Eva Diva is continuing owner-trainer Mario Abela’s love affair with Gosford and he thinks his greyhound could challenge for this Friday’s Group 2 Woy Woy Poultry Supplies Gosford Cup (515m).
Abela’s greyhound jumps from box eight in this Friday’s $40,000-to-the-winner final fresh from her super 29.70 triumph in last Sunday’s heats.
That win made it four wins from four visits to Gosford for Eva Diva since her debut in July this year, including a 29.66 success in October.
She has unplaced in two previous starts from box eight but Abela believes she can be a factor from the wide draw.
“There’s a lot of early speed in this race but she’s quick early too,” he said. “I think the fast greyhounds could go towards the rail and leave her alone to the first turn.
“There’s greyhounds here who can run 29.40 and I think she’s given us what she’s got time-wise, but if she gets that clear start I’m sure she can go well.”
Last Sunday’s victory extended Eva Diva’s record to eight wins and five minor placings from 16 starts.
She is also continuing the super record of Abela’s greyhounds at the NSW Central Coast track.
“Hilda’s Boy ran 29.33 at Gosford while all the ‘Osti’ greyhounds have done well there too,” Abela said.
“I don’t know if it’s the shape of the track or the sound of the lure, but they like Gosford.
“Realistically it’s a tough ask for Eva Diva but I’m confident she will go well.”
Victory would secure a second Group title for hobby trainer Abela, with Eva Diva’s mother Romantic Diva winning the 2007 Sydney Gold Cup.
Abela has been training for some 40 years, combining duties with running his family’s kitchen installation and renovation business.
“I leave most of the work to my family these days,” he said. “My greyhounds come first now.
“I still love training and the buzz of winning races. To put the hard work in and watch your greyhound win is hugely satisfying.
“I’ve been aiming for a win in this race for a few years. I’m really excited for Friday and if she can win, it will be a big thrill.”
All eight finalists have chances in what looks be an open Gosford Cup.
Fastest qualifier CASH In Motion ran 29.39 from box eight in the heats and will start the decider from her favourite box one.
She has won five of her previous six starts from box one and ran a sizzling 4.40 first sectional in her heat.
Second fastest qualifier Knight Sprite (box seven) looks to have drawn well and loves Gosford, having won four of his five previous starts.
Head Shy (box three) won his heat as a $32.50 shot in 29.65 and has won all five of his previous starts wearing the white rug.
For Gosford Friday fields, form and expert picks, click here.
Group 2 Woy Woy Poultry Supplies Gosford Cup Box Draw: 1. CASH in Motion 2. Smart Missile 3. Head Shy 4. Black Frenzy 5. Mitcharlie Mia 6. Irish Gangster 7. Knight Sprite 8. Eva Diva. Reserves: 9. Ritza Rossi 10: Fab Surfy.
