Kichiro">Kichiro is providing the perfect tonic for Leon Bozovitch and the owner-trainer is hoping for more cheer in this Thursday’s Group 2 Country Motor Company Dapto Puppy Classic (520m).
The sprinter goes in the first of four semi-finals after a superb win in last week’s Heats, bolting round in 29.92.
It was a welcome victory for Bozovitch, a successful stalwart of the sport who has undergone heart bypass surgery and then prostate cancer treatment over the last couple of years.
Having received a six-month ‘all clear’ assessment from doctors this week, the 71-year-old is determined to enjoy plenty more of the winning feeling.
“The physio said I’m getting better, so I’m happy,” Bozovitch said.
“I want to concentrate on getting my dogs fit and winning more races at Wentworth Park, just like I used to do.
“He is a good dog and doing his best.
“I am getting better and he is getting better as a greyhound.”
Last week’s impressive win was Kichiro’s third in five visits to Dapto.
While he looks tough to stop in the semis, he will have to overcome an awkward draw in box six to make it through to the final.
The sprinter also faces tough competition from the likes of Alderley Reform (box one) and box four’s Ella Has Class, who were also Heat winners.
Bozovitch, works out of the South Sydney suburb of Miranda, has enjoyed plenty of success over the years with the likes of 2005 Chairman’s Cup winner Arapina Miss.
He is aiming Kichiro for a forthcoming trip to Wentworth Park, where the sprinter has already trialled well, and is optimistic of victory here.
“If he jumps second or third he can win,” Bozovitch said.
“He has plenty of pace on his inside but he has a powerful finish, as we saw last week.
“I think he has a good chance.”
Fancied Frattini, who made the final of the recent Group 1 Vic Peters Classic, only just squeezed into the semi-finals but must still be respected in the second Heat.
Barcelona Star and Bertacious Bee should provide strong opposition.
Sokyo is flying at the moment and looks tough to stop in Heat three, while Queenslander Spring Bonanza should be better for last week’s first competitive look at the track.
Heat four looks unpredictable but Rare Pearl and Kichiro’s littermate Enchanted Molly, who is trained by Loretta Rice, look the picks.
The $75,000-to-the-winner final takes place next Thursday.
Racing starts at 7.27pm.
For Dapto Thursday fields and form, click here.
