Peter Dapiran is ready to cop some good-natured flak from one opponent in this Saturday’s Group 3 Chairman’s Cup Final (720m) at Wentworth Park but he hopes he’ll be the one celebrating.
Victorian trainer Dapiran has ZIPPING Maggie who has emerged as a strong chance after impressively winning her semi-final, lining up in this Saturday’s final.
Among the rivals for the $25,000 top prize will be ZIPPING Rory, trained by daughter Bethany.
The 59-year-old, whose greyhound will also face legendary Xylia Allen (pictured), said he would gladly endure some friendly ribbing if his daughter can claim victory with her unfancied contender.
“I’m sure I will hear about it if she wins,” he said with a smile.
“We both work together off the same property. There’s no rivalry.
“It’s nice to see her involved in the sport and if she wants to do it long-term, that’s great.”
ZIPPING Maggie goes into the final as a realistic shot, having seen off a tough field in last Saturday’s semi-final, including recent National Distance Championship winner Sweet It Is.
Xylia Allen won the other semi-final and looks ominous, but Dapiran believes the box draw has been favourable for his hopeful.
“I would rather have had the rail but three isn’t bad,” he said.
“Sweet It Is is on the outside of her and she’s not as quick (at the start).
“She (ZIPPING Maggie) needs to beat Xylia Allen to the first turn. If she can do that and not get interfered with, then she has a chance.”
Dapiran, who has been involved with the sport for about 40 years and works out of the small town of Seymour, has brought the greyhound smartly through the grades.
The semi-final win was her debut at Wentworth Park but she’s now chalked up 10 triumphs in 20 starts.
“She was lacking a bit of early pace, so I suggested to the owner that we change things,” Dapiran, who nominates former multiple Group winner and outstanding sprinter-turned-stayer Bentley Babe as his best-ever greyhound, said.
“Her run home times were exceptional and she could run the 600m well, so it was ‘only’ another 120 metres.
“We travelled up on the day for the semi-final and we’ll do the same again on Saturday. She’s a good little bitch and a good traveller.”
Dapiran said he might bring her back to NSW in the future, although more immediately is the Group 1 Hume Cup at The Meadows in late October.
“Whatever happens this Saturday, she will go up the ladder from here,” Dapiran said. “She is the new kid on the block.
“I’m not saying she is Xylia Allen but I think ZIPPING Maggie is capable of beating her on the night.”
For Wentworth Park fields, form and expert tips, click here.
