flying Marvelous remains undefeated in 660-yard series
Hi Noon Renegade makes it SEVEN STRAIGHT
Kentucky Fire holds top dog lead

Longer distance right fit for Abernathy athlete
Click on the story from the St. Petersburg Times
http://www.tampabay.com/sports/parimutuels/longer-distance-proves-right-fit-for-abernathy-kennel-dog/1205623

The Tri-Super jackpot is swelling and will begin at $13,176 Monday night. The Tri-Super is played in races 5 and 7. Derby Lane’s 2011 meet will conclude on Saturday night December 31. All jackpots will be forced out that night.

McAllister kennel’s Flying Marvelous (Kiowa Sweet Trey x Flying Midnite) won her third consecutive 660-yard qualifier in the 660-Yard Distance Challenge series. Flying Marvelous held off all pressure recording three in a row and her 15^th win of the year. Her record to date is 32/15-4-3-1 for the year.

Nova kennel’s Hi Noon Renegade (Dodgem By Design x Bryan’s Baby) continued his winning ways Saturday night streaking his way to seven in a row and his 37^th win this year. Renegade is arguably the top sprinter in the nation and is a serious candidate for All-America Team Captain. Regardless of status one can not argue how impressive Renegade is despite having missed three months of competition.

Before Marvelous’ flawless run Cal Holland kennel’s Kentucky Fire (Dragon Fire x RK’s Tomb Raider) kept her top dog status as the season win leader by scoring her 17^th win since July. The 60-pound female who is also a contender in the 660-Yard Challenge scored top points in her heat moving her in a two-way tie for third place with 32 points. The last qualifying rounds will be held Wednesday night December 14 where the top eight will move to this year’s final on December 17.
 

Hi Noon Renegade continues streak
Nova kennel’s historic hound Hi Noon Renegade continued his winning spree and continues to be one of the nation’s top 550-yard greyhounds this year. Renegade’s highly impressive portfolio that includes his historic Gold Trophy and Spring Classic victories this year along with a current record of 36 wins in 56 starts. His current stats for 2011 are 56/36-10-5-1. Kennel owner Hans Limmer and trainer Rosa Gibbs brought Renegade back slowly when the male suffered a minor injury three months ago. Since his return Hi Noon Renegade (Dodgem By Design x Bryan’s Baby) has remained undefeated and seeks seven in a row in race 12 Saturday night December 10 and a 37^th win for the year keeping him among the nation’s top dogs.

Other news: In the race for the kennel title trainer Doug Flint of the Hambleton kennel is one win in front of the McAllister kennel who has 238 wins with 1332 starts. Hambleton is 239 wins out of 1703. Red Oak is in third with 227 wins followed by Patriot (210) and D’Arcy (195) rounds out the top five.

Round three of the 660-yard challenge will be held in races 6 and 10 Saturday December 10^th. Two greyhounds are undefeated but one of their records will fall as AHK Colormegone (Abernathy) and Flying Marvelous (McAllister) have drawn in the same 10^th race.

 Colormegone and Marvelous score repeat wins in round two of 660-yard challenge
Round 3 is Saturday December 10

The second round of the 660-yard challenge was held Wednesday night. Abernathy’s fleet footed female Ahk Colormegone (Fuzzys Cannon x Fuzzys Cessna) scored another box to wire win becoming the first of two to repeat in the qualifying rounds. Abernathy kennel’s second entry Magic Finch who finished fifth, scored enough points advancing to round three. McAllister kennel’s Flying Marvelous (Kiowa Sweet Trey x Flying Midnite) also repeated her last start in box to wire fashion tying Colormegone with the high 32 points. McAllister’s other entry Flying Carne’s seventh place finish in round one and fourth in round two did not give him enough points to advance.

J. E. O’Donnell’s Hallo Sangria (Trent Lee x Kiowa High Hand) took full advantage of the rail post and went box to wire upsetting round one winner Storm Rush. Hallo Sangria was the third female to win in the second round series. O’Donnell’s second entry TMC’s Hero also advanced to the third round. The final heat of the night was an all-male field. Lester Raines USS Billionaire came from behind to win the race putting him in the top ten for the next two rounds. A clean cut with 11 points and above advanced the sweet sixteen. Red Oak kennel’s Flying Richwine who scored 10 points is the sub if one is needed.
Sweet 16 in point order
AHK Colormegone, Abernathy-32 points
Flying Marvelous, McAllister-32 points
Hallo Sangria, J. E. O’Donnell-26 points
Storm Rush, Hambleton- 24 points
MW Ispiperin, Alabama-19 points
TMC’s Hero, J.E. O’Donnell-18 points
USS Billionair, Lester Raines-18 points
Flying Big Gun, Red Oak-18 points
Brother Buck, D’Arcy-16 points
Kentucky Fire, Cal Holland-16 points
HS Rushin, Lester Raines-14 points
Magic Finch, Abernathy-13 points
Angus Mcloud, Nova-13 points
Fools Nitelife, D’Arcy-12 points
Golden Crescendo, D’Arcy-11 points
Kiowa Powell, Patriot-11 points
Substitute if needed is Flying Richwine, Red Oak-10 points

The second round of the 660-Yard Challenge will be held Wednesday night December 7
Hi Noon Renegade seeks win number 36 this year

All over the nation people will be reflecting back 70 years ago to December 7, 1941. Many were not born then, but through history lessons and family conversations Pearl Harbor will be revisited on Wednesday. While many will be focusing on the past the "derby dogs" will be generating their own historical event. Round two of the $75,000 stakes race will be held Wednesday night. The original field of 32 competed last Saturday night in the first round. Patriot kennel’s Kay On With It was sidelined and pulled from the entries, which narrowed the field and caused a seven-dog field in race six.

Before that field vies for points the fourth race will begin the second round. AHK Colormegone who won the first round hopes to pull off another box to wire victory for Aberanthy. The sixth race features Distance Classic champ Magic Finch (also with Abernathy) going "paw to paw" with the blazing Kentucky Fire (Holland). McAllister kennel’s Flying Marvelous that scored an easy box to wire win likes her six post. She won round one from the same post.

Storm Rush (Hambleton) won the St. Pete Derby and gave a spectacular first round performance by turning it on in the homestretch. She is the program favorite from post eight. The final qualifier will be held in race ten where no first round winner drew. This race is wide open and could help a couple of the lower point entries. Following the running of race ten the points will be tallied and only sixteen from the four heats will advance for the two semifinal rounds.

Nova kennel’s Hi Noon Renegade is also back on track and hopes to steal the show again as the male goes for six in a row and his 36^th win of the year. Renegade’s record is impressive despite a two-month layoff. Hi Noon Renegade will be featured in race 13 and boasts 55/35-10-5-1 for the year over the 550-yard course.

Round one in the books

The first round of the 660-Yard Challenge is in the Derby Lane stakes book. St Petersburg Derby Champion Storm Rush scored top points and clocked the fastest first round time of 37.73 seconds for Hambleton Racing. MW Ispiperin of the Alabama kennel paid $52.60 for his upset victory over the betting favorite Flying Carne in race six. Abernathy’s AHK Colormegone kicked off the first of the four heats with a win. The betting favorite paid $5.80 for her victory. A two-way tie for fourth place between Jack’s Storm and Venus Basaldua resulted in a 4.5 point allocation for each greyhound. McAllister kennel’s Flying Marvelous who was also a bet favorite scored the win in box to wire fashion in race eight.
Round two will be Wednesday night December 7 when 16 of the stakes entries will advance to the two semifinals that will produce the top eight for this year’s final on December 17. Below are the results of round one in point order. The round two draw will be held Monday night and posted on Vera’s News following the draw.
Round one point totals:
AHK Colormegone, Abernathy-16 points
MW Ispiperin, Alabama Racing-16 points
Storm Rush, Hambleton-16 points
Flying Marvelous, McAllister-16 points
Magic Finch, Abernathy-10 points
TMC’s Hero, J. E. O’Donnell-10 points
Hallo Sangria, J. E. O’Donnell-10 points
Angus Mcloud, Nova-10 points
Brother Buck, D’Arcy-8 points
HS Rushin, Lester Raines-8 points
Flying Big Gun, Red Oak-8 points
Kiowa Powell, Patrior-8 points
Kentucky Fire, Cal Holland-6 points
Fools Nitelife, D’Arcy-6 points
Hallo Glacken, J. E. O’Donnell-6 points
Jack’s Storm, Cal Holland-4.5 points
Venus Basaldua, Patriot-4.5 points
Atascocita Mort, Alderson-3 points
Starz Brave One, Alderson-3 points
OK Barry, Capabal-3 points
Hag Oswalt, Alderson-2 points
For The Fold, Lester Raines-2 points
USS Billionair, Lester Raines-2 point
Honestly, Floyd & Porter-2 points
Kay On With It, Patriot-1 point
Flying Carne, McAllister-1 point
KB’s Well Wisher, Hambleton-1 point
Golden Crescendo, D’Arcy-1 point
Hel’s Chance, Campbell- 0 points
Dancin Rainmain, Nova- 0 points
Flying Richwine, Red Oak- 0 points
Flying Vian, Red Oak – 0 points

Kiowa Tori Tech 
goes for nine straight Friday night
Hi Noon Renegade seeks five straight Saturday Night
Greyhounds go the distance in first round of 660-Yard Challenge Saturday Night
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 Kiowa Tori Tech goes for 8 straight Saturday matinee
McAllister kennel's Kiowa Tori Tech (Dragon Fire x Flying Torre) has been dominating the 550-yard oval and will see his eight consecutive top grade win in race 10 Saturday afternoon. Approximate post time is 3:06 pm, est.
Stakes Champs compete Saturday night
The big guns are out Saturday night and some are prepping for next week's first round of the $75,000 660-Yard Challenge stakes, which is the final stakes of 2011. First round is Saturday night December 3. Fall Juvenile Champion JW Rapid Strike is the program favorite who drew post one in race 9. The youngster faces a rising star Maria Mandalena (O'Donnell kennel) that is going for four in a row on her way to the top grade.
Hi Noon Renegade (Nova kennel) returned after a three-month layoff and is seeking three in a row in race 10 Saturday night. Renegade won the Sprint Classic and the Gold Trophy Juvenile. He drew post four with an approximate race post time of 10:11 PM.
St. Pete Derby champion Storm Rush (Hambleton) is prepping for the 660-yard stakes. Storm Rush clocked a blistering 37.16 in her Nov. 23 distance race leaving her rivals in a nine and a half-length romp. She drew the coveted rail post in race 12 that runs as approximately 10:45 PM. Storm Rush faces off with Distance Classic and Derby Consolation champion Magic Finch (Abernathy) who hopes to sing a winning tune and score a third distance stakes title this year.
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The semifinal of the Fall Juvenile was held Wednesday night and eight greyhounds emerged as this year’s contenders. The 5^th annual stakes will be race 8 Saturday night November 12. Capabal kennel’s SE’s Chewie and D’Arcy kennel’s Sand Cloud both finished with the high points of 56 each. St. Petersburg Derby champion Storm Rush finished sixth high with 32 points in front of her kennelmate Makers Bark, both from Hambleton Racing kennel. Post positions for the stakes will be drawn Thursday night November 10 in the Racing Office and posted  immediately following. Should there be a scratch before posts are drawn D’Arcy kennel’s Perfect Sound and McAllister’s Flying Carne would vie for the slot in a draw by lot.

Read 'em and weep
Final qualifying rounds and posts have been drawn. Early peek below
Round #4 Fall Juvenile Qualifier
Wednesday night November 9
Race 6
1-Spry Kimbrel, Campbell Greyhound-24 points
2-Flying Carne, McAllister-23 points
3-Herecomethepain, Floyd & Porter-22 points
4-Perfect Sound, D'Arcy-20 points
5-Flying Big Gun, Red Oak Racing-21 points
6-Storm Rush, Hambleton-24 points
7-SE's Chewie, Capabal-40 points
8-Atascocita Davia, Alderson-23 points
Round #4 Fall Juvenile Qualifier
Wednesday night November 9
Race 10
1-Hi Noon Hardfast, Nova-18 points
2-Makers Bark, Hambleton-23 points
3-Flying Marvelous, McAllister-38 points
4-Hallo Pac A Sack, J. E. O'Donnell-9 points
5-Craigie I Am Jak, Campbell Greyhound-22 points
6-JW Rapid Strike, Capabal-25 points
7-Sand Cloud, D'Arcy-40 Points
8-Kentucky Blue, Cal Holland-24 points

Kentucky Fire is new "top dog"
Sand Cloud & SE's Chewie in two-way tie heading into Semifinals of Fall Juvenile Wednesday night November 9

The race for the "top dog" status saw Kentucky Fire (Cal Holland kennel) score her sixth win of her past seven starts moving her one ahead as the season win leader. She collected her 15th win of the meet breaking the two-way tie for the top slot with JW Titleist (Capabal) that finished second in the matinee. Kentucky Fire boasts an 84% money finish this meet.

Flying Marvelous (McAllister) and SE's Chewie (Capabal) scored top points in the third round of the Fall Juvenile. Marvelous beat the betting favorite Storm Rush in race six and paid $8.80 to win. In race 10, SE's Chewie halted Sand Cloud's win streak to score top points and pay $17.20 for the win. The final round will be held Wednesday night where the top eight will become this year's finalists.

Breeders' Cup Highlights
Choice of the Voice: Breeders Cup Weekend starts off this Friday with 6 Breeders Cup races..Its ladies day, the $500,000 Juvenile Sprint (Males) starts things off .A new addition (6 F) This race has field of 8. CHOICE: (6) Secert Circle..This Baffert horse has not lost a race and should start the day off with a win for that stable..$1 Million Juvenile Fillies Turf (1 mile) is next. Trainer Todd Plelcher has two entries (6) Sweet Cat & Stopshoppingmaria. The latter is he fastest dirt philly of the year (102 beyer) CHOICE: One of those 2 should do it. $1 Million Filly & Mare Sprint (7 F) CHOICE: (3) Turbulent Descent Looks the one to beat here..First time against older Horses....$2 Million Juvenile Fillies (1 1/16th) CHOICE: (5) Grace Hall . Has been 2 turns and crushed field...$2 Million Filly & Mare Turf ( 1 3/8ths) CHOICE: (5) Nahrain Overseas shipper (FR) Looks ready to roll here.. They come across the pond to take this. Rapping up Friday will be The $2 million Ladies Classic (1 1/8th).CHOICE: Mott has one here (6) Royal Delta Her daddy was a fast one (Empire Maker). First Post at Churchill is at 2pm. First Breeders Cup race Appx 4pm

Then we move to Saturday. 9 Breeders Cup races: Start in off with The $500,000 Marathon (1 3/4) Longest race of the day CHOICE: Mott has another (6) Birdrun. Like 2nd off layoff here. $1 Million Juvenile Turf (1mile) CHOICE:(13) Finale. Pletcher trains this one, 3 for 3 since switching to turf. $1.5 Million Sprint (6F) CHOICE (5) Jackson Bend. Zito should have this one ready to roll.$1 Million Turf Sprint (5F) CHOICE: (10) Havelock has won last 3 turf sprints. $$ here. $1 Million Dirt Mile: CHOICE: My horse here (1) The Factor..Love this horse here, Baffert , Wire to wire! $3 Million Turf (1 1/2)...CHOICE: (2) Sarafina..Another overseas invader, Case of female taking on boys. $2 Million Juvenile (1 1/16th) CHOICE: (10) Union Rags (Best Bet)..M.Maker has this one sharp and ready to roll $$$. $2 Million Mile (Turf) CHOICE: (1) Goldikova Going for 4 straight Breeders Cup win at mile. Finally $5 Million Classic (1 1/4) CHOICE: Hard to go against (12) Uncle Mo but I am. (13) To Honor and Serve, Mott's Big day ends with a upset here.

Fall Juvenile third round ready to go
Sand Cloud seeks undefeated run in race 10 Saturday night
Choice of the Voice highlights Breeders' Cup in tomorrow's news
The third round for the $20,000 Fall Juvenile stakes has been drawn. O'Donnell kennel's Hallo Pac A Sac won the draw by lot in the three-way tie for the final slot in the field. Points will continue to accumulate on the sweet sixteen seeking wins in races six and ten Saturday. St. Pete Derby Champion Storm Rush is featured in race six and Fall Sprint champion Craigie I Am Jak will go "paw to paw" with the undefeated Sand Cloud in race ten.
Round # 3 Fall Juvenile Saturday November 5
Race 6 - In post position order
1-Spry Kimbrel, Campbell
2-Perfect Sound, D'Arcy
3-Flying Marvelous, McAllister
4-Storm Rush, Hambleton
5-Hi Noon Hardfast, Nova
6-Kentucky Blue, Cal Holland
7-JW Rapid Strike, Capabal
8-Flying Big Gun, Red Oak
Round # 3 Fall Juvenile Saturday November 5
Race 10 - In post position order
1-Craigie I Am Jak, Campbell
2-Hallo Pac A Sac, O'Donnell
3-Atascocita Davia, Alderson
4-SE's Chewie, Capabal
5-Herecomesthepain, Floyd & Porter
6-Flying Carne, McAllister
7-Makers Bark, Hambleton
8-Sand Cloud, D'Arcy

D’Arcy kennel’s Sand Cloud undefeated in Fall Juvenile
Round two of the Fall Juvenile was held Wednesday night. Sand Cloud (Kiowa Sweet Trey x Dreamy Blossom) was the only double winner to advance to round three this Saturday night. The daughter of All-American Dreamy Blossom is also undefeated since her return to racing after an OOP in the stakes final of last month’s Fall Sprint. Fifteen (15) greyhounds advanced to the semifinals. A draw by lot between the three greyhounds with 9 points each (see below) will be held in the Racing office prior to the races and post draw Thursday night.
Sweet Sixteen (16) for Fall Juvenile Round #3 Saturday
Sand Cloud, D’Arcy-32 points
SE’s Chewie, Capabal-24 points
JW Rapid Strike, Capabal-24 points
Storm Rush, Hambleton-22 points
Flying Marvelous, McAllister-22 points
Makers Bark, Hambleton-22 points
Flying Carne, McAllister-20 points
Herecomethepain, Floyd & Porter, 20 points
Flying Big Gun, Red Oak-18 points
Hi Noon Hardfast, Nova-18 points
Atascocita Davia, Alderson-17 points
Kentucky Blue, Cal Holland-16 points
Spry Kimbrel, Campbell Greyhound-14 points
Perfect Sound, D’Arcy-14 points
Craigie I Am Jak, Campbell-12 points

THREE WAY TIE FOR THE LAST SLOT
Hallo My Pac, O’Donnell-9 points
Frizzell, Lester Raines-9 points
Hallo Pac A Sac, O’Donnell-9 points

Craigie I Am Jak and Storm Rush headline first round of Fall Juvenile
GPA Annual Picnic Sunday October 30 featuring the wedding of Wilbur and Weezie
Sunday October 30 at Philippe Park, Safety Harbor, FL. Shelter #6. click on the link for all the information including Greyhound adoption.
http://www.greyhoundpets.com/index.php

Saturday night October 29 will be the first round of the Fall Juvenile stakes. Craigie I Am Jak (Campbell) who won the Fall Sprint three weeks ago and St. Petersburg Derby champion Storm Rush (Hambleton) is among the headliners. Storm Rush who just turned two years old last month was also a Fall Sprint finalist. Craigie I Am Jak kicked off the season as the win leader during the entire month of July. Jak’s racing style that is similar to Rush’s has thrilled fans that have watched Jak break, drop back and pour it on in the homestretch.

Both greyhounds have major stakes wins under their belts and are hoping to wrap up the year with another trophy. D’Arcy kennel’s Sand Cloud is also among the entries. Sand Cloud was a finalist in the Fall Sprint and broke sharply, but jammed in the first turn and fell. The 60-pound female was rested and won her schooler and first start back.

Lester Raines kennel is seeking a fourth consecutive Juvenile title. This year’s entries are littermates Frizzell in race four and Felicitate in race eight. The Fall Juvenile final will be held Saturday night November 12^th.
Other news: Derby Lane entry Kiowa Mind Mia (Kiowa Sweet Trey x Flying Minden) is the only outside entry to qualify for the $50,000 Hecht Marathon that will be held at Flagler Sunday night October 30.

Join the Kcimagemakers Greyhound League and play along with a world wide group of greyhound fans. It’s fun, free and easy to play. Click the link for more information.
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Fiery female Kentucky Fire in the news
By Don Jensen, Times Correspondent
In Print: Saturday, October 22, 2011
Slow starter takes her place in front
ST. PETERSBURG — Kentucky Fire isn't big on first impressions. She didn't stand out on a farm in Colorado. Nor was she particularly special upon her arrival at Derby Lane. Now look at her. Click on link for full story
http://www.tampabay.com/sports/parimutuels/slow-starting-greyhound-takes-her-place-in-front-at-derby-lane/1198056

McAllister pulling away in standings
The McAllister kennel continues to pull away from their rivals in the kennel standings. The kennel is nearly 20 wins in front and could wrap up the back half of the year in first place for the Tampa at Derby Lane meet. McAllister kennel recently retired Flying Coal City who won all the Industry awards for 2010. The kennel is gearing up for the Fall Juvenile stakes that begins October 29th. Another kennel preparing for the stakes is the Lester Raines kennel that will be looking to win the stakes for a fourth consecutive year. The kennels have another week to decide which of their star juveniles will represent their kennel in the fifth annual stakes. The race final will be held in race eight on Saturday night November 12th.

Craigie I Am Jak in the News
Saturday October 8, 2011
Craigie I Am Jak erases deficits with energy, excitement and an enormous surge at the end. Click on link for full story
http://www.tampabay.com/sports/parimutuels/come-from-behind-style-keeps-greyhound-in-the-running/1195831

Animal activist group Grey2K linked to Fed arrest
http://www.timesleaderonline.com/page/content.detail/id/533691/Maloney--Grey2K-linked-to-fed-arrest.html?nav=5010

Craigie I Am Jak wins Fall Sprint
Campbell Greyhound Racing's 20-month old male Craigie I Am Jak, the son of Lonesome Cry x Craigie Crimson avoided the first turn collision and came off the pace in his unique style to score the victory in the $50,000 Fall Sprint stakes. Racing Secretary Jerry Miller presented the plaque to kennel owner James Campbell. The rest of the party from L to R: Michael Crum, Kevin Campbell, Brandy Glaspey (trainer) owners Michelle and Tammy Edgar and Michelle's father James Edgar who purchased Jak at the spring NGA auction for $2,500.  Leadout Alberto Castro presented the champion Craigie I Am Jak on the winner's stand. Congratulations to everyone associated with this champion and to John Boyd of OK that raised the pup. 

USS Gazillionair enters 5th stakes final, Aerial Battle the early favorite, Craigie I Am Jak has the youth and more in today's St. Pete Times Fall Sprint article.
ST. PETERSBURG — They will walk in unison to the starting box tonight and wait for it to open. For the greyhounds in the fifth annual $50,000 Fall Sprint championship, that will be one of the few similarities. Click on link for full story
http://www.tampabay.com/sports/parimutuels/derby-lanes-fall-sprint-final-kicks-off-season-for-stakes-races/1194667

Choice of the VOICE highlights Thoroughbreds to watch
Join the Kcimagemakers Greyhound League and play along with a world wide group of greyhound fans. It’s fun, free and easy to play. Click the link for more information.
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Posts Drawn for $50,000 Fall Sprint - Full story tomorrow
$50,000 Fall Sprint
Race 10 Saturday night October 1
IN POST POSITION ORDER
1-Sand Cloud (Kiowa Sweet Trey x Dreamy Blossom) 32 points - D'Arcy kennel
2-Aerial Battle (Dodgem By Design x Abita Cruzin) 51 points - Capabal kennel
3-AHK Colormegone (Fuzzys Cannon x Fuzzys Cessna) 38 points - Abernathy kennel
4-Storm Rush (Kiowa Mon Manny x Sizzler Drive) 40 points - Hambleton Racing
5-JW Titleist (Dave The Dog x Abita Cruzin) 31 points - Capabal kennel
6-USS Gazillionair (USS Raceway x Greys Torrington) 42 points - Lester Raines kennel
7-Craigie I Am Jak (Lonesome Cry x Craigie Crimson) 56 points-Campbell Greyhound Racing
8-Manicotti Manny (Farloe Black* x Kay V Sonar Trey) 28 points - Hambleton Racing

Congratulations Tampa Bay Rays
It's Playoff Time!
The Rays make history, rallying from a 7-1 deficit to beat the Yankees 8-7 in 12 innings and earn the AL Wild Card! Congrats Rays.
http://www.tampabay.com/sports/

Flying Coal City under pressure Wednesday for stakes repeat
Flying Bagels scratched from Fall Sprint Semi
Twin Trifecta Jackpot is forced out EVERY WEDNESDAY NIGHT

2011 Fall Sprint Sweet Sixteen Semifinalists
Draw to be held Monday night at 6:30 pm, est in the Racing Secretary’s office
1-USS Gazillionair, Lester Raines-40 points
2-Craigie I Am Jak, Campbell Greyhound-40 points
3-Aerial Battle, Capabel-35 points
4-Sand Cloud, D’Arcy-32 points
5-Storm Rush, Hambleton-30 points
6-AHK Colormegone, Abernathy-28 points
7-JW Titleist, Capabal-28 points
8-Flying Coal City, McAllister-26 points
9-Manicotti Manny, Hambleton-20 points
10-Magic Bagels, Abernathy-19 points
11-Sovereign Gold, D’Arcy-18 points
12-Hi Noon Rogue, Nova-17 points
13-M’s Glaze Fancy, Floyd & Porter-16 points
14-Flying Carne, McAllister-15 points
15-Venus Espinosa, Patriot-13 points
16-Kiowa Lazy Lazy, Lester Raines-12 point

Capabal scores pair of stakes qualifying wins with JW Titleist and Aerial Battle
Round two is Wednesday night September 21
Monday night’s round two draw will be posted for an early look at approximately 7:30 pm, est Monday night
First round Fall Sprint highlighted in St. Petersburg Times, click link for the full story
http://www.tampabay.com/sports/parimutuels/fall-sprint-at-derby-lane-could-be-finale-for-track-favorites/1192039

The first round of the Fall Sprint is in the books. Capabal kennel’s outstanding sprinters JW Titleist who is the current win leader and the undefeated Aerial Battle 2010 Matinee Idol winner scored top points for the kennel. Lester Raines’ 2010 Fall Juvenile winner USS Gazillionair and Campbell Greyhound Racing’s Craigie I Am Jak were first round winners.

Race four kicked off the series with Peak Performance rocketing out of the box. He went "paw to paw"with USS Gazillionair until the backstretch. Gazillionair pulled away from Peak and took charge to score the top points. Peak’s wide stretch was costly forcing the male to finish sixth. Manicotti Manny closed for second along with Flying Carne that improved throughout for third. Lonesome Jeremy completed the superfecta. Kentucky Fire, Peake Performance, Freethrow Jordan and Rosebelle finished fifth through eighth.

Craigie I Am Jak was the betting favorite in race six that did not disappoint over last year’s stakes defender Flying Coal City. Jak gave an incredible performance as he was last in the turn and first at the wire. His come from behind win was sensational and jammed up the video archives as fans rewatched the male score the victory. Scooter Wagz enjoyed a brief early lead before Hi Noon Rage stole the front and gave a winning performance until being overtaken in the homestretch by Jak. Coal City was pinched early and rallied from a sixth place to finish second followed by Venus Espinosa and Hi Noon Rage completing the superfecta. Fifth through eighth went to Hallo Sangira, AHK Colormegone, Wannabeacowboy and Scooter Wagz.

No surprise in race eight as the track win leader JW Titleist, who was featured in the St. Petersburg Times Saturday, broke on top and pulled away from the field to win his 13^th race in 19 starts. Titleist boasts 19-13-2-1-2 for the meet. Storm Rush also raced impressively as the dual-distance female rallied from last to a blazing second in the homestretch. Sovereign Gold was third and KB’s Spin To Win finished fourth. Hi Noon Rogue, Mesa Backstop, Wink For Pink and Gonewild Brady completed the field in that order.

Aerial Battle was the betting favorite in the tenth race, which wrapped up the first round. The male shot out on top leaving the field in his wake to clock a sizzling 30.47-the fastest first round time. Aerial Battle was arguably a Team II All-American who could make his nay sayers take another look at the undefeated star. Sand Cloud was also a favorite with Battle and scored the second place points followed by M’s Glaze Fancy, Magic Bagels, Kiowa Lazy Lazy, Backwood Cody, TMC’s Pistol and Sing In Church in that order. The second round is Wednesday night September 21. The field will be sliced to 16.
 

Flying Coal City set to defend title in Fall Sprint Saturday Night September 17
Choice Of The Voice highlights Horse Racing's stakes races this weekend
Can you pick our winners? Enter your picks in the Fantasy Greyhound League

JW Titleist competes in race 12 post 8 Saturday night. Read about the Capable kennel star in the St. Pete Times. Click for link
http://www.tampabay.com/sports/parimutuels/trouble-with-turns-gone-greyhound-becomes-a-winner-at-derby-lane/1190794

Fight Update: ROD won his pro fight Friday night by knocking out his opponent in under 2 minutes. Congratulations Rod

Good Luck Pro Boxer Radivoje (Rod) Kalajdzic from everyone here at Derby Lane
This weekend’s Horse news – Choice of the Voice
Pick your winners in the KCImagemakers game

Alabama Kennel gains traction at Derby Lane
Story in 9/3 St. Pete Times
Click link for full story
http://www.tampabay.com/sports/parimutuels/new-kennel-gaining-traction-at-derby-lane-in-st-petersburg/1189540

Storm Rush rebounds with season's bestNew feature:
CHOICE OF THE VOICE:
Enter your Saturday picks for Fantasy Greyhound-How well can you pick a winner?
Cash Giveaway during special Monday Matinee Sept. 5 Labor Day performance. No live racing Monday night. Simulcast and Poker only.

Storm Rush "shanghaied"
McAllister holds top kennel reign for now
Peetie wins weekly Fantasy Game
Tri Super over $7,300 – played in races 5 & 7

Derby champion Storm Rush seeking four in a row Saturday
New feature: Choice of the Voice highlights Derby Lane horse simulcasts
Play Derby Lane Fantasy Greyhounds

Storm Rush cinches threepeat
Patriot's Ringoffire wins big
JW Titleist rebounds for win

Twin Trifecta jackpot forced out every Wednesday night
Storm Rush and JW Titleist among notables for Wednesday doubleheader

The Twin Trifecta jackpot is forced out every Wednesday night for players to have a shot at mid-week cash. The wager is placed in race 11. Fans that select the correct three finishers in the trifecta get a shot at the jackpot in race 13 by also picking the correct three finishers in that trifecta.

The season is about to get a whole lot busier with stakes races on the horizon. Next month the Fall Sprint will begin September 17 and conclude October 1. Following the sprint the juveniles will take center stage with the Fall Juvenile followed by the distance athletes vying for the 660-yard challenge in December.
Wednesday Matinee
Race 3: Cal Holland kennel debut's Kentucky Yonder in his first maiden start. Yonder won both schoolers impressively and could kick off his career with a win.
Race 4:D'Arcy kennel's Golden Crescendo is seeking the hat trick. He is among the littermates from USS Raceway and Greys Touch Gold. He has recorded 10 money finishes of his 13 career starts.
Race 5: Soveriegn Beauty is a female making her maiden debut from D'Arcy kennel. Beauty's mother is the 2006 Million Dollar stakes winner Greys Calibrator who collected a cool half-million for her victory in that stakes.
Race 6: RC Metro Jethro recently schooled and won his first start back for Capabal and is seeking a repeat win.
Race 9: SE's Chewie won big his last start. The youngster competes in his eighth official start for the Capabal kennel. He went box to wire by 12 lengths from post one his last race. Today he breaks from the 5 box.
Race 10: Venus Espinosa from Patriot kennel is seeking his fifth win in seven starts in the top grade.
Race 12: Schnitt "the big dog" as announcer Jim Peake would say ran second last week in his return race after nearly three months off. Fans love the big dog that has a set weight of 89 pounds in the Capabal kennel.
Wednesday Night
Race 2: Boc's Ice Cube is a Southland import who will course his first distance race tonight for the Red Oak Racing kennel.
Race 3: Topaz Desertdoll is debuting in maiden tonight for Magic City-Mighty Fine. She poured it on in the homestretch to win her last schooler before her debut tonight.
Race 5: Hallo Cool Cobra is overdue for a victory. The four year-old could pull off the win in the first half of the Tri Super tonight for the J. E. O'Donnell, Jr. kennel.
Race 6: Grady Judd (Floyd & Porter) who is named after Sheriff Judd that gets things done in Polk County, is pitted against USS Gazillionair (Raines). The two should be favorites in the race. Backwood Cody (Campbell Greyhound Racing) should be a heavy favorite. He is seeking a fourth win in seven starts and boasts a perfect 12 of 12 in the money finishes this season.
Race 8: St. Pete Derby Champion Storm Rush is going for the hat trick over the 660-yard course. The precious pup is also expected to switch gears for the upcoming Fall Sprint for the Hambleton kennel.
Race 10: The top McAllister kennel's Flying Lahinch posted back to back box to wire wins from the outside seven post. He should continue his streak when he breaks from the eight post tonight for three in a row.
Race 11: JW Titleist who reeled off three in a row for Capabal is currently the top dog with 8 wins for the meet. The male will compete against D'Arcy's Sand Cloud who is going for three in a row in the top grade tonight. Flying Killerbee hopes to sting the field and post a seventh win in 12 starts for McAllister.

Double Rainbow adds to McAllister luck
Derby Lane will race Matinee only on Labor Day Monday September 5

Fans attending the Saturday night August 20 races at Derby Lane were treated to championship Greyhound racing, delicious Derby Club dining and Poker tournaments under a beautiful double rainbow (photo right by Richard Winning). Many attending the races expressed that it was a sign of good luck and for the McAllister kennel that won the top grade sixth race with their prominent pup Flying Killerbee and the eighth race with the 660-yard female Flying Moonlite wrapped up the week with 13 wins. McAllister extended his top reign in the kennel standings and starts Monday night's races on top by eight in front of the new Hambleton kennel who is nipping at McAllister's heels. Patriot and Red Oak kennel are tied in third place with 69 wins each and J. E. O'Donnell, Jr. kennel completes the top five with 61 wins.

Labor Day is Monday September 5. Derby Lane will offer live action races and a cash giveaway during the matinee only. Simulcast races and Poker will continue during the evening hours. Fans 18 years and older may enter the cash drawings. Ten fans will win $250 each during drawings after the first ten races of the Labor Day matinee. One entry per person that is good for all ten drawings. Along with the cash giveaway the concession specials will include hotdogs, hamburgers and ice cream cups selling for .99 each during the matinee performance only.

Hambleton kennel heading to the top
Tri Super Jackpot starts over $16,000 Friday Night and is played in races 5 & 7

Storm Rush repeats
Craigie I Am Jak upsets
Kentucky Fire favorite again
Tri Super Jackpot starts over $15,000 Thursday night

Wednesday night's races were full of talent and many fan favorites scored the win. St. Pete Derby champion Storm Rush (Kiowa Mon Manny x Sizzler Drive) repeated her win over the 660-yard course. Storm Rush (photo right) proudly posed for her winner's circle in June. The dual distance female nosed out the betting favorite Flying Moonlite to give Hambleton kennel the win. Hambleton's racers closed the gap for the top spot against McAllister kennel. Storm Rush is eligible for next month's Fall Sprint and will also be eligible for the 660-yard challenge in December.

Campbell Greyhound Racing's Craigie I Am Jak (Lonesome Cry x Craigie Crimson) paid $20.40 in his upset over Hi Noon Renegade in the first half of the Twin Trifecta Wednesday night. Jak started the new meet with a string of wins that landed him on the top of the win list during the first month of the meet.

Cal Holland kennel's Kentucky Fire (Dragon Fire x RK's Tomb Raider) went box to wire as the betting favorite for a fourth consecutive start. The speedy female previously held the season's best time over the 660-yard course. Fire is also a dual distance athlete who is also eligible for two of the next three stakes races this year.

The Tri Super Jackpot has swelled to over $13,000. The wager is placed in race 5. Fans selecting the correct combination of the first three finishers in race 5 will get an exchange ticket to select the superfecta finish (top four) in race seven for a shot at the jackpot. The Twin Trifecta is forced out every Wednesday night for a little mid-week cash. Fans select the top three finishers in race 11 and winners receive an exchange ticket for race 13. If no winners were selected there will be a consolation payout.

Tri Super Jackpot starts at $13,516 Wednesday Matinee August 17
Twin Trifecta forced out every Wednesday night-starts over $4,5000 Wednesday Matinee
Cover Dog Hi Noon Renegade competes Wednesday night
Derby Lane will race matinee only on Labor Day Monday

The Tri Super Jackpot has swelled to over $13,000. The wager is placed in race 5. Fans selecting the correct combination of the first three finishers in race 5 will get an exchange ticket to select the superfecta finish (top four) in race seven for a shot at the jackpot. The Twin Trifecta is forced out every Wednesday night for a little mid-week cash. Fans select the top three finishers in race 11 and winners receive an exchange ticket for race 13. If no winners were selected there will be a consolation payout.

The historic Hi Noon Renegade from Nova kennel is back on track Wednesday night in race 11, which is the first half of the Twin Trifecta. Renegade will break from the two post against McAllister kennel's rising star Flying Killerbee. Also in the race is Craigie I Am Jak who started the new meet with a string of wins. The eleventh race is full of speed that also includes M's Krazy Guy who has a good percentage rate from the eight post that he will compete from.

Other news: Hambleton kennel is making a strong bid for the top spot. The new kennel is currently in second place and is closing the gap on the top McAllister kennel. 

Mark your calendar for Monday September 5. Derby Lane will be racing a matinee only and will feature food specials and Cash Giveaway. Gates open 11:30. First post 12:30 pm.

Renegade wins again
Storm Rush going the distance
Tri Super over $10,800 for Monday night

Derby Lane's cover athlete Hi Noon Renegade beat a stellar field of top grade athletes Saturday night August 13 to score a seventh win of the meet and move one win behind top dog JW Titleist who was also among the field. Renegade broke on top from post eight and held off his rivals the entire trip around the 550-yard oval. Charles Haliburton III of CO owns the star sprinter who tops the kennel's list for the first of three stakes to end the year. Renegade is slated to compete in the $50,000 Fall Sprint that starts late September. "He's a special one," said Nova kennel owner Hans Limmer who graces the cover of the Greyhound Review Magazine this month with his wife Elly and Renegade. The 70-pound male from Dodgem By Design and Bryan's Baby also recorded a 30th career win of 49 starts and he has hit the pay sheet 45 of those 49 starts.

While Nova kennel enjoyed another win by their star the new Hambleton kennel enjoyed watching their St. Pete Derby Champion Storm Rush (Kiowa Mon Manny x Sizzler Drive) leave the field in a seven-length wake over the 660-yard course. James Hambleton and his wife Helen from KS own Storm Rush. The Hambleton's were in town dining in the Derby Club when their stakes winning female smoked the field from the inside three post. She paid $10.80 to win over Kentucky Fire (Cal Holland) who was the betting favorite. Storm Rush is a dual distance athlete and will eye the Distance Challenge in December. She is also eligible to compete in the Fall Sprint. Hambleton kennel is currently in second place, respectively in the standings and is making an impressive bid for the top spot.

Monday night the Tri Super starts at $10,812. The wager is played in races 5 & 7. Fans select the winning trifecta in race five and then get an exchange ticket if the numbers are correct to select the superfecta in race 7. Good Luck! First post Monday night is 7:30 pm, est.

Congratulations Hi Noon Renegade for making the cover of the National Greyhound Review
McAllister kennel tops standings
Enter your Saturday night picks in the Kcimagemakers Derby Lane game http://www.kcimagemakers.com/greyhound.html
JW Titleist seeks four in a row Saturday night

Fans from all over the globe participate in the Saturday night Kcimagemakers Fantasy Greyhound League. Participants enter the greyhound they feel will win each of the 15 races at the website. Past winners have been from Canada, Barbados, England, Australia and the US. How well can you select a winner? Click here for details. http://www.kcimagemakers.com/greyhound.html

Back by popular demand! The Derby Club Restaurant is offering the buy one get one half off dinner buffet during the entire month of August. Reservations suggested.

Mark your calendars for Monday September 5. Derby Lane will hold a special Labor Day Matinee ONLY card along with a cash giveaway.

July 22 Weekend News
Patriot takes top spot in kennel standings
JW Titleist and Flying Killerbee highlight weekend races
Enter the Saturday Fantasy Greyhound League and hone your handicapping skills click on the link for all the information. Thank you Kcimagemakers for hosting the league. http://www.kcimagemakers.com/greyhound.html

Derby Lane welcomes the "SPA" - Racing from Saratoga begins Friday July 22
First post from the SPA is 1:00 pm, est.
Racing from Delmar now on simulcast menu-Welcome
JW Titleist sets new seasons 550-yard
Killer Bee continues sting
Campbell litter-sisters win maidens
Stakes schedule announced

Wednesday July 20 doubleheader
Tri Super starts at $21,409 Wednesday matinee
Patriot and Red Oak "paw to paw"
More Holland littermates debut
Killer Bee back Wednesday night

The Tri Super jackpot is swelling and will start at $21,409 Wednesday matinee. First post is 12:30 pm, est. The wager begins in race five where the correct three numbers of the first three finishers (trifecta) will get an exchange ticket for the back half of the wager in race seven. Fans selecting the first four finishers (superfecta) in race 7 will collect the jackpot for a single ticket or divide the jackpot for multiple winners. Also Derby Lane forces out the Twin Trifecta every WEDNESDAY night no matter what the jackpot is. It begins over $500 for Wednesday matinee. Twin Tri played in races 11 & 13.

According to the kennel standings in today (July 20) program Red Oak and Patriot kennels are tied for the top spot with 33 wins each. Patriot kennel has 19 entries for the doubleheader. Red Oak has 12 contenders.

Cal Holland kennel is debuting a litter of pups by Derby Lane's 2006 All American Joe Hearns and former Derby Lane racer Jack's Fire. Tuesday night Jack's Wild News made news winning his debut race. Wednesday matinee Jack's Super Cat competes in race two and her littlermate Jack's Blast Em is in race four. Wednesday night their sisters Jack's Espresso and Jack's Sky Angel will be in races two and four. The litter is owned by Michael Cassidy of CO.

The Killer Bee hopes to sting again Wednesday night. The saying is "the best is saved for last." If true fans will have to wait until race 15 tonight when McAllister kennel's newest hopeful Flying Killer Bee competes. The young male made an impressionable debut and won his maiden debut by five and a half-lengths. The speedy Bee repeated his feat in a five length romp winning grade D. Wednesday night the 74 pound male hopes to rocket to the front for a threepeat for owner Vince Berland of KS.

Hambleton scores four wins Monday night
Tri Super starts over $18,000 Tuesday night
The Doug Flint trained Hambleton kennel won four races on the Monday night card for the newly formed kennel. All four winners were sired by past Derby Lane superstars. Genaro's Revenge sired by Fuzzys Cannon won his race followed by a victory with Elham Valentino sired by the late Triple Crown champion Dominator. Hambleton won the final two races of the night with KB's Kazoo a daughter of the late BD's Phillip and KB's Well Wisher sired by none other than the late Dodgem By Design. All four of the sires were major headliners during their racing days on track and watching their pups win Monday night brought back many fond memories of the former stars.

The Tri Super jackpot is swelling and will start at $18,536 Tuesda night. First post is 7:30 pm, est. The wager begins in race five where the correct three numbers of the first three finishers (trifecta) will get an exchange ticket for the back half of the wager in race seven. Fans selecting the first four finishers (superfecta) in race 7 will collect the jackpot for a single ticket or divide the jackpot for multiple winners.

Congratulations to Eloozhun for winning the Kcimagemakers Derby Lane Fantasy Picks Saturday Night Game!
Tri Super starts over $17,000 Monday night
Patriot rallies in weekend racing
Weekend favorites see streaks halted
Killerbee continues sting
Gary Dura includes Derby Lane in his Dubuque blog
http://www.thonline.com/blogs/off_the_track/

Tri Super starts over $11,000 for Friday night
Red Oak Racing tops kennel standings
Hi Noon Renegade is top dog
Kentucky Fire eyes threepeat Saturday night
Can you pick a winner? Can you beat the best? Test your skill and enter the Fantasy League. Click on the link and compete against players from around the globe. http://www.kcimagemakers.com/greyhound.html

The Tri Super jackpot is growing and will start over $11,000 for the weekend racing. The wager is played in races 5 and 7. Red Oak Racing heads into the weekend three wins over last meets top Patriot in the kennel standings. The Robert Lambert trained kennel has 142 starts since July 1 with 28 winners, 22 seconds, 17 thirds and 19 fourths. Patriot has the most starts thus far with 171 boasting 25 winners, 26 seconds, 27 thirds and 20 fourth place finishes. McAllister is in third place with 21 wins of 105 starts. Lester Raines and Nova are tied with 17 wins each for the fourth place slot.

Nova kennel’s Hi Noon Renegade (Dodgem By Design x Bryan’s Baby) and Capabal’s Greta’s Shanghai (Coldwater Keelin x Jawa Princess L) boast perfect money finishes with Renegade’s 4/3-1-0-0 and Shanghai’s 3/3-0-0-0.

Hi Noon Renegade will be seeking four in a row Saturday night (July 16) in race 10. Two races prior to Renegade’s race Kentucky Fire who set the new season’s best 660-yard time Wednesday for Cal Holland, is poised for a threepeat in race eight.

Kentucky Fire blazes new season's best
Hi Noon Renegade halts streak

Wednesday night (July 13) saw Cal Holland's Kentucky Fire (Dragon Fire x RK's Tomb Raider) rocket to the lead and pull away in a six and a half-length victory in a blazing 37.18. The 60-pound black beauty has been a runner-up in two major stake this year. The dual distance dynamo was second in the 550-yard Gold Trophy stakes and the 660-yard Derby consolation. Fire celebrated her second birthday in May and appears to have not reached her peak, yet. The victory over her stakes-like rivals included this year's triple crown greyhound champion Flying Coal City who finished fourth. Don Godby of Colorado owns Kentucky Fire that is trained by Justin Holland.

Before Fire's blazing race the historic Hi Noon Renegade (Dodgem By Design x Bryan's Baby) also recorded a box to wire feat for Nova kennel that halted the win streak of rising star Craigie I Am Jak (Campbell kennel). Renegade powered his way to the front in a five length victory. At .40 cents to the dollar Renegade did not disappoint his fans and collected a hat trick over the 550-yard course. Renegade's victory was also his 26th win of 41starts in 2011. Congratulations!

Learn more about Greyhounds from the Metmuseum New Connections
Gary Tinterow gives a wonderful summation of the Greyhound
http://www.metmuseum.org/connections/greyhounds/#/Feature/

McAllister finished Derby Lane meet on top in standings
Red Oak blazes in weekend opener
Alabama & Hambleton kennels join roster

Magic Finch, Storm Rush score Derby titles

Photo right: Derby Lane Vice President Richard Winning made the trophy presentation to Royal Racing Team’s Trainers for Storm Rush (Kiowa Mon Manny x Sizzler Drive) who jockeyed for position to finally wear her rival down for the win in the 85th annual St. Petersburg Derby Saturday June 25. Storm Cloud and Abernathy kennel’s Magic Finch (Lonesome Cry x Bird A Flyin) thrilled fans with wins in the St. Petersburg Derby and Consolation Derby races. Storm Rush’s battle with two-time stakes champion USS Gazillionair who was also the Distance Classic runner-up this year has been the most watched replay from Derby Lane’s website since the race was finalized Saturday night June 25. The 10^th race stakes was a two-dog battle from the start with Gazillionair "man handling" the female who rallied for a crafty comeback in the homestretch. Storm Rush powered her way to the front but the 75-pound Gazillionair pushed her to the inside and out of his way. Gazillionair took the lead in the backstretch with Storm Rush putting forth a valiant effort that saw the female storm her way to the outside of Gazillionair and pull away in a four-length victory. Storm Rush gives the kennel their first stakes win. James Hambleton of KS owns Storm Rush and is also the new owner of the Royal Racing kennel that will be changing the name of the kennel July 1. "I really like this female," said trainer Doug Flint, "Her win was not a surprise to me, as I truly felt she was the best distance greyhound in the final." Flint is looking forward to watching the 21-month old female develop. Flying Marvelous was the betting favorite that was cutoff in both turns. Storm Rush paid $11.40 for her win. USS Gazillionair has competed at both distances this year. He was the Fall Juvenile champion in November 2010. This year the male won the Rotary Governor’s race and has now been the runner-up in both major 660-yard stakes this year. OK Barry (Capabal), Magic Smoke (Abernathy), Flying Masago (McAllister), Dancin Rainman (Nova) and Flying Marvelous (McAllister) finished third through eighth, respectively.

Before the tenth race Derby Charter kennel’s Strike Out King was the betting favorite in the Consolation stakes that was held in race eight. When the greyhound’s fired out of the box it was Cal Holland’s speedster Kentucky Fire that shot out on top. She led all the way to the homestretch before Magic Finch, who won the $85,000 Distance Classic in April, overtook Fire near the wire for the title. Finch paid $7.80 to win. "I just schooled her before she ran in the qualifier," said kennel owner Jim Abernathy. "I wasn’t sure if she was totally ready for the stakes, but she did just fine." Finch was pulled a few starts after the April stakes and was laid off for nearly two months. Her second place in the opening rounds earned Finch a slot in the semifinals, but her seventh place finish placed her in the Consolation stakes. Terry and Lisa Haber who own Finch made the trip again for their star female who has littermates racing and doing well at Tri State in WV. Strike Out King (Charter) was the bet favorite from the rail post who finished third followed by Alderson kennel’s Starz Brave One to complete the Superfecta that paid $660.10. Fifth through eighth was Kiowa JSK Gustaf (Patriot), Chugalugger (Magic City-Mighty Fine), Strike It Up (Charter) and Hi Noon Maestro (Nova).

Storm Rush wins St. Pete Derby
Magic Finch captures Consolation

It was ladies night at Derby Lane Saturday night when the females ruled both stake race finals. First up Magic Finch cinched a second distance stakes title. She was this year's Distance Classic champion. Owners Terry and Lisa Haber came to town to support their champion that raced out of the Abernathy kennel. Holland kennel's Kentucky Fire was unleashed at the break, but was caught near the wire to take second followed by Strike Out King, Starz Brave One, Kiowa JSK Gusfaf, Chugalugger, Strike It Up and Hi Noon Maestro.

The 10th race Derby saw the veteran double stakes winner USS Gazillionair and the petite and powerful Storm Rush jockey the lead until Storm Rush wore him out and pulled away to win by four lengths. This was a big win for the Doug Flint trained Royal Racing Team kennel-their first stakes win. USS Gazillionair put forth a winning effort to place followed by OK Barry, Magic Smoke, Flying Masago, Dancin Rainman, Galway and Flying Marvelous in that order.

Congratulations to everyone associated with all the stakes entries in this year's final stakes of the meet.

Marvelous and Storm eye female title in Derby
Patriot kennel defends Consolation title

The St. Petersburg Derby and Consolation stakes will be held Saturday night June 25. The Derby is the second longest running Greyhound stakes in North America. It features eight of the top 660-yard greyhounds of the season. Last year TMC's Remedy closed out a phenomenal season where he captured the win, which included every distance feature during the Derby Lane meet last year. TMC’s Remedy’s victory for owners Eddie and Rhonda McDonald (photo right) also snapped the two-year streak held by female athletes. In 2008 D'Arcy kennel's Greys Touch Gold scored the win followed by 2009 champion WW's Death Valley before Remedy returned the title to the males. After Remedy’s win last year the McDonald’s retired the superstar to sire status where his first litter of pups will be track ready this fall.

Although Remedy’s win could start a new male trend, there are two phenomenal females that are taking on the six males. McAllister who has won the lion's share of stakes races since their arrival, has not collected a Derby trophy, yet. They have two entries in the stakes boasting impressive records. Flying Masago is a 76- pound male with 31of 38-money finishes. Of those starts 21 are first or second place finishes. Masago is favorably posted and might find his biggest challenge to be his kennelmate Flying Marvelous-the most talked about female in the nation. No other pup has done what she has in just a handful of starts. Marvelous arguably makes Derby history with just eight career starts in the stakes final. Of the six wins Marvelous won five over the 660-yard course. She has been installed as the morning line favorite despite the talented veteran company she will keep in the stakes. Both Flying Marvelous’ parents were stakes contenders at Derby Lane. Kiowa Sweet Trey was a 550-yard stakes champion and Flying Midnight competed at the 660-yards.

Royal Racing Team's Storm Rush is the second female also making her mark. She was a stakes finalist in the T. L. Weaver race earlier this month over the 550-yards. She faces off with Marvelous and Raines kennel's USS Gazillionair in the Derby, too. Gazillionair was last year's Fall Juvenile champion and this year's runner-up in the 660-yard Distance Classic in April. Gazillionair won this year’s Rotary Governor’s feature over the 550-yard and a Derby win would give the male a third career stakes. Gazillionair is powerful and another stakes win could make him an appealing All-American candidate for next year's awards.

Capabal kennel's OK Barry earned his post with an upset victory in semifinals. The kennel has two Derby titles under their belt. Their first Derby win came in 1998 with Jimbo's Chelsie. Six years later PNJ's Barr gave the kennel a second Derby title. Barry will need to repeat his previous win by breaking close to the field and never looking back.

Nova made kennel history in the Gold Trophy Juvenile stakes in May when they won the stakes for a third consecutive year, which was a first in Derby Lane history. Dancin Rainman could give Nova a first Derby title tonight. The kennel also made history in the T. L. Weaver stakes with Hi Noon Renegade who became the first Gold Trophy Juvenile champion to also win a Sprint Classic in the same season. Rainman has been a consistent superfecta finisher. The male could rain on his opponent's parade with his late speed style.

Abernathy kennel won the Distance Classic stakes earlier this year with Magic Finch who heads the Consolation field to post in race eight Saturday night. Their Derby entry is Magic Smoke that might smoke the field if he gets out quickly. Abernathy hopes to appear in the winner’s circle twice on Saturday night.

D'Arcy kennel is also hopeful for a second Derby title. Trainer Kate D'Arcy owned the kennel’s 2008 champion Greys Touch Gold. Her entry Galway will have his work cut out for him to win in this field. Galway's racing style is to seek the rail early and pour it on late. He will be among the longshots and with a little luck he could upset the field.

Before the running of the St. Petersburg Derby the 81st annual Derby Consolation stakes will be featured in the eighth race. Patriot is the defending kennel. Last year Starz Lee Steel went box to wire from post three for the kennel. This year Kiowa JSK Gustaf will seek a repeat kennel title from the outside eight post.

Charter kennel's Strike It Up and Strike Out King hope for a one-two punch for trainer Danielle Asbury. The two males scored wins in their first round heats to get them to the stakes final. A win in the stakes will be bittersweet for Asbury as the Charter kennel is leaving July 1.

This year's Distance Classic champion Magic Finch recently returned after a two-month layoff and hopes to score a second distance title this year in the eighth race Consolation for Abernathy kennel. It has been over two decades since Abernathy’s Bingo Sande won the Consolation in 1989. Cal Holland’s Kentucky Fire is also one to not exclude as a winner in the race. Kentucky Fire was the runner-up in the Gold Trophy stakes in May over the 550-yard course. Holland won back to back Consolation titles with Mesa Coppertatoo in 1996 and the following year Dark Champion gave Holland a second Derby title.

Over three decades have passed since Alderson kennel was in the winner’s circle of a Consolation stakes with the 1980 champion Cool Gal. This year’s kennel hopeful Starz Brave One hopes to end the dry spell for the kennel. He will need some help from post two, as he is between two speedsters.

The Magic City – Mighty Fine kennel hopes their slow breaking Chugalugger will come alive for the stakes. It will be a full year in July that the kennel has raced the circuit. They are seeking a first stakes win. Although Chugalugger will be a longshot in the field, a benefit could see the well-bred male light the board. Good Luck to everyone. The 81^st annual Consolation stakes race will be featured at approximately 9:33 pm, est in race eight followed by the St. Petersburg Derby in race ten. The approximate post time is 10:11 pm, est. Good Luck Everyone!

Breaking news Thursday June 23, 2011-7:00 PM
St Petersburg Derby & Consolation posts drawn

Hi Noon Renegade and USS Gazillionair vie for third stakes victory Saturday
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Derby Lane will feature the 15^th annual T. L. Weaver Memorial Challenge Saturday night June 4. Nova kennel’s history making Hi Noon Renegade will go for a third stakes win this year. Two weeks ago the male made history by becoming the only Juvenile stakes champ to win the Sprint Classic in the same meet. Renegade has the longest running win streak this year. He won ten in a row in the third fastest time of the meet on May 28. His streak was snapped this past Wednesday (June 1). Renegade finished a valiant second in his Weaver qualifier. Renegade drew the four post and has been installed as the program favorite by track announcer and program handicapper Jim Peake. Photo above right is Nova kennel trainer Rosa Gibbs with Hi Noon Renegade after his historic Gold Trophy victory.

Lester Raines kennel’s USS Gazillionair is eyeing the prize, which would give him a third career stakes. USS Gazillionair was the 2010 Fall Juvenile champion and won this year’s Rotary Governor’s feature in February. Gazillionair also coursed the 660-yards and was the runner-up in the Distance Classic in April. McAllister kennel will be defending the title in the race. Last year Flying Coal City breezed to the finish collecting the sprint title. This year’s kennel hopeful is Kiowa Tori Tech who halted Renegade’s streak. Tori also drew the coveted rail post for McAllister.

Royal Racing Team’s Storm Rush is the only female in the field. She won her qualifier that also snapped the streak of Aerial Battle who encountered trouble. Aerial Battle who was a finalist in last year’s stakes finished last and was pulled from the active list. Only three females have taken the trophy of the past 14 stakes finals. Storm Rush could be added to the list. Storm Rush is also the youngest in the field with just 12 career starts under her belt. She has won half of them and boasts nine quiniela finishes.

M’s Free Agent is one to watch that could upset the race for Floyd & Porter. Agent is one of the successful M & M littermates. Free Agent was a Gold Trophy finalist in 2010 and made it all the way to semifinals of this year’s Sprint Classic. Free Agent’s father Extruding Dream won the T. L. Weaver stakes in 2007. Like father, like son? We will find out Saturday.

Campbell Greyhound Racing’s Backwood Cody will get another shot at a stakes title. Cody was a semifinalist in the 2010 Fall Juvenile and competed in two rounds of the 660-yard Challenge last December. This year Cody put pressure on Sprint Classic champion Hi Noon Renegade and finished just a half-length behind Renegade in the stakes. Cody is known for his late speed and will be looking for room to run in the homestretch.

Kiowa Class King earned his post with the required fourth place finish. The Patriot kennel male is no stranger to stakes races and could win his first Saturday. King ran third in last year’s Night of Stars. This year he was third in the Matinee Idol and was a finalist in the Sprint Classic.

Cool Pinto Bay from Charter kennel was an Inaugural finalist this year and competed in two rounds of the Sprint Classic. The male earned his post by racing fourth in qualifying. Pinto Bay will be a longshot to win, but his superfecta record is a favorite among his backers.

The T. L. Weaver Memorial stakes will be held in RACE 8 Saturday night with an approximate post time of 9:33 p.m., est. Derby Lane also streams the races live. Following the race I will be interviewing the winning kennel. Join us live or watch us on the net.

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Aerial Battle marks 60th career win
Special Memorial Day Matinee May 30
Bar-B-Q special and Cash Giveaway matinee only
Tortuga Trophy wins 660, tuning up for June Derby

Wednesday night's eleventh race was as impressive as a stakes race final. Aerial Battle shown in the photo to the right with Trainer Belinda Parker. Photo by Vera Rasnake.
Aerial Battle has made an impressive comeback and was seeking six in a row against the dual distance 2010 Triple Crown award winner Flying Coal City (McAllister). Also in the race was Kentucky Fire (Cal Holland) who was the runner-up in last week's Gold Trophy stakes and the dual distance Mohican Mink Mae (O'Donnell) that has been in several stakes finals. Red Oak's RC China Doll recently had her win streak snapped after posting three straight was also featured in the race as well as Kiowa Class King, DV's Leory and Super Betty.

Aerial Battle came out of the box on top and never looked back. The impressive 2010 All-America Team II male beat a stellar field of athletes. Aerial Battle is eyeing his fourth birthday in September and showed the youngsters the way around the oval Wednesday night.

We're cooking up a special Memorial Day matinee with Bar-B-Q ribs and chicken specials (matinee only) and we're giving away CASH races 1 through 10 during the Matinee performance only. Ten fans will win $250 each in drawings immediately following races 1 through 10 Memorial Day matinee only. The regular Monday night races will begin at 7:30 pm.

Other news: Last week's Gold Trophy Juvenile finalist and third place finisher Tortuga Trophy (D'Arcy) is tuning up for the 660-yard challenge. The male competed in four distance races earlier this year and won one of the four. With a few months of racing under his belt Trophy has matured into an impressive athlete. His late breaking-late rushing style appears to be perfect for the 660-yards. Tortuga Trophy halted O'Donnell kennel's Kiowa Sky Selma's  attempt at a hat trick over the longer course Wednesday night.

Hi Noon Renegade makes history at Derby Lane
Nova kennel's superstar Hi Noon Renegade made a historical mark when he crossed first in the Gold Trophy Juvenile stakes Saturday night. The 70-pound male became the first greyhound in the 72 year history of the Gold Trophy stakes to win it along with the Sprint Classic stakes in the same meet. Renegade was in full control of the stakes and marked a ninth in a row victory. Owned by Charles Haliburton, III of Colorado Renegade's portfolio is impressive and will be among America's top dogs when the All-America nominations become due next year. (Photo right) Derby Lane Vice President Richard Winning (left) presented Nova kennel owners Hans & Elly Limmer with the Gold Trophy for the win. Trainer Rosa Gibbs, next to Elly was also among the group that celebrated the historic victory. Photo by Vera Rasnake

Hi Noon Renegade seeks historic marks in Gold Trophy Saturday
St. Petersburg Times story click link below
http://www.tampabay.com/sports/parimutuels/history-could-be-made-in-derby-lanes-gold-trophy-juvenile/1170863

The super Nova star Hi Noon Renegade is seeking a historic mark in Saturday night’s Gold Trophy Juvenile. The 72^nd annual stakes will be held in race 8 with an approximate post time of 9:33 pm, est. Renegade has had full command of the 55-yard oval since his victory in the Sprint Classic in March. The son of Dodgem By Design x Bryan’s Baby collected eight in a row in semifinals of the Gold Trophy series. Renegade is also the only undefeated entry in the final. The 70-pound male hopes to score the win and sweep the entire series for Nova kennel. A win by Renegade in the stakes would also make the Nova the first kennel in the history of the race to "threepeat". They won the race in 2009 with Hi Noon Rembrant and last year LS Jack Williams won the stakes for Nova.

Only five kennels in the 72-year history of the Gold Trophy have won a back-to-back title. Many of the past power pups claimed the prestigious Gold Trophy Juvenile stakes on their way to National fame. Miss Down won the first stakes in 1937 over the 495-yard course. Since then the 550-yard (5/16ths mile) has become the standard oval for the stakes. Rinaker, Perceive, and Havencroft were among the early headliners. In later years Seeinandbeinseen, K' Broadway, Bartie and Hoosier Country were among the pups crossing first. In 2003 Flying Newport won the Gold Trophy stakes. Two years later Newport won the Sprint Classic becoming the only greyhound in Gold Trophy history to collect the coveted Sprint Classic and Gold Trophy stakes.

This year Hi Noon Renegade became the first greyhound in many years to breeze through every round of the Gold Trophy undefeated. His perfect qualifiers earned him 64 points. A win by Renegade would make him the first greyhound in history to win a Sprint Classic and the Juvenile in the same racing season.

Although Nova kennel's Renegade is poised for perfection, one can not ignore the super seven that have their eye on the prize. Cal Holland kennel's Kentucky Fire blazed an impressive winning trail during semifinals finishing second high with 48 points. Her impressive win despite being offstrided made one take notice. She is the only female in the field of males.

A three-way tie for the final two slots after semifinals were part of the blind draw Thursday night. D’Arcy kennel’s Tortuga Trophy made the cut and joined his kennelmate Brother Buck giving D’Arcy the only double entry in the stakes. Buck needs to be in or near the front early while Trophy is a phenomenal flyer at the end. Floyd & Porter kennel’s Longo also made the cut while his kennelmate M’s Glaze Fancy was eliminated. Longo is arguably the fastest breaker in the stakes tonight. Longo and Tortuga Trophy are the only two in the stakes that were winless during qualifying rounds.

The fast breaking Speedy Sprocket (Royal Racing) is lethal if he gets out quickly. A win by him would be a kennel first, too. Kiowa Rousey (J. E. O’Donnell) will be looking to threaten late in the race. Rousey showed a lot of late power Wednesday night to finish second from far back. Patriot kennel’s Kiowa Grand Gary could also surprise from the outside eight post he drew. Gary is not a fast breaker, but will take advantage of any opening he finds. Good luck to everyone. This will be a great race!

Hi Noon Renegade sweeps Gold Trophy series, eyes final
Three-way tie for the last two slots in the stakesThe super nova star Hi Noon Renegade (Dodgem By Design x Bryan’s Baby) swept the Gold Trophy series undefeated to enter the 72^nd annual stakes on May 21 undefeated. The 70-pound male collected eight straight and continues to be the leading favorite to win the stakes final. "He (Renegade) is a true champion," said kennel owner Hans Limmer. "The whole litter is nice, but Renegade is really something special." Limmer also said that "lady luck" has been a big factor in the kennel. Renegade topped the finalists with 64 points.

Cal Holland kennel’s Kentucky Fire gave a stellar performance despite offstriding in the far turn. The female racked up a second set of win points and finished second high with 48 points. Renegade and Fire advanced to the final along with four others that include Speedy Sprocket (Royal Racing) 42 points, Kiowa Rousey, (J. E. O’Donnell) 37 points, Kiowa Grand Gary (Patriot) 34 points and D’Arcy kennel’s Brother Buck with 31 points.

A three-way tie with 27 points each are Longo and M’s Glaze Fancy from Floyd & Porter and D’Arcy kennel’s Tortuga Trophy. A draw by lot will be held in the Racing Office Thursday night at 6:30 pm, est to determine which two of the three will fill the final two slots for the 72^nd annual stakes. The results along with the stakes final in post position order will be here tomorrow night immediately following the draw.

Royal Racing Team’s Speedy Sprocket posted a win for Royal Racing Team in the earlier race six that moved the male from the bottom half of the sweet sixteen into a two-way tie for second place. Kentucky Fire, Hi Noon Rage, M’s Glaze Fancy, Kiowa Rousey, Brother Buck, Napster Drive and News King finished in that order. The final qualifiers will be held Wednesday night May 18. The eight greyhounds with the most points will make up the 72^nd annual Gold Trophy Juvenile stakes. The qualifiers will be drawn Monday night and posted here on Vera’s News for a first look.
Flying Coal City and Hi Noon Renegade highlight weekend
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Three weeks after the 2010 Triple Crown Greyhound champion Flying Coal City received his honors at the Greyhound Hall of Fame in Kansas he is back on track at Derby Lane in FL. The 76-pound male makes his schooling return for the McAllister kennel after being sidelined for ten weeks. While tuning up for the Distance Classic Coal City a.k.a. Coal Train suffered a minor injury. He was transported to KS to rest and heal at owner Vince Berland’s facility. While in Kansas the male became one of the few Greyhounds in the history of the NGA and All-America awards to make a personal appearance.

According to Malcolm McAllister Flying Coal City is returning just in time to defend his title in next month’s T. L. Weaver Memorial. Coal City won the opening Inaugural stakes this year and hopes to get back on track for a second shot at the awards next year. McAllister is hopeful that his dual distance champion will be up to the task of the upcoming 550-yard stakes and then move to the backside when the St. Petersburg Derby begins in June.

Before his injury Flying Coal City was the talk of the track. In his absence the Sprint Classic champion and current undefeated Gold Trophy entry Hi Noon Renegade (Nova kennel) has hogged the spotlight. Renegade is dominating the 550-yard oval and goes for seven in a row Saturday night May 14 in round three of the Juvenile stakes series. Before the series began Renegade was named the leading favorite. Hi Noon Renegade has not disappointed. Round three qualifiers will be held in races 6 and 10 Saturday May 14. Below are the two races in post position order.

Other news: The top Patriot kennel is also bringing back two of their stars. Kiowa Fly Army who has not raced since January and Kiowa Deli Dana that was injured in February will also compete in the first schooling race Friday night with Flying Coal City. Strike Out King (Charter) who commanded the 660-yard course earlier this year is also returning to the active list. He too is featured in the Friday schooler with Coal City.

Round 3 Gold Trophy Juvenile entries below:
As if he needed any more luck Hi Noon Renegade drew the coveted rail pole and dodged the number two ranked Brother Buck who will compete in race six Saturday night. Ten points were the cutoff that advanced the 16 entries to round three. Renegade is the top point getter and the only undefeated entry among the two heats. Round three heats will be held in races six and ten Saturday night May 14. Below is the first peek at Saturday night’s third round in POST POSITION ORDER.
Gold Trophy Juvenile Round #3
Race 6 Saturday night May 14
1-Napster Drive, Charter-18 points
2-Brother Buck, D’Arcy-26 points
3-News King, D’Arcy-16 points
4-M’s Glaze Fancy, Floyd & Porter-19 points
5-Speedy Sprocket, Royal Racing Team-16 points
6-Kiowa Rousey, J. E. O’Donnell-24 points
7-Hi Noon Rage, Nova-10 points
8-Kentucky Fire, Cal Holland-22 points

Round 3 in POST POSITION ORDER.
Gold Trophy Juvenile Round #3
Race 10 Saturday night May 14
1-Hi Noon Renegade, Nova-32 points
2-TB’s Tater, Charter-16 points
3-Long, Floyd & Porter-13 points
4-Hallo Glacken, J. E. O’Donnell-14 points
5-Kentucky Harold, Cal Holland-20 points
6-Kiowa Grand Gary, Patriot-24 points
7-Tortuga Trophy, D’Arcy-14 points
8-TMC’s Hero, J. E. O’Donnell-10 points

Hi Noon Renegade continues winning spree

Hi Noon Renegade going for 6 in a row Wednesday
Elham Valentino pulled from Juvenile series

Hi Noon Renegade doesn’t disappoint in Juvenile qualifiers
Round two draw Monday night and will be posted here for a first look

Greyhound’s will continue to add points in round two Wednesday night May 11 where the top sixteen will move to the final two rounds that will produce the May 21 finalists. Below are the current point totals. The second round will be drawn Monday night May 9 and posted right here on Vera’s News immediately following for a first look at the races.
Gold Trophy Juvenile Point totals

Gold Trophy Juvenile begins Saturday night
Nova kennel prepares to defend title for third year
Sprint Classic Champ
Hi Noon Renegade seeks 5 in a row in Gold Trophy round one
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Kentucky Derby Weekend May 6 & 7 - FREE Admission & FREE General Parking EVERYDAY!
Round #1 Gold Trophy Juvenile May 7
Flying Carnoustie is "top dog"

Derby Lane is coming up on Kentucky Derby weekend where both horse and greyhound fans can enjoy a weekend full of championship racing. Gates will open early both Friday and Saturday at 10:00 AM. Advance Kentucky Derby wagering will begin  Friday. Breakfast foods will be available on the menu.

Saturday night May 7 the first round of the coveted Gold Trophy Juvenile stakes will begin. Some of the most recognized greyhound legends took home the coveted prize. Superstars like Rinaker, Share Profit, Perceive, Seeinandbeinseen and K's Broadway stood in previous winner's circle. This year the Nova kennel will again defend their title and seek a hat trick in the stakes. Last year's champion Hi Noon Rembrant and the 2009 winner LS Jack Williams were both Nova stars. The kennel won the Sprint Classic in March with Hi Noon Renegade who is on a current winning streak. The male racked up three in a row April 28. Renegade is the kennel's top choice for this year's Gold Trophy. 

McAllister kennel's Flying Carnoustie (Dragon Fire x Flying Snap On) continued his winning spree Saturday night. Of his 26 starts this year Carnoustie has collected 17 wins. The male is eyeing a third birthday this July. Carnoustie has been on fire and has only lost three races since Valentine's Day (February 14). Carnoustie's record is impressive, but the male has a checkered past. Last year he was the favorite in the Gold Trophy stakes but was aggressive in the semifinal that eliminated him from the stakes. Because of his bad line Carnoustie is banned from competiting in future stakes. However, he can be recognized for his wins and is a fan favorite every time he races. The round one draw for the Gold Trophy will be held Thursday night and as always will be listed on Vera's News first.

The Coal Train is back
Derby Lane greyhounds honored at Greyhound Hall of Fame

April 27 is the last Wednesday Matinee Buffet of the season. Make your reservations today. Derby Club dining will only be available Friday and Saturday's beginning April 29.

Kentucky Derby Weekend is May 6 & 7
GATES OPEN EARLY AT 10:00 am both Friday & Saturday
Advance wagering begins Friday May 6
Gold Trophy Juvenile begins Saturday night May 7

Flying Coal City & TMC's Remedy will be honored at Greyhound Hall of Fame Thursday
Derby Lane will offer regular Sunday Schedule on Easter
Two of Derby Lane’s superstars will be honored Thursday April 21 at the Greyhound Hall of Fame ceremonies as part of the week-long NGA Spring Meet. "I can’t thank everyone enough for recognizing Remedy again," said owner Eddie McDonald of TX. "It’s an honor to be on the team and I look forward to seeing the people I met last year at my first time in Abilene." TMC’s Remedy became one of the few Derby Lane greyhounds to win the prestigious Distance Classic two consecutive years. McDonald retired his star after Remedy won every 660-yard feature at Derby Lane in 2010. "He retired a champion," said Eddie who sent his star to Kenneth Biehle’s in TX where Remedy is currently standing at sire. Flying Coal City known to all his fans as Coal Train stole the show to earn the Triple Crown in the sport.

Flying Coal City won stakes races over both the 550 and 660-yards at Derby Lane. He was even in the running for the title as the North America win leader, but missed by a nose to Where’s Big Cash who will also be recognized on April 21. "In my opinion Coal City is the fastest greyhound I have ever handled," said Malcom McAllister. "He is simply awesome." Flying Coal City won the All-America Team Captain that depicts the top dog in North America by the American Greyhound Track Operators Association. Coal City was voted the best sprinter and distance racer by NGA members capturing the Rural Rube and Flashy Sir awards.

Coal City kicked off 2011 with a win in the Inaugural, but encountered a string of bad luck while attempting to defend his title in the Sprint Classic last month. A bad race left him in a tie for the last slot, but he did not win the draw by lot. He then focused on the Distance Classic and sustained a minor injury before the series began. Coal City was sent to his owner Vince Berland’s farm in KS to heal. "Since he is here in KS Coal City will be at the Greyhound Hall of Fame to claim his awards," said Berland. "If Coal City is back to himself we may be bringing him back to Derby Lane after the awards," said McAllister. "He won last year’s T. L. Weaver and could defend his title again in June.

Derby Lane’s TMC’s Remedy and Flying Coal City will be honored Thursday April 21 along with Flagler/Mardi Gras and Naples star Where’s Big Cash; KB’s Ruckus and Cry Case (Wheeling, WV); Yahoo Omar (Palm Beach); Eds Budby (Jacksonville) and Southland’s CT Buck Wild who will also make a guest appearance at the HOF museum and receive her All-America recognition for her stellar year. The weeklong schedule link http://ngagreyhounds.com/event/spring-meet-2011/2011-04-18

Fans can "Get in the Game" April 22 & 23
Magic Finch & Flying Coal City are news in the St. Petersburg Times
http://www.tampabay.com/sports/parimutuels/article1164060.ece

Greyhound fans across the nation can bid on their own greyhound at the upcoming Spring Nationals held in Abilene Kansas. Monday April 18 the week-long event kicks off with races, celebrations, honors and more. Last year fans could watch the popular auction via live streaming video, but they were unable to bid on the greyhounds. This year the offering will be available. "We hope it will be successful," said new NGA president Lester Raines, who also has a kennel at Derby Lane. Posters are located throughout the Derby Lane facility with details. Raines also had posters mailed to other racetracks to display. For more information on the National Greyhound Association and the meet visit http://www.ngagreyhounds.com/

Join fans from across the nation and pick your winners in the Fantasy Greyhound League held every Saturday night. It's fun and easy to enter. Visit http://www.kcimagemakers.com/greyhound.html

Magic Finch upsets in Distance Classic final

Post Positions are drawn for the 52nd Distance Classic Saturday night April 9.
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Saturday April 9 - Race 10
$80,000 Distance Classic Stakes Race
In Post Position Order
1-USS Gazillionair (Uss Raceway x Greys Torrington) Ken Lesperance trainer, Ron Wiltse & Lester Raines owner, Lester Raines kennel-40-points
2-Magic Finch (Lonesome Cry x Bird A Flyin) Kayruth Abernathy trainer, Haber Kennels, Inc. owner, Abernathy kennel-43 points
3-Flying Masago (Kiowa Sweet Trey x Flying Senna) Barbara McAllister trainer, McAllister kennel-32 points
4-Kelsos Ace High (Kelsos Fusileer x Kslsos Picilino) Ken Lesperance trainer, John Kelly owner, Lester Raines kennel-40 points
5-Midnight Light (Larking About* x Elysium) Catherine D’Arcy trainer, Ryan Farms owner,D’Arcy kennel-36 points
6-Bow Timeless (Dodgem By Design x Bow Mattie Ross) Kayruth Abernathy trainer, Neil Blake owner, Abernathy kennel-38 points
7-Kiowa Sky Selma (Lonesome Cry x Kay Sky Diver) John Graham trainer,J. E. O’Donnell owner & kennel-40 points
8-Mohican Mink Mae (Heart Rumble* x Kiowa Mysticmink), John Graham trainer, Pauline O’Donnell owner, J. E. O’Donnell kennel-54 points

O'Donnell pair score wins in Distance Classic semis
Mohican Mink Mae leads elite eight to Distance Classic final
Midnight Light shines in Florida
read her feature story in the Times Leader by Stan Pawloski click on link below

http://www.timesleaderonline.com/page/content.detail/id/530085/Midnight-Light-makes-Distance-Classic-stake-final.html?nav=5013


Just like Madonna’s character introduction in the movie A League of Their Own it was "all the way Mae" in the semifinals of the Distance Classic when Kiowa Mink Mae rocketed out of the box winning three of the four qualifiers for the Distance Classic. J. E. O’Donnell kennel’s Mohican Mink Mae (Heart Rumble* x Kiowa Mysticmink) exploded out of the box topping the leader board with 54 points. Trained by John Graham the 62-pound black beauty won easily. Not only did Graham win the first semifinal, his second entry Kiowa Sky Selma (Lonesome Cry x Kay Sky Diver) also went box to wire earning her post in the final giving the kennel two shots at this year’s title. Sky Selma upset the favorites Kelsos Ace High and Midnight Light for the win. Above photo Catherine (Kate) D'Arcy with Midnight Light. Photo by vera rasnake

Lester Raines also earned two slots in the final with Kelsos Ace High and USS Gazillionair. Abernathy kennel’s Bow Timeless and Magic Finch will also vie for the title Saturday night with D’Arcy kennel’s Midnight Light and McAllister kennel’s Flying Masago.

Below is the "Elite Eight" for Saturday night’s $80,000 Distance Classic in point order. The post position shake will be held Thursday night and posted her on Vera’s News at 6:45 pm, est.
52^nd Annual Distance Classic Saturday Night April 9
Race 10 – in POINT ORDER
Mohican Mink Mae, J.E. O’Donnell-54 points
Magic Finch, Abernathy-43 points
Kelsos Ace High, Lester Raines-40 points
USS Gazillionair, Lester Raines-40-points
Kiowa Sky Selma, J. E. O’Donnell-40 points
Bow Timeless, Abernathy-38 points
Midnight Light-D’Arcy-36 points
Flying Masago, McAllister-32 points
The substitute should one of the finalists be pulled would be Capabal kennel’s Greta’s Shanghai-31 points.

Ace High and Midnight Light face-off again in semifinals

Magic Finch & Midnight Light upset favorites in third round of Distance Classic qualifiers
semifinal is Wednesday night
Saturday night's third round of the Distance Classic saw favorites lose to rivals turning in incredible performances. Abernathy kennel's Magic Finch (Lonesome Cry x Bird A Flyin) was the best in the homestretch and snatched the win away from the bet favorite USS Gazillionair at the wire. Flying Masago that won round two poured it on at the end finishing third from sixth and Kiowa Sky Selma completed the superfecta. Hammered Tight that broke on top and set the pace finished fifth followed by Waubun Queen B, Hi Noon Maestro and RC Johnny Lobo.

The stakes prelude in the tenth featured the undefeated Kelsos Ace High and Mohican Mink Mae. The nail-biter started with the two speedsters Mohican Mink Mae and Greta's Shanghai breaking one-two. The girls led all the way until the top of the homestretch where the gap was closing fast. The battle in the homestretch saw Midnight Light (Larking About* x Elysium) make her way through the middle of the field to score the top points for D'Arcy kennel. Second was Greta's Shanghai who put forth a tremendous effort followed by Kelsos Ace High coming back for third. Mae finished fourth. The race was amazingly close at the wire with only two and a half-lengths separating the first seven greyhounds. Fifth through eighth was Turbo Austin, Bow Timeless, Kiowa JSk Gustaf and M's Free Lance. The semifinals for the race will be Wednesday. The draw will be Monday night and listed here immediately following. This race is definitely one to watch and will be played over and over.
Below are the current point totals of the greyhounds heading into Wednesday's semifinals.
Kelsos Ace High, Lester Raines-40 points
Mohican Mink Mae, J. E. O'Donnell-38 points
Midnight Light, D'Arcy-34 points
USS Gazillionair, Lester Raines-34 points
Magic Finch, Abernathy-34 points
Flying Masago, McAllister-30 points
Bow Timeless, Abernathy-28 points
Kiowa Sky Selma, J. E. O'Donnell-24 points
Greta's Shanghai, Capabal-23 points
Turbo Austin, McAllister-19 points
Kiowa JSK Gustaf, Patriot-17 points
Hi Noon Maestro, Nova-14 points
Waubun Queen B, Floyd & Porter-13 points
Hammered Tight, Red Oak-13 points
M's Free Lance, Floyd & Porter-11 points
RC Johnny Lobo, Capabal-10 points
 

Flying Coal City is cover dog on National Greyhound Review March/April issue
Flying Coal City who will receive his Triple Crown award at the Greyhound Hall of Fame in Abilene Kansas April 21, is the cover dog. "It's an honor to receive any award but to sweep all of them is awesome," said Malcolm McAllister that raced Coal at Derby Lane. The champion was dubbed the "coal train" by track handicapper and announcer Jim Peake-a nickname that was fitting for the champion. The Greyhound Review is sold on the 4th floor of the Derby Club at the host stand.

Pick your pups in the fantasy greyhound league. Click link for more details
http://www.kcimagemakers.com/greyhound.html

Undefeated Kelsos Ace High and Mohican Mink Mae face-off Saturday
in Round #3 Distance Classic
The races have been drawn and posts shaken for the third round of the Distance Classic. The tie will be broken when the undefeated Kelsos Ace High and Mohican Mink Mae go "paw to paw" in race 10 Saturday night. Wednesday night's elimination rounds produced 15 greyhounds with 11 or more points to the third round. A two-way tie for the last spot would have resulted in a draw by lot, but TMC's Pistol was pulled from the field that advanced Hammered Tight and Sweetheart Challenge champion RC Johnny Lobo who went from zero to ten got him back in again with his second place finish in round two. The greyhounds will earn points in the next two rounds that will produce the top eight for the April 9 stakes. Below is the third round in post order for Saturday night. Point distribution is as follows: Win = 16, 2nd = 10, 3rd =8, 4th =6, 5th =3, 6th =2, 7th =1 and 8th =0
Saturday night April 2
Race 6 - Round 3 Distance Classic in post order
1-Flying Masago, McAllister-22 points
2-Kiowa Sky Selma, J.E. O'Donnell-18 points
3-Waubun Queen B, Floyd & Porter-11 points
4-Hammered Tight, Red Oak-10 points
5-Magic Finch, Abernathy-18 points
6-USS Gazillionair, Lester Raines-24 points
7-RC Johnny Lobo, Capabal-10 points
8-Hi Noon Maestro, Nova-13 points
Saturday night April 2
Race 10 - Round 3 Distance Classic in post order
1-Kelsos Ace High, Lester Raines-32 points
2-Turbo Austin, McAllister-16 points
3-Bow Timeless, Abernathy-26 points
4-Kiowa JSK Gustaf, Patriot-16 points
5-M's Free Lance, Floyd & Porter-11 points
6-Midnight Light, D'Arcy-18 points
7-Mohican Mink Mae, J.E. O'Donnell-32 points
8-Greta's Shanghai, Capabal-13 points

Kelsos Ace High wins again and remains undefeated in Distance Classic series

Wednesday night Lester Raines kennel's star 660-yard racer Kelsos Ace High scored a back-to-back win in round two of the Distance Classic. Kelsos Ace High along with J. E. O'Donnell kennel's Mohican Mink Mae are the only undefeated contenders that moved on to round three. Kelsos Ace High is the season win leader scoring his 13th win this year and a fifth in a row over the 660-yard course. Owned by John Kelly of NJ Kelsos Ace High leads the sweet sixteen into two more rounds before the April 9 final. Before the series Ace High was named the stakes favorite and has not let his fans down. Trainer Ken Lesperance kicked off the second round with a victory in race four with the dual distance Fall Juvenile champion USS Gazillionair. McAllister kennel's Flying Masago's win in race six guaranteed him a pass into the next two rounds. Wrapping up the night was a victory by O'Donnell kennel's Mohican Mink Mae for trainer John Graham that pulled off a back to back win. RC Johnny Lobo and Hammered Tight are tied with 10 points each and will be decided in a draw by lot Thursday night.
Below are the sweet 16 in POINT order. A tie with 10 points each for the last slot. The round three draw will be held Thursday night March 31 and will be posted right here immediately following at approximately 7:30pm, est.

Kelsos Ace High, Lester Raines-32 points
Mohican Mink Mae, J.E. O'Donnell-32 points
Bow Timeless, Abernathy-26 points
USS Gazillionair, Lester Raines-24 points
Flying Masago, McAllister-22 points
Kiowa Sky Selma, J.E. O'Donnell-18 points
Midnight Light, D'Arcy-18 points
Magic Finch, Abernathy-18 points
Kiowa JSK Gustaf, Patriot-16 points
Turbo Austin, McAllister-16 points
Hi Noon Maestro, Nova-13 points
Greta's Shanghai, Capabal-13 points
TMC's Pistol, J.E. O'Donnell-11 points
Waubun Queen B, Floyd & Porter-11 points
M's Free Lance, Floyd & Porter-11 points

RC Johnny Lobo, Capabal-10 points
Hammered Tight, Red Oak-10 points

Distance Classic favorite Kelsos Ace High seeks 5 straight in race 8 Wednesday night
field will be sliced to 16
The second round of the Distance Classic will be held in races 4,6,8 and 10 Wednesday night March 30. Lester Raines kennel's leading favorite Kelsos Ace High will seek a second set of winning points and a fifth in a row over the 660-yard course. Ace High continued his winning spree in round one producing another powerful performance. Round two has paved the way for Abernathy kennel's Bow Timeless to grab another set of win points, but he must first beat USS Gazillionair who will no doubt be among the betting favorites in race four. The sixth race features the WV invader Midnight Light and Waubun Queen B-both collected runner-up points in round one. Kelsos Ace High will face-off with round one winner Kiowa Sky Selma in race eight. The final heat of the night will be featured in race ten Wednesday where Mohican Mink Mae hopes to score a second victory. She drew the two post against M's Free Lance and Magic Finch-both major threats. The field will be sliced to the top 16 that will compete in two more rounds leading up to the April 9 stakes race final. Below are the official races in post position order for Wednesday night March 30.

Kelsos Ace High continues winning spree in Distance Classic quest
The first round of the Distance Classic is in the books. The leading favorite Kelsos Ace High (Kelsos Fusileer x Kelsos Picilino) did not disappoint his fans. The season win leader and the fastest 660-yard athlete gave another memorable performance in race 10 Saturday night March 26. His victory is a must see race showing the sheer determination of this champion male and why he is the leading favorite in the stakes. Trained by Ken Lesperance Ace High was blocked several times and still turned in a victory to collect his first set of win points and four in a row. John Graham scored a pair of wins for the J. E. O’Donnell kennel with Kiowa Sky Selma and Mohican Mink Mae. Abernathy kennel’s Bow Timeless brought home winning points for trainer Kayruth Abernathy.
Kelsos Ace High is leading Classic favorite
Lester Raines kennel’s top dog and Distance Classic favorite will seek his first set of winning points in the first of four qualifying rounds in the 52^nd annual Distance Classic Saturday night March 26. Two greyhounds controlled the Distance Classic in the past four years. Vince Berland’s Flyin Bridgeport won the race in 2007 and 2008 earning him a slot on the All-America Team and the Flashy Sir award for McAllister kennel. TMC’s Remedy, owned by Eddie and Rhonda McDonald, followed suit with back to back Distance Classic wins in 09 and 10 landing Remedy on the All-America Team both years for the former Filipelli & O’Donnell kennel. With both greyhounds retired there is no chance of an historic event. However, a win by the leading favorite Kelsos Ace High would be a first time Distance Classic victory for the Lester Raines kennel.

Kelsos Ace High was the runner-up in the December 660-yard challenge. This year he has surpassed all expectations of trainer Ken Lesperance and is currently the season win leader with 11 victories this year. Kelsos Ace High also holds the season’s best distance time of 37.13. Fans watched the male reset it three times in a four-week period. Ace High (Kelsos Fusileer x Kelsos Picilino) is no doubt the leading favorite and his Juvenile stakes winning kennel-mate USS Gazillionair is also competing from the Raines kennel. Other headliners include Knock Out (Nova) who was also a finalist in the December 660-yard stakes. Capabal kennel’s Sweetheart Challenge champion RC Johnny Lobo is also in the lineup as well as the fall Sprint runner-up TMC’s Pistol and 660-yard finalist Kiowa Sky Selma-both from J. E. O’Donnell kennel. Charter kennel’s Strike Out King who generated a buzz earlier this year has moved back to the longer course and Wheeling’s former marathon track record holder Midnight Light (D’Arcy) is also a popular entry. The first round races will be held Saturday night March 26 and featured in races 4,6,8 and 10. Greyhounds will earn points for their finishes and compete in round two Wednesday night March 30. The field will be sliced to sixteen and two more rounds will produce the top eight for the April 9 stakes race final.

Hi Noon Renegade seeks six in a row Thursday night
Kelsos Ace High tunes up for Distance Classic

Derby Lane’s Sprint Classic champion Hi Noon Renegade continues to shine the brightest over the 550-yard course and will seek six in a row Thursday night in race 10. The soon to be two year-old brindle male is making the "nay sayers" repent who wrote him off in the stakes race. The son of the late Dodgem By Design and Bryan’s Baby gave another impressive performance last Saturday night and was not denied the win. He was pressured throughout and did not give it up to collect his eighth win this season. Renegade was not taken seriously when he entered the Sprint Classic, but won the stakes as the youngest entry this year. Track Announcer and Program Handicapper Jim Peake has installed Renegade as the program favorite. Cool Pinto Bay (Charter kennel) is also in the race and is going for four in a row. Pinto Bay moved up from grade D. Kiowa Lazy Lott (Raines) that pressured Renegade is also in the Thursday night field.

Distance Classic watch: Kelsos Ace High (Kelsos Fusileer x Kelsos Picilino) won his 11^th race of the year Wednesday night leaving the field in a nine and a half-length wake. Ace High remains "top dog" of the meet with 11 wins. Ace High is trained by Ken Lesperance of the Lester Raines kennel and is the leading favorite in the Distance Classic stakes that starts Saturday night March 26. Ace High’s record this year is 19/11-2-0-2. The draw for the first round will be featured on Vera’s News tonight with a sneak peek at the races and posts.

Hi Noon Renegade makes it five straight
Kelsos Ace High preps for Distance Classic

Derby Lane’s Sprint Classic champion Hi Noon Renegade is not about to give up his place in the spotlight. Saturday night March 19 the soon to be two year-old brindle male added another win to his young portfolio. The son of the late Dodgem By Design whelped from Bryan’s Baby gave an exceptional performance and was not going to be denied his 13th career win. He boasts a career record of 29/13-4-5-0. Renegade was not taken seriously when he entered the Sprint Classic, but won the stakes as the youngest entry this year. Renegade went "paw to paw" with the seasoned veteran Aerial Battle Saturday and held off the late pressure of Kiowa Lazy Lott to record a fifth consecutive win. According to trainer Rosa Gibbs the 70-pound Renegade is her top choice for the Gold Trophy Juvenile in May. Renegade will turn two years-old next month. His litter-brother Hi Noon Rebel followed his brother’s "paw prints" on track Saturday by recording a win in the race following Renegade’s victory.

Other news: Kelsos Ace High (Kelsos Fusileer x Kelsos Picilino) won his 10^th race of the year Saturday to become the "top dog" of the meet thus far. Ace High is trained by Ken Lesperance of the Lester Raines kennel and is the leading favorite in the Distance Classic stakes that starts Saturday night March 26. Ace High’s record this year is 18/10-2-0-2.

Hi Noon Renegade goes for five straight Saturday
Kelsos Ace High & Midnight Light give Classic preview Saturday
Play Derby Lane Fantasy greyhounds. Enter your selections before 7:00 pm Saturdays at
http://www.kcimagemakers.com/greyhound.html

Derby Lane's Sprint Classic champion Hi Noon Renegade (Dodgem By Design x Bryan's Baby) is looking to extend his winning streak Saturday night March 19 in race 10. The Nova kennel star collected four in a row Wednesday in a box to wire seven-length romp winning his seventh race of the year and boasting 11 of 14 money finishes. Saturday night the stakes winning male faces off with Capabal kennel's 2010 All-America Team II member Aerial Battle (Dodgem By Design x Abita Cruzin) who marked his 50th career win earlier this week.

Other news: The Victor Hall trained Patriot kennel is holding on to a big lead in the kennel standings. They are 20 wins in front of McAllister who has also moved into second place with 110 wins. Vincent and Phyllis Savill who will be among the attendees at the upcoming NGA meet next month own Patriot kennel. Floyd & Porter kennel is four wins behind McAllister in third place followed by Red Oak Racing and J. E. O'Donnell making up the top five kennels heading into the weekend.

Distance Classic watch: Fans attending the races Saturday night will also get a Distance Classic preview when the 660-yard win leader and early favorite Kelsos Ace High (Raines kennel) and the Wheeling invader Midnight Light (D'Arcy) go "paw to paw" in race eight. Ace High has nine wins for the year and Midnight Light scored her first win earlier this week, also boasting a perfect money record since her debut last month. Round one of the Distance Classic begins Saturday night March 26.

Happy St. Patrick's Day
Hi Noon Renegade continues winning spree
Aerial Battle records 50^th win
Distance Classic watch
Flying Coal City's brother Flying Culloden in the news at Wheeling by Stan Pawloski
While Derby Lane's Flying Coal City was cast in the national spotlight recently with his post-season honors, one of his littermates is lighting up the board at Wheeling Island. Flying Culloden isn't flashy like his All-American brother, but he's been steady and solid throughout his career - the consummate blue collar worker. Since late December, the sprinter has been noticed. Click link for full story. Congratulations Flying Culloden
http://www.timesleaderonline.com/page/content.detail/id/529638/Culloden-makes-name-for-himself-at-Wheeling.html?nav=5013

Nova kennel’s recent Sprint Classic champion Hi Noon Renegade kept his winning streak going Wednesday matinee March 16 when the male romped in a seven-length victory. Renegade (Dodgem By Design x Bryan’s Baby) broke on top from post eight and never looked back for an easy victory. Renegade is owned by Charles Haliburton, III of CO. Renegade was highly underestimated in the stakes final despite the fact that he won two of the four qualifiers. The 70-pound male is on a roll and now boasts 11 of 14 money finishes for the year with seven wins. Renegade is a 550-yard athlete and will be sitting out the next stakes, which is the Distance Classic. However, Renegade will be among the Nova entries for the 550-yard Gold Trophy Juvenile that begins in May.

Capabal kennel’s Aerial Battle (Dodgem By Design x Abita Cruzin) marked his 50^th win Tuesday night March 15. The 2010 Team II All-American was the betting favorite Tuesday and didn’t disappoint his fans. Owned by John Bladen of OK the 79-pound brindle athlete boasts a career record of 111/50-19-14-6 according to Rosnet’s IG.A.P. report. Battle was a young star at Twin Rivers before invading Derby Lane where he was in the running for the 2010 North America win title before being sidelined with a stopper injury. According to Capabal kennel manager Henry Parker Aerial Battle has performed above expectations in his return. Earlier this month he was a second time finalist in the Sprint Classic and in January Aerial Battle defended his title in the Matinee Idol where he was a respectable runner-up.

Distance Classic watch: Yesterday's news highlighted Wheeling import Midnight Light who will be D'Arcy kennel's top entry for the upcoming Distance Classic. Midnight Light is a former marathon track record holder from WV and showcased her late speed ability Wednesday night (Mar. 16) in race 8, as she drove from last to first stealing the win at the wire. Also 2010 Distance Classic finalist Knock Out (Nova kennel) won his distance race Wednesday night.

Sprint Classic champ Hi Noon Renegade goes for 4 today March 16
Patriot pulling away in standings
Distance Classic watch
Nova kennel’s Hi Noon Renegade (Dodgem By Design x Bryan’s Baby) is going for four in a row Wednesday matinee March 16. The recent Sprint Classic champion continued his winning spree after collecting the trophy and winner’s purse in the March 5 stakes. Renegade has 10 of 13 money finishes this meet. Owned by Charles Haliburton, III of CO, the 70-pound male has been installed as the program favorite in race six. The matinee race will run at approximately 1:39 pm, est.

Patriot pulling away: Patriot kennel has put out the Red Oak fire and is pulling away in the kennel standings. Trained by Victory Hall the kennel is back on top and according to the most recent list they are 18 wins in front of McAllister who is also a former top kennel. Floyd and Porter that won six races last Saturday moved into third place followed by Red Oak and J. E. O’Donnell making up the top five kennels.

Distance Classic watch: Trainers are stretching their hounds to evaluate, which of their stars will be the top picks for the upcoming Distance Classic that begins March 26. Wednesday night several athletes will course the 660-yards for the first time this year. In race six TMC's Pistol, Strike It Up and Mohican Mink Mae face Fall Juvenile champ USS Gazillionair who was also moved to the longer distance and won his first start out. In race eight D’Arcy kennel’s Midnight Light is also one to watch for the upcoming stakes. The Wheeling import set a track record over the WV distance course and boasts a 100% money record for owner Ryan Farms kennel of KS since her Derby Lane debut on February 18.

Last year TMC’s Remedy made history by becoming the fourth greyhound in the history of the Distance Classic to record a back-to-back win. The retired Remedy was also named to the 2010 All-America Team for a second consecutive year for owners Eddie and Rhonda McDonald of TX. Flying Coal City who swept the national awards was a frontrunner for the upcoming stakes. Coal City is off the active list and in KS where he will receive his awards next month. Coal City’s biggest nemesis Kelsos Ace High is the leading favorite. John Kelly of NJ owns Kelsos Ace High. The sensational male has been on fire of late and reset the season’s best 660-yard three times in a month for the Lester Raines kennel. Ace High (Kelsos Fusileer x Kelsos Picilino) also holds six of the ten best distance times this year. Ace High is also the co-wins champ this season sharing nine wins for the meet with Charter kennel’s Odd Inspector who is owned by Linda Jones of KS.

Mohican Mink Mae halts Titleist's streak
Floyd & Porter collect 6 wins Saturday matinee
Hi Noon Maestro & USS Gazillionair tune up for Distance Classic

The new week is underway after a big Saturday. J. E. O'Donnell kennel's Mohican Mink Mae (Heart Rumble* x Kiowa Mysticmink) halted the streak of JW Titleist Saturday night who was seeking five in a row. Titleist gave a winning effort finishing second in race ten for Capabal kennel. Before the night card Floyd & Porter kennel ruled the matinee card with six winners of the fifteen races. Five of the six winners- all with the prefix M's are owned by Lamar Porter who is also co-owner of KB's Ruckus, a 2010 All-American that races in WV. M's Motown Tina, Glaze Over, Free Agent, Crazy Guy and Black Barry are Porter's. The sixth winner Dollars Too Fold is owned by Porter's kennel partner Randy Floyd.

The trainers are getting their distance athletes ready for the richest 660-yard purse of the season when their star performers line-up in the first round of the Distance Classic on March 26. Saturday night Hi Noon Maestro (Nova kennel) and USS Gazillionair (Lester Raines) won their distance races. Both greyhounds have faced-off in a stakes. Last November both stars competed in the Fall Juvenile. Maestro competed in four rounds, but was eliminated in semifinals. Gazillionair was the winner of the stakes. Both males are eyeing the upcoming stakes. Raines has a leading favorite Kelsos Ace High who has reset the season's best time over the 660-yards three times in the past month. D'Arcy kennel's invader Midnight Light clocked a track record at Wheeling and appears to be adapting to the Derby Lane oval quite nicely with a 100% money record since her February 18 Derby Lane debut.

JW Titleist goes for 5 in a row Saturday Night
Midnight Light one to watch for upcoming Distance Classic
Play Derby Lane Fantasy greyhounds. Enter your selections before 7:00 pm Saturdays at
http://www.kcimagemakers.com/greyhound.html

Capabal kennel's JW Titleist (Dave The Dog x Abita Cruzin) is on a roll and is going for five straight Saturday night. The 75-pound male owned by John Bladen and Walter Wasik is 10 of 16 in the money this year. He will face-off with the program favorite Turbo Laird (McAllister) who is seeking the hat trick in the same tenth race Saturday night.Before that race keep your eye on Midnight Light (D'Arcy). She is an import from Wheeling that set the distance track record in WV for Ryan Farms kennel. She is a favorite in the upcoming Distance Classic. Round one begins March 26.

Flying Coal City removed from active list
KS bound for award ceremony

It’s official. Flying Coal City has left the building! America’s most revered greyhound Flying Coal City was taken off the active list at Derby Lane immediately following his March 9 race. "It was obvious that Coal wasn’t himself and that something was wrong," said kennel owner Malcolm McAllister. There was no question that Coal City was not running his usual race when the male was out in front heading into the homestretch, but dropped way back finishing ten lengths behind at the wire. "Coal was blazing on the lead, but started struggling late. That is when Lester Raines kennel’s Kelsos Ace High passed him on the outside and won by ten lengths in a new season’s best 660-yard time. "Ace High is an awesome greyhound and when I saw the two of them out early I figured there would be a speedy time. Those two are exciting when they go at it, but it was obvious that Coal was lame in the homestretch," said McAllister.

Coal City's trainer Barbara McAllister was waiting for her star after the race and was gracious enough to allow out of state fans that came to the races just to see Coal City take their photo with him. Vince Berland confirmed via telephone that he would be receiving the National award winner this upcoming weekend. "This is a good time for Coal City to take a break from racing," said Berland. "We have the facilities for him to heal and also to draw him while he is recovering." Berland also confirmed that Flying Coal City will miss the Distance Classic and added that it was too early to confirm any rumor of retirement. Berland was excited to announce that Coal would be receiving the All-America Captain, Rural Rube and Flashy Sir awards in person at the Greyhound Hall of Fame in Abilene, KS on April 21. "The people love when they get to see the greyhound that is getting the awards," said Berland who is absolutely correct. It is moving when the greyhound is actually on stage. Previous greyhounds that attended their ceremony that this writer was present at include EJ’s Douglas, Talentedmrripley, Flying Stanley and Soprano Drive.

Kelsos Ace High lowers season’s best again
For the third time in a month Lester Raines kennel’s distance star Kelsos Ace High (Kelsos Fusileer x Kelsos Picilino) lowered the 660-yard time. Ace High started his speed spree on February 9 recording a 37.27. Three days later the 76-pound male ran a length faster setting a new time of 37.20. Wednesday night March 9, Kelsos Ace High erased the 37.20 with a new 37.13. Ace High broke third and was making up ground on Flying Coal City who took charge early, but gave way to a shoulder injury in the homestretch. Coal City went from a length lead in the homestretch to ten lengths behind the leader for second. Kelsos Ace High blew past Coal City for a ten-length victory. Ace High is an early favorite in the upcoming Distance Classic that begins March 26. John Kelly of NJ owns Kelsos Ace High.
Other news: It has been confirmed that Flying Coal City has been taken off the active list and may be heading to KS to nurse a shoulder injury. An official decision will be made by Friday March 11.　

Nova kennel's Hi Noon Renegade wins Sprint Classic

Nova kennel owners Hans and Elly Limmer were all smiles in the winner's circle when their young star Hi Noon Renegade captured the Derby Lane Sprint Classic saturday night March 5. The youngest in the field stole the show with an exceptional performance.Photo L to R: Derby Lane Vice-President Richard Winning, Hans and Elly Limmer, Rosa Gibbs, Austin Murphy and Justin Monaghan. Front Stephanie Monaghan, Richie Shannon and Gale Murphy. Leadout is Ramon Durand with the champion Hi Noon Renegade. The stakes winner was whelped and raised by Phyllis Shuffield and finished by Hans' son Peter Limmer. Both live in Texas. Hi Noon Renegade is the son of 2002 Sprint Classic and All-American Dodgem By Design. And Renegade's mother Bryan's Baby is the litter-sister to the 2006 Million Dollar finalist Joe Hearns. Renegade continues the family legacy. Owned by Charles Haliburton, III of Colorado the 70-pound Renegade went box to wire and held off the late challenge of Campbell kennel's Backwood Cody. TMC's Pistol took third followed by M's Free Hand that completed the superfecta. The betting favorite Aerial Battle gave a winning effort until the homestretch but was overtaken for sixth. Kiowa Class King ran fifth and his kennel-mate Kiowa JSK Gustaf was seventh. Odd Inspector was denied the rail and finished last. The Sprint Classic photo will be on the site Monday. Congratulations again to all the connections of the Nova kennel. We have not seen the last of this fine athlete. Hi Noon Renegade is eligible for the Gold Trophy Juvenile. Nova kennel is the defending champions. They won last year's race with LS Jack Williams.

Coal City gets great birthday news
sweeps national awards

Just a day after Flying Coal City celebrated his third birthday the National Greyhound Association released an announcement (March 4) that Flying Coal City swept the awards. The son of former Rural Rube and All American Kiowa Sweet Trey whelped from Flying Crestline surpassed his father’s "paw prints" by winning both the Rural Rube and Flashy Sir awards for his outstanding dual distance 2010 performances. The National Greyhound Association members voted from a list of outstanding greyhounds from tracks across the country that excelled over the sprint and distance courses. Flying Coal City not only won stakes races over both distances, the male won the majority of his top grade races during stakes race competitions. And despite a month layoff from a minor injury Flying Coal City nearly captured the North America wins title. Derby Lane is proud of Flying Coal City, TMC’s Remedy and Aerial Battle-all named All-Americans for 2010. Watch Aerial Battle compete in the Sprint Classic Saturday night March 5. He has been installed as the race favorite from post 2. Photo right Flying Coal City. Photo by Vera Rasnake

POSTS DRAWN FOR 36TH ANNUAL SPRINT CLASSIC
SATURDAY NIGHT MARCH 5, RACE 10
IN POST POSITION ORDER
1-Kiowa JSK Gustaf, Patriot
2-Aerial Battle, Capabal
3-Kiowa Class King, Patriot
4-M's Free Hand, Floyd & Porter
5-Backwood Cody, Campbell
6-Hi Noon Renegade, Nova
7-TMC's Pistol, J. E. O'Donnell
8-Odd Inspector, Charter

Watch Larry the Cable Guy "Only in America" as he visits the Mobile Greyhound track in Alabama.
http://www.history.com/videos/only-in-america-with-larry-the-cable-guy-larry-races-dogs

Field set for March 5 Sprint Classic
Semifinals on Wednesday night produced the elite eight for this year's Sprint Classic. The stakes will be the tenth race feature Saturday night. Aerial Battle (Capabal) topped the list with a victory in semifinals that earned him a total of 52 points in the series. Aerial Battle was the runner-up in last year's race and will get a second shot at the title. Odd Inspector (Charter) was also a finalist in last year's race and is also hoping to get his shot at the title. TMC's Pistol (J. E. O'Donnell) was the runner-up in the Fall Sprint and could win his first stakes competition. Below are the eight finalists in POINT order. The post draw will take place Thursday night March 3 and will be posted here immediately afterwards.
Aerial Battle, Capabal-52 points
M's Free Hand, Floyd & Porter-45 points
Hi Noon Renegade, Nova-42 points
Kiowa JSK Gustaf, Patriot-36 points
Odd Inspector, Charter-35 points
Backwood Cody, Campbell-32 points
TMC's Pistol, J. E. O'Donnell-30 points
Kiowa Class King, Patriot-30 points
If a substitute is needed it would be M's Free Agent, Floyd & Porter-23 points

Flying Coal City and TMC’s Remedy waiting for announcement

Derby Lane stakes champions Flying Coal City and TMC’s Remedy are waiting impatiently for the NGA announcement naming the Rural Rube (best sprinter) and Flashy Sir (top distance) athletes. Each year members of the National Greyhound Association vote on their favorites. On February 21 Derby Lane dual distance superstar Flying Coal City was named All-America Team Captain by the AGTOA, depicting the best athlete in America. Derby Lane fans along with Coal City lovers around the globe were thrilled to learn the news. Coal City, a.k.a. "Coal Train" is up for both Rural Rube and Flashy Sir awards. TMC’s Remedy was a multiple 660-yard stakes winner and has "paws crossed" that his biggest nemesis won’t hog the awards. The Rural Rube and Flashy Sir winners are expected to be announced later this week at http://www.ngagreyhounds.com/
Good luck to our Derby Dogs.

Posts drawn for Sprint Classic semifinal Wednesday night
Top two "Battle" for points in race 10
Please remember the family of St. Petersburg slain officer David Crawford in your prayers as he is laid to rest Tuesday March 1. Ofc Crawford was killed in the line of duty by a 16 year old boy on Feb. 21.
Ofc Crawford was a 25-year veteran of the police force and is the third policeman fatally shot in the past month in St. Petersburg.

Wednesday night's (Feb. 23) Sprint Classic Round Two has been drawn (below).
Round two of the Sprint Classic has been drawn and the dogs are in post position order. Only 16 greyhounds will advance after this Wednesday night’s competition. Flying Coal City who was named the best greyhound athlete in North America today for his outstanding year in 2010 is under pressure to defend his title. Coal City must turn in a stellar performance in order to continue to pursue a back to back Sprint Classic title. Below are the round two races in post order. Good Luck everyone!
Wednesday night February 23
Race 4 – Round #2 Sprint Classic
1-KB’s Kazoo, Royal Racing
2-Magic Finch, Abernathy
3-M’s Dream Catch, Magic City-Mighty Fine
4-Hi Noon Renegade, Nova
5-PD Dark Express, Cal Holland
6-M’s Free Agent, Floyd & Porter
7-Starz Batista, Alderson
8-LL’s Dormarbuddy, Capabal

Wednesday night February 23
Race 6 – Round #2 Sprint Classic
1-M’s Free Hand, Floyd & Porter
2-Flying Coal City, McAllister
3-Backwood Cody, Campbell
4-Celtic Dream, D’Arcy
5-Mohican Mink Mae, O’Donnell
6-TFN McKenzie, Alderson
7-Manicotti Manny, Royal Racing
8-Cool Pinto Bay, Charter
Wednesday night February 23
Race 8 – Round #2 Sprint Classic
1-Kiowa JSK Gustaf, Patriot
2-Chugalugger, Magic City – Mighty Fine
3-Magic Smoke, Abernathy
4-SE’s Wired, Red Oak
5-Backwood Amigo, Campbell
6-Sovereign Gold, D’Arcy
7-Odd Inspector, Charter
8-Kiowa Lazy Lazy, Raines
Wednesday night February 23
Race 10 – Round #2 Sprint Classic
1-Kiowa Class King, Patriot
2-Alan Green, Cal Holland
3-USS Gazillionair, Raines
4-EL Mossy Oak, Nova
5-Aerial Battle, Capabal
6-Mesa Backstop, Red Oak
7-TMC’s Pistol, O’Donnell
8-Flying Skillful, McAllister

BREAKING NEWS MONDAY FEBRUARY 21, 2011 2:44pm,est.
FLYING COAL CITY named Captain of 2010 All-America Team
Just moments ago the 2010 All America Team was announced at the AGTOA meeting in Las Vegas. Derby Lane's Flying Coal City tops the list as America's best greyhound in 2010. The dual distance phenom won the Sprint Classic, Fall Sprint and T. L. Weaver Memorial over the 550-yards. He won the 660-yard challenge and just missed winning the Distance Classic by a nose and placed second in the St. Petersburg Derby. TMC's Remedy, who won the Classic and Derby was also named to the Team. Aerial Battle was named to the All America Team II. Congratulations. For full story click on All American's link at
http://www.ngagreyhounds.com/News.asp

Upsets prevail in first round Sprint Classic
Odd Inspector fastest sprinter in first round Classic series
All-America Team to be announced Monday
Round #2 Sprint Classic peek listed here Monday night
Saturday night (Feb. 19) saw the first round of the Sprint Classic where the favorites were beaten in all four heats. First up McAllister kennel upset the field in race four with Flying Skillful. The 58-pound female held her own scoring the top points and paying $23.20 to win upsetting the Fall Juvenile and last week’s Rotary Governor’s champion USS Gazillionair. The second heat in race six saw Aerial Battle and KB’s Kazoo go "paw to paw" until the homestretch where it looked like Battle would take the win. Floyd & Porter kennel’s M’s Free Agent snatched the win away from the bet favorite Aerial Battle at the wire to pay $11.20 for the win. Kazoo was outrun in the stretch and settled for fifth.

Race eight saw Charter kennel’s Odd Inspector take charge in the backstretch and win easily recording the fastest first round time of 30.60. Inspector paid $13.60 for his win. The final heat of the night saw Sprint Classic defender Flying Coal City crowded early then bumped in the first turn forcing the male to settle for sixth place. Flying Coal City returned last week after suffering a minor injury after winning the Inaugural. He is the defending Sprint Classic champion and will be under pressure in round two Wednesday night. Patriot’s kennel’s Kiowa Class King was the upset that paid $29.60 to win over Coal City. Below are the greyhounds in POINT order. The draw for round two will be Monday night. Vera’s News will have the sneak peek before they go to print at approximately 7:30 pm, est.
16 Points:  Flying Skillful (McAllister),M’s Free Agent (Floyd & Porter),Odd Inspector (Charter),
Kiowa Class King (Patriot)
10 Points: TMC’s Pistol (O’Donnell),Aerial Battle (Capabal),Celtic Dream (D’Arcy),PD Dark Express (Cal Holland)
8 Points: Backwood Cody (Campbell),Mohican Mink Mae (O’Donnell),Alan Green (Cal Holland),
Sovereign Gold (D’Arcy)
6 Points: Kiowa JSK Gustaf (Patriot),Backwood Amigo (Campbell),Kiowa Lazy Lazy (Raines),
El Mossy Oak (Nova)
3 Points: USS Gazillionair (Raines),KB’s Kazoo (Royal Racing),M’s Free Hand (Floyd & Porter),
Magic Smoke (Abernathy)
2 Points: Magic Finch (Abernathy),Chugalugger (Magic City-Mighty Fine),Hi Noon Renegade (Nova),Flying Coal City (McAllister)
1 Point: Mesa Backstop (Red Oak),Cool Pinto Bay (Charter),TFN McKenzie (Alderson),Se’s Wired (Red Oak)
0 Points: M’s Dream Catch (Magic City-Mighty Fine),Starz Batista (Alderson),LL’s Dormarbuddy (Capabal),Manicotti Manny (Royal Racing)

Other news: The American Greyhound Track Operator’s Association (AGTOA) will announce the eighth-member All America Team Monday February 21 at their meeting in Las Vegas. Derby Lane hopefuls Flying Coal City, TMC’s Remedy, Aerial Battle and Kiowa Lazy Lazy have "paws" crossed.
Mark your calendars for the 10th annual Greyhound Pets of America Tampa Bay Poker Run for Sunday April 17th. See you there. Click on the link for more information.
http://www.runwiththebigdogstampabay.com/

Favored Flying Coal City begins quest for Sprint Classic repeat.. Click link to read the coverage in the St. Petersburg Times
http://www.tampabay.com/sports/horseracing/favored-flying-coal-city-begins-quest-for-sprint-classic-title-at-derby/1152487

Join Derby Lane fans Saturday night from across the nation and see how well you can pick a winner. Just submit your picks. Do not have to follow the races to enter. Click the link for all the details. http://www.kcimagemakers.com/greyhound.html

Flying Coal City draws 4 post in round one of Sprint Classic
The races are drawn and greyhounds in post for the Sprint Classic stakes that begins Saturday night February 19. McAllister kennel’s Flying Coal City is back to defend his title after a minor injury sidelined him after he won the Inaugural stakes last month. The first rounds will be featured in races 4,6,8 & 10. Greyhounds will earn the following points for finishes. The second round will be Wed. night February 23 where the field will be sliced to 16. Point totals. A win = 16, 2^nd = 10, 3^rd = 8, 4^th = 6, 5^th = 3, 6^th = 2, 7^th = 1 and 8^th = 0.
Round #1 Sprint Classic – ALL RACES IN POST POSITION ORDER
Race 4 - Saturday Feb. 19 Eve.
1-Mesa Backstop, Red Oak
2-TMC’s Pistol, O’Donnell
3-M’s Dream Catcher, Magic City-Mighty Fine
4-Flying Skillful, McAllister
5-USS Gazillionair, Lester Raines
6-Magic Finch, Abernathy
7-Kiowa JSK Gustaf, Patriot
8-Backwood Cody, Campbell

Round #1 Sprint Classic
Race 6 - Saturday Feb. 19 Eve.
1-Aerial Battle, Capabal
2-Backwood Amigo, Campbell
3-Mohican Mink Mae, O’Donnell
4-Cool Pinto Bay, Charter
5-M’s Free Agent, Floyd & Porter
6-Chugalugger, Magic City – Mighty Fine
7-Starz Batista, Alderson
8-KB’s Kazoo, Royal Racing Team
Round #1 Sprint Classic
Race 8 - Saturday Feb. 19 Eve
1-Alan Green, Cal Holland
2-M’s Free Hand, Floyd & Porter
3-Celtic Dream, D’Arcy
4-LL’s Dormarbuddy, Capabal
5-Odd Inspector, Charter
6-Hi Noon Renegade, Nova
7-Kiowa Lazy Lazy, Lester Raines
8-Tfn Mckenzie, Alderson
Round #1 Sprint Classic
Race 10 - Saturday Feb. 19 Eve
1-Sovereign Gold, D’Arcy
2-Manicotti Manny, Royal Racing Team
3-Se’s Wired, Red Oak
4-Flying Coal City, McAllister
5-Kiowa Class King, Patriot
6-PD Dark Express, Cal Holland
7-EL Mossy Oak, Nova
8-Magic Smoke, Abernathy

RC Johnny Lobo upsets in Sweet Heart Challenge
Capabal Kennel’s RC Johnny Lobo (Night Bandit x Fuzzys Raven) kept the battle of the sexes in the male corner when he nudged out HWJ Isabella at the wire in the Sweet Heart Challenge Saturday night February 12. The race featured four males against four females and was a prelude to the Diamond Necklace giveaway that followed the eighth race feature. Assistant Trainer Gudrun Schieder accepted the winning trophy for the Capabal kennel. "I knew he (Johnny Lobo) could do it," Schieder said. "I am so proud of my boy." RC Johnny Lobo is owned by George Heise of PA. Media Relations Director Vera Rasnake presented the winning trophy to Gudrun Schieder (photo right). Noel Barnett is the leadout presenting RC Johnny Lobo.

Last year All-American and Flashy Sir runner-up TMC’s Remedy scored the win for the males. This year Charter kennel’s Isabelle almost took the trophy away from the males. Mohican Mink Mae was the betting favorite in the race. She was seeking four in a row. Mae was blocked early and finished a respectable fourth. RC Johnny Lobo closed to win and paid $8.80 to win. HWJ Isabelle returned $11.00 to place. McAllister’s Turbo Laird finished third followed by Mink Mae (J. E. O’Donnell) that completed the superfecta 2-1-4-5 worth $685.70. Rooftop Slim To (Cal Holland), Hookem Kaleigh (D’Arcy), Figs Destry (Red Oak) and Danicas Go Daddy (Floyd & Porter) finished fifth through eighth place.

BREAKING NEWS FEB. 15 6:30 am, est.
Fire Marshall on scene at Derby Lane after kennel fire broke out this morning. All Greyhounds involved are fine and have been moved to another location. They will be scratched from racing tonight to resettle in their new kennel.

Kelsos Ace High resets season's best
What a Saturday for trainer Ken Lesperance of the Lester Raines kennel. Just three days after clocking a 37.37 Kelsos Ace High (Kelsos Fusileer x Kelsos Picilino) drew away from the field and reset his own time by a full length. The 77-pound male took charge early and won easily by five lengths resetting the 660-yard season's best time to 37.20. Ace High is owned by John Kelly of NJ and was the runner-up in the December 660-yard challenge.

Ace High is among the stars that rocketed Raines to the top of the charts that gave them their first kennel championship at Derby Lane in 2010. Ace High has won top grade over both 550 and 660-yard courses. The Raines kennel's top distance performer is currently their top choice for the next distance feature. The 660-yard Distance Classic series will begin March 26 and conclude April 9. But first, fans will be enticed by the Sprint Classic (550) that starts Saturday night February 19.

Raines repeats in Rotary Governor’s race
Improve your handicapping skills by joining other Derby Lane fans in the Fantasy Greyhound game. Click the link for more details
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It was a Rotary repeat for trainer Ken Lesperance of the Lester Raines kennel that won the 7^th annual Rotary Governor’s hot-box feature Saturday matinee February 12. USS Gazillionair who won the November Fall Juvenile stakes was the best of the bunch again when he scored the win in the feature. Last year Cold Fusion won the race. "Both Fusion and Gazillionair have the same racing style," said Lesperance who was all smiles in the photo (above) when presented the trophy by Ed Odom, District Governor 6890. Photo L to R: Linda Vincent District Governor 6950, Ed Odom District Governor 6890, Ken Lesperance trainer/kennel manager, Gene Stern Director of Rotary Goes To The Dogs, Jeff Fee Director of S4TL. The leadout with USS Gazillionair is Devin Alderson.

Floyd & Porter’s M’s Free Hand (1) was the betting favorite and put forth a winning effort to finish second in the race. Gazillionair wasn’t far behind in the odds making Gazillionair and Free Hand the quiniela favorites. Deco Bull Rum (Capabal) who was also in the 2010 Rotary Governor’s race finished third followed by Kiowa Class King (Patriot) that made up the 2-4-5-3 superfecta worth $122.70. Fifth through eighth was Broncs (Red Oak), Kwik N Dirty (Campbell), Alan Green (Cal Holland) and Flying Muirfield (McAllister).

According to Lesperance USS Gazillionair will also be among the kennel entries in the upcoming Sprint Classic that starts next Saturday night February 19. McAllister kennel’s Flying Coal City won the stakes last year and will be back to defend his title. Flying Coal City kicked off the New Year by winning the Inaugural stakes. The dual distance champion was arguably America’s best Greyhound athlete in 2010 and is waiting news regarding the honors. We are too "Coal Train!"

Raines defends title in Rotary Governor’s race
Saturday matinee February 12 Derby Lane features the 7^th annual Rotary Governor’s race in the matinee and the annual Sweetheart Challenge at night. Last year Lester Raines kennel’s Cold Sober won the race. This year Raines kennel’s 2010 Fall Juvenile champion USS Gazillionair will represent the kennel. Track Announcer/Handicapper Jim Peake has installed Floyd & Porter kennel’s M’s Free Hand as the 5-2 favorite in the race. Free Hand was featured in the Matinee Idol and was closing the gap at the finish for a respectable fourth. Red Oak’s Broncs drew the outside eight where he is going for three in a row. The Rotary Governor’s race is the sixth race feature Saturday matinee February 12.

Saturday night the Sweetheart Challenge featuring four males and four females will be featured over the shorter 550-yard course. Last year Filipelli & O’Donnell’s TMC’s Remedy beat his rivals for a male win over the 660-yard course. This year J. E. O’Donnell kennel’s Mohican Mink Mae will seek a female win as she also seeks four in a row over the 550. Mink Mae is Peake's pick in the race to win. HWJ Isabelle, Hookem Kaleigh and Danicas Go Daddy are the females that will face RC Johnny Lobo, Turbo Laird, Figs Destry and Rooftop Slim To in the eighth race feature Saturday night. Fans attending the races will also be eligible for the diamond necklace drawing immediately following the Sweetheart feature.
Other news: Flying Coal City wraps up his schooling requirement February 11 to prepare to defend his title in the Sprint Classic that begins February 19. In the first schooler with Coal City is Wheeling Downs import Midnight Light who set a track record in WV over the marathon course. Midnight Light will race in the D’Arcy kennel. AND Red Oak Racing has taken a four win lead in the kennel standings. McAllister, O'Donnell and Patriot are in a three-way tie for second place with 59 wins each.

Kelso’s Ace High trumps season’s best
Flying Star Wars seeks hat trick in race 1 tonight
Rotary and Sweetheart races will be
listed here first tonight
Kathleen Gilley of Gilley's Dancing
Greyhounds passes
Wednesday night (Feb. 9) Lester Raines kennel’s Kelsos Ace High (Kelsos Fusileer x Kelsos Picilino) clocked a new season’s best time over the 660-yard course edging out the previous 37.31 with a new 37.27. Nova Kennel’s Hi Noon Maestro (Dodgem By Design x Flying Micheel) held the best time of 37.42 and reset it later to 37.31 for trainer Rosa Gibbs. Maestro was in the lead and put forth a winning effort, but was no match for the charging Ace High who won by two and a half-lengths on Feb. 9. Trained by Ken Lesperance the 76-pound male competes at both the 550 and 660-yard courses and has been the betting favorite five of his past six starts. Ace High is among the top dogs in the Raines kennel being considered for the upcoming Sprint Classic that starts February 19.
Other news: Lesperance could also be defending the kennel title on February 12 in the Rotary Governor’s Feature race. Last year the kennel won with Cold Fusion. The Rotary Governor’s feature is Saturday matinee Feb. 12.

Red Oak Racing’s Flying Star Wars (Trojan Cruze x Kay Star Steal) seeks three in a row on his quest to the top of the graded ladder Thursday night Feb. 10. The 75-pound male lived up to his pre-race hype and won his maiden debut by 11 and then came back to win his grade D handily. Rumors were put to rest when questioned about entering the young star in the upcoming Sprint Classic. "Even if he won his next two starts moving him to the top grade Star Wars is too inexperienced for the upcoming Sprint Classic," said trainer Paul Giguere. "He will definitely have enough experience by the time the Gold Trophy Juvenile race starts in May."

Tonight the races for Saturday's double feature will be drawn and will be listed on Vera's News before they go to print. The Rotary Governor's race is Saturday matinee and the Sweetheart Challenge featuring four males and four females will be Saturday night February 12. Fans attending the night races on the 12th will be eligible for the drawing for a Diamond Necklace.

Kathleen Gilley and her husband Gil were the driving force behind Gilley's Dancing Greyhounds. She passed away at her home in Williston FL. She was 62. The Gilley's performed at Derby Lane several years ago. Click on the link then click on the more under Kathleen Gilley's name. http://www.ngagreyhounds.com/News.asp

Flying Coal City aces schooler
Tri Super jackpot starts over $14,000 today Feb. 9
Diamond Necklace Giveaway Sat. Feb. 12
Derby Lane’s dynamic dual distance phenom is back on track and ready to defend his title in the upcoming Sprint Classic that starts February 19. Flying Coal City who captured the Sprint Classic, Fall Sprint and T. L. Weaver stakes along with the 660-yard stakes last year kicked off the New Year by winning the Inaugural last month.  Afterwards he came off with a shoulder injury. Kennel owner Malcolm McAllister was unsure last month if Coal City would be back to defend his title. "He’s back," said McAllister after Coal City aced his schooler in 30.41 by nine lengths.

Flying Coal City will have to school one more time since he was off for more than 30 days. The male will be among the McAllister entries in the starting lineup of the Sprint Classic that begins February 19. Flying Coal City will miss out on the two feature races on February 12. The Rotary Governor’s race will be in the matinee. Last year Cold Fusion won the stakes. At night will be the Sweetheart Challenge featuring four males vs. four females. TMC’s Remedy beat the females and his three male rivals last year.

Join us this Saturday night Feb. 12 for the Sweetheart Challenge race. Who will win the battle of the sexes when four males vs. four females in the feature race. Also fans 18 years of age and older may enter for the Diamond Necklace drawing following the Sweetheart feature.

He's back...Flying Coal City schools Tuesday
One of America's favorite Greyhound athletes will be back on track in official racing soon. Flying Coal City who won the Inaugural stakes last month suffered a minor injury and was sidelined. It looks like the champion dual distance male is on track to defend his title in the upcoming Sprint Classic that begins February 19. Flying Coal City is among an elite group of greyhounds that are being considered for national awards that include Captain of the All America Team, Rural Rube (best sprinter) and Flashy Sir (top distance) greyhound. Coal City's dual distance record was the best in the nation last year and he just missed taking the National win title even after being laid off for nearly six weeks. Coal City a.k.a. "coal train" will be battling another Derby Lane champion TMC's Remedy who won all the distance stakes from Jan. - June of 2010. Flying Coal City did win the 660-yard challenge in December-the richest distance stakes of the year. Coal City's portfolio is unmatched by any dual distance runner in the nation. The All America Team will be announced later this month at the AGTOA meeting and the Rural Rube and Flashy Sir winners will be announced early March. Flying Coal City will school in race 1 Tuesday night February 8 from post 8. The champion will need two official schoolers before he can be entered in an official race.

Patriot back on top
Star Wars lives up to hype
Blossom's pups score wins
Improve your skills and play the fantasy game
The first weeks of the new meet have been exciting. Kennels have hit the gate running this year and only four wins separate the fifth kennel from the top heading into the first week of February. Last week the newest kennel Red Oak, sat on top by a win. I know I have surprised a lot of people," said Robert Lambert that owns Red Oak. "Paul is doing a great job."

Aerial Battle defends title in Matinee Idol stakes Saturday
Join us in the Derby Lane Fantasy Game Saturdays click the link for details
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Saturday afternoon (Jan. 22) is the 27^th running of the $10,000 Matinee Idol stakes to be featured in race eight. Approximate post time for the race is 2:30 pm, est. The stakes was formed to accommodate fans that frequented the afternoon races and rarely ever saw the best sprinters saved for the larger Saturday night crowds. Qualifying rounds were held this past Wednesday afternoon. Sixteen entries were put in two races of eight. The top four finishers from each heat became the eight finalists. Six of the eight kennels have captured a previous title and one, the Capabal kennel, hopes to make history with a back to back title from Aerial Battle today.

Along with winning last year’s race Aerial Battle was on track for the national wins title. In August the male had already racked up 31 wins out of 52 starts. He had approximately 18 weeks left in 2010 to collect more, but Battle came off lame after posting a third place finish. "I was sick when I discovered a stopper bone injury," said Capabal kennel manager Henry Parker. "Many times they don’t come back 100% from that type of injury." Patience and perseverance was Parker’s potion for Battle’s recovery. Aerial Battle was sidelined for four months. His repeat attempt will happen in his sixth official start this year. Capabal kennel also won the Matinee Idol in 1999 with Skimar Thumper. Aerial Battle went box to wire from the outside seven last year. This time he will wear red in his historic attempt. Aerial Battle has drawn the rail post only six times at Derby Lane. Battle's stats from post 1 is 6/3-2-0-0.

Charter kennel’s Odd Inspector won his qualifier Wednesday in box to wire fashion from post eight-the same post he drew Saturday. He was the runner-up in last year’s stakes when he broke second and chased Battle around the track from post three. One look at the program and Inspector was instantly made the morning line favorite by track announcer Jim Peake who is also the track handicapper. Peake is also a frequent tweeter and is voiceofd on twitter where he continues his handicapping picks nightly. Inspector’s recent win record is the best in the field with seven wins of his past eight starts-all from various posts. Odd Inspector has won from nearly every box. Inspector's record from post eight is 10/4-2-1-0. Charter kennel won the 2002 stakes with Dodgem By Design, who happens to be the sire of the defender Aerial Battle and Kiowa Lazy Lazy.

Lester Raines kennel’s Kiowa Lazy Lazy was also in last year's Idol stakes where he finished fourth, respectively from the outside eight. Although he drew the five this year Lazy Lazy has a 100% superfecta finish from that post. Of 12 starts from the middle Lazy Lazy's stats from post 5 are 12/6-0-1-5. Lazy Lazy set the season’s best time at the end of 2009 and clocked several speedy times in 2010. A win by Lazy Lazy would be a first Matinee Idol title for Lester Raines kennel.

Abernathy kennel’s RK’s Big Bear was a winner Wednesday from post five. Last year Abernathy drew the five box with their finalist Bow Miyabi. Big Bear drew post two for this year’s event-a post where he has a near perfect money record. Big Bear has had nine starts from post 2 just missing the superfecta once. Bear's record from post 2 is 9/3-1-2-2. Big Bear has been the most consistent money finisher of the field. He has finished in the quiniela in more than half of his past 23 starts with 22 money finishes of which, eight were first place finishes. Abernathy won the Matinee Idol with Circus Chevy in 1993.

D’Arcy kennel’s Sovereign Gold is one of two females in the stakes. D’Arcy kennel has a long history with female champions. Sovereign Gold will need to overcome the three post that she has competed from 12 times. Gold's 3 post record is 12/3-1-1-0. Although she may not prefer the inside she will be lethal if she gets the front. Sovereign Gold has lost only one race where she was leading and that loss was by a neck last July. D’Arcy kennel won the 2004-05 Matinee Idol with Fuzzys Cannon.

Floyd & Porter kennel’s M’s Free Hand will compete from post four. Although a win by him would technically be a first title for the kennel, Randy Floyd who co-owns the kennel won the stakes in 1991with SM Florida Gal for his Floyd kennel. M’s Free Hand has competed from post 4 fourteen times. Free Hand's record from box 4 is 14/2-3-3-2.

Patriot kennel is among the newest kennels and is back in the final again. Last year Kiowa RF Preston represented the kennel from post six. Kiowa Class King will seek the win from post seven. King has finished in the quiniela 16 times of his 21 starts from the seven box. King's stats from post 7are 21/8-8-2-1. Patriot is seeking a first Matinee Idol title.

And last but certainly not least is the McAllister kennel that is no stranger to stakes race wins. In 2008 Flying Stanley captured the title for the kennel. He was the Million-Dollar stakes winner in 2007 and the highest earning greyhound in the nation. Flying Bergen, who is the second female in the stakes, hopes to give the kennel a second title. She is a fast breaker and could hold on for an upset. Of her ten starts from the six box Bergen’s record from post 6 is 10/2-5-1-1.

27^th annual Matinee Idol stakes set for Saturday
Aerial Battle to defend title
Wednesday afternoon’s qualifying rounds set up the field for this Saturday (Jan. 22)-the 27^th annual Matinee Idol stakes. Capabal kennel’s Aerial Battle who was last year’s winner earned a post for a back-to-back attempt. Aerial Battle is also among the Derby Lane entries submitted for All America consideration.

The first heat saw no surprise when Odd Inspector went box to wire from the outside eight for Charter kennel. Odd Inspector was last year’s runner-up and will be a serious contender Saturday. His victory was a seventh of his past eight starts. M’s Free Hand (Floyd & Porter) put forth a winning effort and was the second best earning his slot in the final. Kiowa Class King was a longshot that proved he deserved a shot at the title when he closed late. Class King will be the Patriot entry. Last year Kiowa RF Preston represented the kennel. Sovereign Gold who was a finalist in the Inaugural two weeks ago earned a second stakes final slot. The D’Arcy kennel female stayed in the hunt to fill the first half of the field.

RK’s Big Bear (Abernathy) won the second heat. At 15-1 the male who was also a finalist in the Inaugural took charge midstretch for the win. McAllister kennel’s Flying Bergen finished second followed by Aerial Battle and Kiowa Lazy Lazy (Raines) who was the betting favorite. The posts for the stakes race will be drawn Thursday night. The 27^th annual Matinee Idol will be featured in race 8 Saturday afternoon January 22.

Matinee Idol qualifying rounds have been drawn
The starting lineup for the Matinee Idol has been drawn. Two heats will be held this Wednesday after noon January 19 in races six and ten. Headlining the field is last year’s winner Aerial Battle who needs to run fourth or better in his heat to earn a post at a second title. Sovereign Gold who was an Inaugural finalist will wear the coveted red blanket in race six. She will face another strong female Jack’s Shortfuse who was also in the Inaugural and last month’s 660-yard Challenge. Odd Inspector will no doubt be a favorite from the eight box in race six as well as M’s Free Hand who has lit the quiniela board in his last three starts.

Race ten features Aerial Battle who will seek his stakes slot from post six. Aerial Battle recently returned from an injury and will compete against the powerful Kiowa Lazy Lazy seeking the hat trick and TMC’s Pistol that was the runner-up in the Inaugural two weeks ago. RK’s Big Bear is also a solid sprinter and was also featured in the Inaugural as well as the fleet-footed Daring Diva. The first four finishers from the two heats will make up the 27^th annual Matinee Idol stakes.

Patriot kennel back on top
Derby Lane Saturday Night game going strong-link below
It didn’t take trainer Victor Hall very long to grace the top of the kennel standings. The Patriot kennel led the majority of the meet last season and finished second, respectively to the Lester Raines kennel. The first kennel standings have posted and Patriot is on top with 27 wins a half-length in front of Charter kennel (23) that was also on top for a stint last year. Cal Holland is in fourth place and Red Oak and Floyd & Porter kennel are tied for fifth.

The kennel’s are eyeing their top sprinters for next week’s Matinee Idol. The format is the same as the Inaugural where two heats will be run. The top four finishers from the two heats Wednesday matinee January 19 will become the eight finalists in the Saturday AFTERNOON Matinee Idol stakes Saturday January 22. Track champion Flying Coal City will be sitting this stakes out. Inaugural runner-up TMC’s Pistol is expected to be an entry in the stakes. Last year Aerial Battle won the stakes. Although the male is back on track it has not been determined if Battle will defend his title.

The Saturday night Derby Lane Fantasy Greyhound game hosted by Kcimagemakers.com is in full swing in the New Year. Kcimagemakers continues to offer a fun game and bring greyhound racing lovers from across the globe together. Join in the fun and enter the game on Saturday. Details http://www.kcimagemakers.com/greyhound.html

Coal Train derailed

The McAllister kennel has gone through a series of emotions since their superstar Flying Coal City, a.k.a. "coal train" brought in the New Year with a fifth career stakes victory on January 8. All were enjoying the winner’s circle with the champion Saturday night, but on Sunday morning McAllister discovered that Coal City was injured. "Coal has a small tear in his left shoulder muscle not as bad as when he did his right a year ago, but never good," McAllister wrote in a Greyhound internet chat room. "It must have happened coming for home when he suddenly let up, or he overextended rounding the far turn," McAllister stated.

Although Coal City has been derailed at this time McAllister is hopeful that his star will return to defend his title in the Sprint Classic. Qualifying for the Sprint Classic begins February 19, barely a month from now. "Coal City runs so hard that he thinks he’s unbreakable," said McAllister. Flying Coal City who is two months shy of his third birthday has accumulated staggering statistics. Of his 58 career wins 25 were recorded during stakes race competition over both 550 and 660-yard courses. And he just missed tying the national wins record for 2010 after loosing a month of racing last year. Coal City boasts a career record of 89/58-13-5-0. Flying Coal City has entered nine stakes in his career winning five of them and finishing second in two others.

According to McAllister Flying Coal City is the fastest greyhound he has ever handled, and he has had his share of superstars including P’s Raisin Cain in TX and Million Dollar champion Flying Stanley to name a few. "I’m not sure who my entry will be for the Matinee Idol at this time," said McAllister who won the 2008 stakes with Flying Stanley.

The dual distance Flying Coal City is a top candidate for national honors that include All America Team Captain, Rural Rube and Flashy Sir awards. The announcements will be made by March. Other Derby Lane greyhounds listed for consideration are multiple stakes winner TMC's Remedy, Aerial Battle and Kiowa Lazy Lazy.

The qualifying for the 27^th annual Matinee Idol is Wednesday afternoon January 19. Sixteen greyhounds will compete in two qualifiers. The top four finishers from each of the two races will become the eight finalists for this year’s event that will take place Saturday matinee February 22.

Flying Coal City kicks off New Year with stakes win and pursues national awards
Charter has early lead in New Year

McAllister kennel’s dual distance superstar Flying Coal City kicked off the New Year the same way he ended 2010-with a stakes race win. Three weeks after winning the 660-yard challenge, which was Coal City’s fourth stakes win of the year, the son of Kiowa Sweet Trey x Flying Crestline moved to the 550 course and collected the win in the prestigious St. Petersburg Inaugural-the longest running stakes in North America. Flying Coal City broke on top from post three. It was a dedja vu as fans saw a familiar sight when J. E. O’Donnell kennel’s TMC’ Pistol also came out with guns blazing. Pistol threatened the "coal train" but had to settle for second to the superstar. The Coal City and Pistol perfecta repeated as it did in the Fall Sprint last October. Photo above: Derby Lane Vice President Richard Winning, Malcolm and Barbara McAllister and Liz Dunnuck. Kneeling with the champion is leadout Eloy Castillo.

"He is just awesome," said Malcolm McAllister after the race. The "coal train" was the bet favorite and paid $4.20 for the win. Flying Coal City is among the elite group of greyhounds that have been nominated for an All America award along with the Rural Rube and Flashy Sir. Greyhounds winning the awards will be honored at the Greyhound Hall of Fame in April.

Finishing second through eighth in the Inaugural was TMC’s Pistol (O’Donnell), Sovereign Gold (D’Arcy), RK’s Big Bear (Abernathy), Kiowa Lazy Lazy (Raines), RC China Doll (Red Oak), Cool Pinto Bay (Charter) and Kiowa AK Crier (Patriot). The next stakes race at Derby Lane is the Matinee Idol. Qualifiers are Wednesday matinee Jan. 19. The stakes race final is Saturday afternoon January 22.

Other news: Charter kennel is one win on top (17) in the kennel standings through January 8. Patriot kennel is a nose away followed by Cal Holland with 14 wins. The new Red Oak Racing and Floyd & Porter are tied with 12 wins each.

James Jackson passes
The sudden passing of James Durelle Jackson of TX has stunned the Greyhound industry. James supported every aspect of Greyhound racing and recently began sending many greyhounds to race at Derby Lane. On Saturday the Jackson owned Broncs came out of nowhere in a longshot victory for Red Oak Racing to pay $29.60. It could have been his way of saying good-bye to his owner that passed right around the time of the race. Saturday night Jackson’s Mesa Backstop won handily. Those that knew James Jackson understand the magnitude of his loss. He will be missed dearly by all of us at Derby Lane as well as the entire Greyhound racing community and those of us that work on the Night of Stars broadcast. Our deepest sympathy to his family.

D'Arcy to defend Inaugural title Saturday
Kiowa Lazy Lazy & Flying Coal City face off again in Inaugural

Race 10 saw Flying Coal City dominate the race and clock the fastest time of the New Year of 30.27. Kiowa AK Crier ran second for Patriot kennel. Last year Patriot’s entry was Starz Blackhawk. Sovereign Gold ran third for the D’Arcy kennel that won last year’s Inaugural with Gold’s littermate Sovereign Lord. Both Gold and Lord were whelped from Greys Calibrator who won the 2006 Derby Lane Million Dollar stakes for trainer and kennel owner Mick D’Arcy. The final slot went to RK’s Big Bear who finished in the money 26 of 33 starts last meet.
86th annual Inaugural
Race 10 Saturday night January 8-in post position order
1-RC China Doll, Red Oak Racing
2-Kiowa Lazy Lazy, Lester Raines
3-Flying Coal City, McAllister
4-TMC's Pistol, J. E. O'Donnell, Jr.
5-Sovereign Gold, D'Arcy
6-Cool Pinto Bay, Charter
7-Kiowa AK Crier, Patriot
8-RK's Big Bear, Abernathy

Wednesday night Jan. 5 Derby Lane kicks off the first stakes race of the meet. The 86th annual Inaugural is the longest running Greyhound stakes race in North America. In the past eight top grade athletes were hand chosen by the Racing office for the opening feature. In the past several years the field of eight earned their post by finishing in the top four of two races for the qualifiers. Headlining the qualifiers is Derby Lane's win leader Flying Coal City. The champion dual distance male won every major sprint stakes in 2010 and hopes to kick off the New Year in the same fashion for McAllister kennel. Flying Coal City must finish among the top four in race 10. He will face Sovereign Gold-a littermate to last year's Inaugural champ Sovereign Lord of the defending D'Arcy kennel. Gold and Lord are also pups from the first litter whelped by 2006 Million Dollar Champion Greys Calibrator who was also trained by Mick D'Arcy. Sovereign Gold is looking for her fifth win in seven starts in the qualifiers.

Jack's Shortfuse who has also competed over both 550 and 660-yard courses seeks her slot against Coal City. Shortfuse was a finalist in the 660-Yard Challenge. M's Free Agent is seeking the hat trick against the "coal train" in race ten as well.

Before Coal City's race Kiowa Lazy Lazy-one of Coal's biggest nemesis seeks his post in the final for the Lester Raines kennel that cinched the top spot in wins and money for 2010. Lazy Lazy ranked #2 in wins. Sprint Classic runner-up TMC's Pistol (J. E. O'Donnell) and 660-yard finalist Daring Diva (Royal Racing) will also compete in race six. The top four finishers from the two qualifiers will make up the stakes race final to be held Saturday night January 8. Fans attending Saturday night will also have a shot at winning $500 cash in five drawings. The final to be held after the running of the Inaugural.

Flying Coal City pursues North American win title Friday night
All Jackpots are forced out December 31
Outback Bowl shown at Derby Lane
NFL Sunday Ticket at Derby Lane
Flying Coal City will be among starters in Inaugural qualifying
Jan. 5
Note…All jackpots are forced out Friday night-Happy New Year!

Derby Lane wishes Flying Coal City all the best on his quest at the North American win title. Flying Coal City is in our opinion the best athlete in America and has the stats to prove it. To even be challenging for the title is astonishing after jockeying back and forth over the 550 and 660-yard courses where the male has set and reset the season’s best times this year and recorded the majority of his victories while competing in stakes races.

Flying Coal City’s stats are staggering as the male has won both 550 and 660 stakes races this year including a first time sweep in the 660-yard challenge. Flying Coal City also thrilled fans with an unprecedented eight in a row that started in the semifinal round of the Sprint Classic on March 3 over the 550-yard course where the male began the streak. Along with the streak he continued to post 30 quiniela finishes of his 31 starts from March 3 – July 21. His record before December 31 for 2010 is 69/48-10-3-0.

Other news: Congratulations to Lester Raines kennel and trainers Ken and Jeanne Lesperance for taking top kennel honors. "This is big for us," said Ken Lesperance. "This is the first time since I have been working for Lester that he has finished on top with runners at Derby Lane." The Raines kennel is also on track to take top kennel at Tri State, Orange Park and will be among the top ten at Wheeling. Congratulations!