Unbeaten Bold Phoenix is giving Noel Flegg the time of his training life and the promising newcomer can secure another win at Richmond today.
Flegg’s greyhound jumps from box six in the day’s seventh race, the Unibet (1-3 Wins) Stakes (618m), chasing a fourth consecutive win.
This is a first start over the longer distance for the son of Bit Chili and Arcane Phoenix after a trio of victories over the 535m at Richmond to start his racing career.
Flegg, who has been training intermittently for some 30 years, has high hopes for Bold Phoenix.
“It’s an exciting time,” Flegg, who also owns Bold Phoenix, said.
“I’ve only ever had one or two dogs and I’ve never had one as good as him.
“I’ve talked to full-time trainers who’ve told me that sense of achievement when you have a good dog is very satisfying.
“We’ll see how good he can be.”
Bold Phoenix’s winning times have not been stunning but he has a strong engine and decent ability.
Click here to watch Bold Phoenix's last start win at Richmond.
He is part of a good litter, with three brothers - Arcane Rampage, Arcane Sabre and Cawbourne Pirate – currently running well in NEW ZEALAND.
The big threat here looks like John Callaughan-trained Calla Boom (box two), who is having a first start over 618m and has been very consistent recently.
“Calla Boom is a good dog,” Flegg said. “I think he’ll be in front and it’s whether we can run him down.
“Bold Phoenix is a slow beginner but he’s a strong finisher. If he’s near them in the back straight he’s got a chance.
“He’s not city class by any means – his first sectional times would be a worry at Wentworth Park - but he looks like he’ll run decent distances.”
Flegg also believes Bold Phoenix’s sister Select Phoenix can break her duck in the day’s opening race.
She has been running solidly if not spectacularly so far and looks drawn well in box one to win here.
“All her runs have been in decent company,” he said. “All her races have been on TAB tracks.
“I think she’s knocking on the door and from this box she can win.”
Queen Charlie (box six) looks the best bet of the day in the day’s ninth race.
In-form Gun Pizza looks too strong for the rest in race two, while Kakoda Kingdom (race 10) has done well here previously and can salute again.
For Richmond Wednesday fields, form and expert picks, click here.
