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Avondale Maurick will make more than Ron Bell’s dreams come true if he wins the Newcastle Cup – he will pay the trainer in bricks and mortar too.
The stayer (pictured, pink rug) is among a strong-looking field for this afternoon's $15,000-to-the-winner 715m cup at Unibet Gardens.
Bell, who works out of the Lake Macquarie suburb of Blacksmiths, has been involved with greyhounds for more than 40 years.
While he is not planning retirement yet, the 63-year-old said winning the cup and taking the first prize would be extra special.
“I’m building a new house at the moment, so a win would definitely come in handy,” Bell said.
“Winning this would mean heaps to me. I’m on the board of the club, it’s my home track and I won a race on the first day the track opened.
“I’d love to win this one before I hang up the collar.”
Avondale Maurick is coming off an unsuccessful tilt at the Group 3 Summer Cup at Wentworth Park last Saturday night, where he finished fifth.
He is one of the better stayers currently in NSW and has a decent record from box three, where he jumps from here.
“The Summer Cup was obviously a different field,” Bell said. “This is his home track and he should be better suited here.
“Pumped Up Zarr (in box seven) is a class dog and will be tough to stop. Dusty Moonshine (in eight) is strong as well.
“I’m not overly confident – but I’m quietly confident.”
A talented footy player as a teenager, Bell started training greyhounds after injuring his back and being advised by doctors to walk more.
He has enjoyed some memorable moments in the sport, including snaring the Wentworth Park top trainers’ premiership in 2012.
With 15 wins from 51 starts, Avondale Maurick has been a reliable performer for the trainer over the last 18 months and has a decent chance here.
“He has pulled up well from last Saturday and is a sound dog,” Bell said.
“He was bought for $5,000 and we’ve won nearly $50,000 with him. A win here would put the icing on the cake for him.”
In other action, Megan Keeping (race two) and Revlon Babe in race six also look strong chances.
Ten races are on the card at Unibet Gardens on Friday and action starts at 3.43pm.
For Unibet Gardens Friday fields, form and expert picks, click here.
