Bobby Bant captured DENIS Hogan’s heart as soon as they met and the chaser appears a strong chance to again repay the owner-trainer’s faith with another win at Goulburn today.
The in-form sprinter jumps from box one in the Classicbet Sprint (350m), the day’s 10th race, and looks one of the bets of the day.
He continued his good recent form with a notable win here last week, taking his career record to five wins and 14 minor placings from 27 starts.
Hogan bought the pup when he was just six weeks old on a hunch – but it turned out to be a decent decision.
“There were 11 in the litter – five blue, five black and just one who was white-and-black,” he said. “I said, ‘I will have a go with him’.
“He has done well for me and really picked up recently.”
Bobby Bant’s latest triumph was a strong 19.97 run over the 350m at Goulburn last Tuesday.
The consistent sprinter has won twice and has placed on seven of his last 11 starts and went within 0.09 of the 280m record at Wentworth Park recently.
“He should go well again here,” Hogan said.
“He’s strong from the outside boxes as he likes a bit of room, but he goes alright from the one box as well.
“He doesn’t ping the lids all the time but when he gets it right he can move.”
A long-time racing lover, Hogan was a teenage apprentice jockey at the top Randwick stables of Baden Hasler.
He mixed with famous counterparts like Athol Mulley before later moving into greyhound training.
If Bobby Bant gets the win, the chaser can look forward to a post-race treat from western Sydney-based Hogan.
“When they win, I make sure they get an ice cream to celebrate,” the 72-year-old said with a smile.
“I love greyhounds. They are beautiful animals and devoted to you.
“I retired about 12 years ago, so racing is a great way to keep my mind and body active.
“I’ve always done this for a hobby. If you win, it’s a bonus.
“There’s some great people involved in greyhound racing – you always find someone to talk to – and I’ve really enjoyed it.”
Impressive newcomer Irish Whip looks the pick in race five at Goulburn, while Here's Archie looks tough to stop in race eight.
Take Cosmic Skittle, who has won two from two so far, and Kazmick's Revenge to complete the quaddie in races six and seven respectively.
For Goulburn Tuesday fields and form, click here.
