Dean Swain believes Rue De Kahn could be a contender for the 2015 NSW Greyhound of the Year crown if she maintains her current fabulous form.
The veteran (pictured, pink rug), who has enjoyed a sparkling year so far, claimed her latest notable triumph with a thrilling victory in Thursday night’s Dapto Oaks.
That win, which followed Rue De Kahn’s triumph in last month’s Group 3 Richmond Oaks, took the consistent greyhound’s record to 19 wins and 24 minor placings from 62 starts.
Last year’s Group 1 National Futurity winner has six successes and five other podium finishes from her last 12 starts – mostly in strong company – and should be challenging for NSW’s biggest races in coming months too.
“I’ll be targeting Group races with her,” Swain said. "I won't travel with her (but) I'll look for the big races here.
“With the way she’s going, if she can get another big Group win this year she’d be in contention for the top three (in the Greyhound of the Year).
“I’ve never had one in the top three and it would be fantastic to achieve that.”
Rue De Kahn claimed the $7000 top prize at Dapto in cracking fashion, edging out Shady Ace by a neck.
Click here to watch a replay of the race.
That completed a rare Richmond/Dapto Oaks for the sprinter, who has been a NSW standout since debuting in late 2013 and has collected more than $200,000 in prizemoney.
Rue De Kahn built an early reputation as a dangerous railer but her latest victory from box seven underlined her prowess from any box.
“She’s just learned how to be more adaptable,” Swain said. “Her last 15 starts or so have been outstanding.
“You wouldn’t think she’s three years and three months old. She runs around home and barks at the younger ones.
“She’s a wonderful greyhound and a pleasure to train.”
Swain said he has not yet earmarked any further big races for Rue De Kahn, who should be back in action at Wentworth Park next Saturday.
The son of Golden Easter Egg-winning trainer Sydney, Swain junior has only been training full-time for a couple of years.
He has already enjoyed notable success with both Rue De Kahn and Ella Has Class and there could be more to come.
“I’ve got about 10 pups and there’s a few handy ones in there,” the former roof plumber said. “I think over the next few months we’ll be putting out some smart dogs.
“I really feel that if I can just get a good greyhound, I can produce some wins.
“I’ve been involved with dogs for all my life, been full-time training for the last couple of years and I’m loving it.
“It’s my passion and I’m really excited for the future.”
