NSW trainer of the moment Noelene Holloway believes One Samuel could be peaking at the right time for tonight’s Group 2 Ladbrokes Cyril Rowe Bulli Gold Cup (472m).
The in-form greyhound (box seven, $9.50 with Sportsbet) looks one of the best value chances for tonight’s $40,000-to-the-winner decider after winning his heat last week in impressive fashion.
One Samuel outshone kennelmate Magic Spring, who won last month’s Group 1 National Derby for Holloway but failed to qualify from last week’s heats.
He has won once and placed once since returning from a three-month break and owner-trainer Holloway said her greyhound was primed for another strong performance tonight.
“It didn’t surprise me how well he did last week,” she said. “He trialled very well beforehand, so I was quietly confident he could go well.
“He’s been running up the straight at home as quick as Magic Spring and I thought he could be a bit quicker than Magic Spring at Bulli.
“He is feeling and looking good and I think he’s got a chance.”
One Samuel was a commanding winner in last week’s heats, jumping strongly from box two and powering home by three-and-three-quarter lengths in 26.25.
That extended the son of Spring Gun and Fascinate Mary’s career record to five wins and 11 minor placings from 29 starts.
Last week was only his second appearance at the NSW South Coast track but he has saved his best performances for the 400m and 450m at Maitland, a similar track to Bulli, where he has won twice and placed four times in nine visits.
“I’ve always had a high opinion of him and thought he could contend for these races,” Holloway said.
“It will be tough from box seven but he’s capable of jumping well and then mustering enough speed to get into the race.
“This is an open race and I think everyone’s got a chance. It’s going to depend on how they get away, but certainly I think he can run a good race.”
All eight finalists are in with a shout in what looks a very open final.
Exciting newcomer Ritza Lenny ($2.80) will likely start favourite and was the fastest heat qualifier in 26.15.
He has run 26.02 at Bulli but will likely have his work cut out from box eight and will need to jump faultlessly.
Double Group winner Black Bear Lee ($4, pictured) looks to be superbly drawn in box three and has won three times and placed four times in his last eight starts, including last week’s impressive 26.21 victory.
Barking Bad (box one, $5) was a surprise heat winner last week but has now won his last four starts.
He is not always the fastest starter but has a strong motor and from this box looks a big threat.
The final is part of a high-calibre night’s racing at Bulli with action starting at 7.18pm.
For Sportsbet’s odds on tonight’s Bulli meeting, click here.
For Bulli Friday fields, form and expert picks, click here.
Group 2 Ladbrokes Cyril Rowe Gold Cup Box Draw: 1. Barking Bad ($5) 2. Nangar Flash ($9) 3. Black Bear Lee ($4) 4. Nangar Flame ($6.50) 5. Pedro Cerrano ($10) 6. Black Bordeaux ($21) 7. One Samuel ($9.50) 8. Ritza Lenny ($2.80).
Prices correct at the time of writing.
