Impressive heat winner Willie Blues can continue his trainer Denice Warren's super run of recent form with victory in today's opening Bathurst RSL Soldiers Saddle semi-final (race 4, 520m).
Willie Blues jumps from box six in the first of four semi-finals of the $10,000-to-winner series after scoring an impressive 29.62 victory in last week's heats, in what was his first start in more than three months
"I was surprised that he ran that time (but) he has shown he has that ability," Warren said
"The distance isn't a problem for Willy Blues - I thought one day he might run the 700 metres.
"His only problem is he's not a reliably beginner but he can handle any draw. Really, I think whoever leads in these races will be hard to beat.
"I'm just hoping he can stay fit. If he does, he's in with a chance for the series."
Willie Blues led them home by a commanding 12-and-a-half lengths last week, running just 0.15 outside Buck Fever's track record.
He looks a handy performer for Southern Tablelands-based Warren, who is enjoying a purple patch of form.
"I think Something New's victory for me at Goulburn last week made it five wins and two placings for me in seven starts," she said.
"I'm delighted, although in racing it can all come crashing down for you.
"Both Willie Blues and Cosmic Series, who has box six in the second semi-final, look decent chances for me at Bathurst if they continue their form.
"I have to say though that I think Falcon's Fury is the one to beat in the series."
Falcon's Fury (box four), an improving newcomer for gun NSW Central West mentor Paul Braddon, looks the top pick in the second semi-final (race five).
A winner of six of his eight starts so far, Falcon's Fury scorched round in 29.65 last week and looks highly promising.
Lutiger (box seven) is hitting strong form after a long break and looks the best bet in the third semi-final (race six).
The Shaun Evans-trained greyhound placed over the 472m at Bulli on October 31 after eight months out and then won his heat impressively last week from box eight.
Tank The Weapon (box two) has been a terrific recent performer for Neville Brown and can score another win in the fourth semi-final (race seven).
The son of Don't Knocka Him and Princess Mea has won three of his last four starts and triumphed from box six last week in a smart 30.20.
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