Promising Blue Thunda has tasted seventh heaven and injury hell in recent months but trainer Noelene Walsh will be hoping it’s lucky number eight at Dubbo today.
The flying bitch returns from injury aiming to make it eight wins from her first eight outings when she goes in the Download The Dogs App Stakes (318m) at the Central West track today.
A combination of leg and toe injuries have kept the eye-catching novice on the sidelines since victory at Dubbo on May 1.
Walsh is hoping patience will pay off with yet another success.
“Her injury wasn’t overly frustrating because Dubbo has been in recess,” Walsh said.
“I know her owner is nervous and hoping it will be eight from eight. l imagine when we’re putting her in the box tomorrow my adrenalin will be pumping as well.
“I’m quietly confident as she has the ability to win this.”
Blue Thunda’s progress has been a real family affair, with Walsh, partner Bruce Miles and his father John all assisting with racing duties.
The versatile bitch has racked up wins at Dubbo, Maitland and The Gardens and triumphed over 400m and 318m so far in her short career.
She has won from six different boxes and will head from the six in Thursday's race.
Walsh, who works out of the western NSW village of Coolabah, is aiming her charge for a possible crack at the forthcoming Coonamble carnival and has other possible plans in store.
“I would eventually like to try her over the 500m,” she said.
“I think once you put them in a distance you like them to stay there (and) there’s always that question of how much they will have in the tank when they move up.
“I think we’ll keep her in the Dubbo routine for now and check her progress.”
Blue Thunda has already chalked up an impressive 18.08 for the 318m and could be tough to stop now she’s fit again.
“Her first sectional times have been amazing,” Walsh said. “That’s when she breaks away from her competitors.
“When she trialled last week she was on a par with her earlier times. We hope she can pull that off again and keep her run going.”
The toughest opposition looks likely to come from Miss Winfrey (box seven), who has a best of 18.13 for the distance and recently won at Bathurst.
Ten races are on the card at Dubbo, with action under way at 1.49pm.
For fields, form and expert tips, click here.
