He is solid rather than spectacular but Diane SKINNER believes Make Magic could be worth backing in the Schweppes Stakes (515m) at Unibet Gardens on Friday.
Last year’s greyhound of the year at the Gardens has only six wins from 50 starts but with 20 runners-up spots and a decent placing record, he’s always worth considering.
A consistent if unspectacular performer in recent weeks, the box three dog's recent form has his Hunter Valley-based owner/trainer reasonably optimistic for another win.
“He’s a good dog,” SKINNER said. “I wish he could turn some of those seconds into firsts.
“There are so many fast dogs out there and he’s just not quite getting that first step off the ground and showing what he can do.
“He’s having to come from behind rather than leading.
Magic Mike starts just outside the dangerous Precious Lulu (box two).
Trainer Robert Campbell’s bitch has seven wins and six other placings from 19 starts so far.
“That’s not all bad,” SKINNER said. “I would rather him near the fence than in six or seven.
“With his record, he’s always got a chance.”
Alan’s Kidz (box four) has been rather inconsistent in recent weeks but won at Richmond over 400m last time out.
Experienced Lord Rain is a sub-30 second dog at this level but has been struggling for his best form recently.
SKINNER has been around greyhounds since she was a child.
Her father, Bert Johnson, had NSW’s first Greyhound of the Year winner Blue Autumn back in 1965.
“I only took up training later on,” SKINNER said.
“The dogs keep me going. They are lovely and very addictive.
“When you get that first win for a while it’s more relief rather than exhilaration.
“It has had its ups and downs but it beats having another hobby.”
The race is eighth of ten on offer at Unibet Gardens, with action starting at 3.42pm.
For forms, fields and expert tips, click here.
