A step up in distance is likely to suit Local Bloke in the mixed grade Buck Fever @ Stud 0-1 Wins Stakes (race six, 618m) at Bathurst this afternoon.
The Steven Jones-trained greyhound jumps from box four today aiming to score a second career victory.
Local Bloke enjoyed a maiden triumph at Bathurst on August 29, cruising home by three-and-a-half lengths over the 450m.
This is his first competitive look over the 618 metres but Jones believes his greyhound is in with a strong winning hope.
“I think he’s a good chance,” he said. “I feel he’s looking for further than the 500 metres.
“He was run out of the race early at Richmond on his last start but ran home fairly well. He trialled at Bathurst last Thursday as well and he also came home quite strongly, which is another good sign.
“I’ve given him box practise this last week or so and he responded well to that. If he can bring his best box manners to this, he can certainly be competitive.”
This will be a first start from box four for Local Bloke, who has also placed well on his debut at Bathurst over the 307m last month.
The son of Zulu Zeus and Transmit is part of a handy litter that also includes Tell The World, who recorded a decent placing at Richmond on Friday night.
In other Bathurst Monday action, talented newcomer Nangar Rock (box two) looks the best in a quality Vic Hotel Sprint Final (race five, 450m).
The latest exciting pup from gun NSW Central West trainer Dennis Barnes, Nangar Rock has won three of his seven starts so far and scored a smart 25.80 triumph in last week’s heats.
Golden Honour (box two) returned to winning ways last week and can repeat that success in the Ladbrokes Monthly Medal (race eight, 618m).
The Keith Windus-trained greyhound has won twice and placed eight times in 16 starts and also scored four consecutive placings at Bathurst last month.
Queen Taro (box eight) faces some strong opposition but looks the best bet in the Ladbrokes Odds Boost Stakes (race nine, 450m).
The Jeanette Foley-trained greyhound is dangerous at country tracks and has built a handy record of 13 wins and 12 minor placings from 35 starts.
She has won on four of her last visits to Bathurst and is handy from the wide draw, having scored three victories and two minor placings in seven starts wearing the pink rug.
For Bathurst Monday fields, form and expert picks, click here.
