Kenneth Barnden is hoping it was worth cutting his holiday short for a shot at Friday night’s Group 2 Black Top Final (515m).
Barnden, who handles box three chance Alan’s Kidz, is returning home early from a family trip to Thredbo for the $40,000-to-the-winner final.
Dad Bob, who trains the fast-improving greyhound, said his son was prepared for the wrath of loved ones to watch a potential Group win.
“He said he's had six days in the snow and that’s enough,” Barnden senior said with a laugh.
"My son handles Alan's Kidz 90 per cent of the time as he just barks and barks with anyone else.
“He said before the heats that he shouldn’t put him in for the Black Top – if he’s lucky enough to reach the final – as they go to the snow every year.
"I think he's looking forward to coming back for the final, although I’m not sure what his wife and kids will say.”
Alan’s Kidz goes into the final as one of the most in-form contenders, having impressed recently at Wentworth Park.
He chalked up three successive wins there earlier this month and been very consistent since moving up to 515m in June.
The chaser earned his place in the final with a solid 29.66 semi-final run and Barnden senior likes his chances on Friday night.
“I think he will be up there,” he said.
“Box three isn’t a bad draw because he can come straight across to the corner.
“If he can get round the first corner in front he will give them a good run for their money.”
Alan’s Kidz’s recent good form has taken his record to 13 wins from 35 starts, including five victories at the Newcastle track.
He keeps the Barndens on their toes but Bob says he doesn’t mind his “full-on” dog.
“He’s definitely got a personality,” Barnden senior said.
“When you get him out of the cage he just wants to run and if you have him on the walking machine he wags his tail non-stop.
“If you have a greyhound that isn’t so keen then are usually a bit dopey on the track, so it’s good.
“I think he’s got a chance.”
The race headlines the first leg of the Thank Dog It’s Friday series.
For more information on the series, click here.
For Unibet Gardens Friday fields, form and expert tips, click here.
