Les Dennis is confident Father Skeeta can finally shake off his ‘bridesmaid’ tag and claim Saturday’s $10,000-to-the-winner Phil Davis Memorial (535m, race six) at Richmond.
The son of Aston Galilee and Madam Jessie jumps from box one in a terrific decider aiming to secure what would be his trainer’s biggest victory in the sport.
Father Skeeta made it 14 wins and 18 minor placings from 55 starts with his 30.69 victory in last week’s heats, cruising home by seven lengths.
Click here to watch Father Skeeta’s run last week.
He has been in contention for some of the state’s most notable titles since debuting in July 2013 and owner-trainer Dennis said his greyhound is looking good for this race.
“A few weeks ago we found arthritis in his hip,” Dennis said. “He has responded really well to treatment.
“I think he’s got another 12 months of racing in him – and more improvement.
“He’s reached the Canberra and Goulburn cup finals and came third in the Ultra Sense (at Wentworth Park. He’s run some terrific races.
“This would be my biggest title if I get it – and I think he can.”
This is an intriguing final, with all eight finalists having realistic chances.
Serena Fly High (box six) was the fastest qualifier in 30.45 and has won five of her last six starts.
She also has a decent record from box six and has won on both her previous visits to Richmond.
Newcomer Time For Money (box four) also has a super record at Richmond and clocked 30.57 while winning last week.
“I think it’s between mine and Serena Fly High,” Dennis, who trains out the NSW Central West base of Lidsdale, said.
“I could have shouted with joy when I heard the box draw. It’s such a help for him.
“He loves running – he’s just a great ‘racing’ greyhound to have – and I think he can go faster this week.”
In other action at Richmond, Black’s A Marble (box five) is one to watch in race five.
The newcomer produced a superb 30.69 run on debut over the 535m here last month to win by six lengths.
Biffle had a great win over the 520m at Wentworth Park last week and looks capable of triumphing again here in race seven.
Dennis first became involved with greyhounds almost 60 years and is one of the sport’s most interesting characters.
He left greyhounds to become a beekeeper for some three decades, returning after his retirement from work in 2007.
“I didn’t retire from beekeeping until I was 68,” Dennis said. “I think you have to keep busy or that’s it for you.
“I only have two greyhounds in work but I’ve got two pups coming through.
“I love going to the tracks and seeing the people there.
“It keeps me active and it’s good fun.”
For Richmond Saturday fields, form and expert picks, click here.
