Leo Vanderburg is enjoying possibly the best spell of his long training career and is hoping On Tilt can make his dreams come true in Saturday night’s Group 3 Classicbet Nowra Spring Puppy Classic (520m).
The novice chaser goes from box four in the $25,000-to-the-winner final, which includes some of NSW’s most promising greyhounds.
Vanderburg has been training for about 50 years and has enjoyed a notable 2014 with the likes of three-time Wentworth Park winner Queen Charlie.
This would be a first Group winner for the 66-year-old and it could be a memorable night on the South Coast if he wins.
“It’s nice to make any final, but enjoyable to make a Group final,” Vanderburg said.
“I’ve had a fair bit of winners this year and I am really enjoying my racing.
“I’m excited for this race – not just for me but for the owner as well.
“I cannot wait for Saturday night.”
On Tilt may have boxed awkwardly for the final but she cannot be discounted.
She has three wins from her ten starts so far and has produced two solid runs in the heats and semi-finals to earn her chance in the decider.
Last week she ran 30.16 to finish behind Paua To Roar, who won with an impressive 29.89.
Both Paua To Roar (box seven) and his kennelmate, box three’s Paua To Change, are big chances for Nowra Hill trainer Steve White.
“Paua To Roar will be hard to stop,” Vanderburg said. “Both of Steve White’s greyhounds will be tough beat.
“I have a lot of time for Steve – he is a good trainer – but we will see what happens.
“It is a shame On Tilt has not drawn closer to the rail but she has got plenty of pacer and ability as well.
“She is a beautiful greyhound to work with (and) I’m quietly confident she will run a big race at least.”
Vanderburg said he would likely take On Tilt to Wentworth Park for the first time after this run.
Others to watch in the Puppy Classic final include another of White’s greyhounds, Rare Pearl (box five).
Ella Has Class (box eight) has shown good speed so far and cannot be discounted.
Other notables jumping at Nowra include Cosmic Ken in race five and Stilton Blue (race eight).
Ten races are on the card and action starts at 5.34pm.
For Nowra fields, form and expert tips, click here.
