You won’t find Tony Brett worrying about dashing the hopes of New South Welshmen at this Friday's Group 1 Sportingbet Dapto Megastar (520m).
The gun Queensland trainer has exciting sprinter Flash Reality going from box four in the race, which is shaping up as a cracker.
With 11 wins from 18 starts, the chaser is a strong chance to dash the hopes of the home hopefuls and take the $75,000 top prize back to the Sunshine State.
Proud Maroon Brett, who narrowly missed out on Megastar success with last year’s runner-up Glen Gallon, said he could take any jibes if he claims the win.
“I had greyhounds racing in the Grafton carnival just after we lost the State of Origin this year,” he smiled. “I copped a bit then, I can tell you.
“So I reckon I’m ready for it if we can win.”
The Megastar is the latest leg in a gruelling countrywide odyssey for Flash Reality, who has dominated Brisbane’s Albion Park over 520m this year.
He was fancied to go well at last month’s National Sprint titles in Perth but only finished sixth.
The chaser hasn’t raced competitively at Dapto before but motored round in an excellent 29.78 trial last Friday.
He has drawn the unhelpful box four but Brett said his greyhound – also known for wolfing down ice cream as a post-race treat – is shaping up nicely ahead of the final.
“The Nationals was his first big trip,” Brett said. “I think it took a bit out of him, but his trial was fantastic and he’s in excellent shape now.
“I think the biggest threat is ZIPPING Willow (pictured, pink rug) - she’s boxed to do well in the seven. Her and Shoulders (box one) will be tough.
“You’ve got to beat them to the turn or you’ve no chance.”
Brett is an old hand at Group races, but his adrenalin levels will be running just as fast as the dogs on the track come Friday night.
“Mate, it doesn’t matter how many starts you’ve had,” the 44-year-old said. “You are always nervous.
“The day you lose those nerves is the day you give it up.
“He is a good dog and I reckon he’s got a chance.”
The race is part of Greyhound Racing NSW’s exciting new Thank Dog It’s Friday series, which aims to showcase the best regional greyhound racing over the coming months.
For more information on the series, click here.
