While open competitions are the pinnacle of top-class greyhound racing, there are other more serious matters which need to be addressed.
With respect to trap issues, we accept that accidents happen in greyhound racing, but recent and past events could — and should — have been prevented.
We landed a man on the moon in 1969, yet in the 21st century, we still struggle with starting traps that are not maintained fit for purpose.
The industry has failed to keep pace with modern technology. The solution is to implement a standard design — or an improved design if necessary — and adopt it across all tracks, using equipment proven for safety, reliability, and consistency.
Outdated
A formal British Standard trap design would move UK greyhound racing closer to the model used in athletics or horse racing starting gates, where equipment is tightly regulated.
Yes, it comes at a cost, but the sport’s future depends on it. This and all other aspects of greyhound welfare are areas where compromise is never acceptable.
Also, on the subject of technology, it is hard to understand why hand timing is still relied upon.
While it has a legitimate role as a backup in the rare case of system failure, running a category one competition on such outdated methods undermines the integrity of the event and risks its credibility.
Coral Olympic
The six heats last Saturday nearly included every winning favourite. It was only Chelms Bear who couldn’t quite reel in Raebella Bullet, who led all the way from a quick break.
The stunning run from Proper Heiress in 29.55 consolidated his position in the ante post market and is odds-on to land another category one competition to add to his envious CV.
It may look a foregone conclusion when up against the best four-bend greyhound this side of the Irish Sea.
However, the each-way option is Silverhill Adam at around 20/1, who has advanced under the radar.
He is coming back to his best after a lengthy lay-off and won well in the last heat of the night.
He is a strong runner over the extended 515m distance and a smart exit from trap 2 again should see him qualify.
George Curtis & Ballyregan Bob Memorial
The memorial competition has another short-priced favourite in Mongys Wild.
Without Droopys Flare, who was sensational in her victory at Shelbourne Park, you could say it’s his to lose.
He is the nearest there is to a machine over the longer distances, but no such thing as a dead-cert.
The first semi-final is now down to five runners with three to qualify. There are two each-way selections worth backing against the jolly in Buddys Bullet and Deadly Disco.
The former is an exciting young prospect on the staying race scene. Bullet is the likely leader and will take some catching from off the front.
Disco in trap 6 gave Mongys Wild a real tussle in their heat, so cannot be overlooked.
Adjust your staking so you will almost break even if at least one finishes in the first three.
Be wary that several bookmakers are only offering one-fifth the odds instead of the usual one-quarter.
READ MORE: Premier Greyhound Racing open competitions: Rankings and ratings
