Ken Wright doesn’t get bowled over easily these days but he is “Quietly hopeful” Kool Larocca could be his next star.
The highly promising greyhound will aim to make it six wins from eight starts when he goes from box seven in the Black Dog Institute Stakes (520m) at Wentworth Park on Friday night.
After catching the eye with strong performances at Bulli, the impressive novice won at Wentworth Park last week to underline his potential.
Wright has trained several champion greyhounds alongside wife Mary over the years and thinks Kool Larocca could enjoy a fruitful career.
“He could be a Group-level dog,” he said. “At what level, we’ll have to wait and see.
“He has got to improve his box manners to start with and get a bit stronger but he may develop into a better dog.
“I’ve trained a few Group One winners in my time, but I’ve made plenty of mistakes as well – I won't be getting carried away.
“I think he will do well – I’m Quietly hopeful.”
Kool Larocca’s mother, Extremely Kool, was a solid if unspectacular city performer, while father Collision chalked up six wins in a short but notable career.
Kool Larocca looks like he may outstrip them both, though, with another win possible this Friday.
He could face tough opposition from Got the Life (box two), who is the only greyhound quicker in the field.
Veteran Good as Osti won over 515m at The Gardens last week and has been a decent recent performer.
Wright said he’s had to show some patience with his newcomer, but some hard work at the couple’s Appin property is now paying off.
"I always put them up the straight for four or five trials," he said. "They have got to break 16 up there or they are not going to make it.
“He got down to 15.80.
“I gave him trials at Bulli and he was going round in 22.7.
"I am pleased with his progress (but) I’ve been around a long time and I don’t get overwhelmed.
“How far he will go at this stage I’m not sure but he is improving all the time.”
The race is the fifth of ten on the card at Wentworth Park on Friday.
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