American Monster looks capable of defying a tricky draw and a host of strong opponents to win Thursday night’s Group 1 Luxbet Hobart 1000 (461m).
The Victorian (pictured) jumps from box five in the $75,000-to-the-winner decider after extending his career record to an impressive 21 wins and 10 minor placings from 44 starts with a 26.00 triumph from box two in last week’s heats.
That win continued American Monster’s terrific year, which has included a runner-up placing in the Group 2 Shepparton Cup and reaching two other Group finals.
He has won four of his five previous starts from box five and trainer Ashlee Terry believes her greyhound can salute from the squeeze box yet again.
“I don’t know why he goes so well from box five,” she said. “I think he tends to stick to his line pretty well.
“We would have liked to have been drawn inside but it could’ve been worse.
"Zipping Bruiser in box six is a good greyhound but maybe not always fastest out, so ours could get a clear run early.
“We decided not trial him before last week’s run and just see how he went. Everything there was new and different for him, so to win his heat was a terrific effort.”
Terry will jet down to Hobart on the day after staying at her Cranbourne South base to watch last week’s heats.
American Monster has stayed in Hobart ahead of the race and looks to be in peak shape for the decider.
“By all accounts he’s in great condition,” Terry said. “He’s had two runs up the straight where he’s staying and we’re letting him do his thing.
“I think the long straight at Hobart suits his racing style. He is such a beautiful greyhound to train and there’s no real secret with him.
“It’s such a good field and he’ll need luck, but he’s got a chance.”
The strong opposition is led by exciting talent El Grand Amigo (box one), who has won six of his first eight starts and will likely start favourite from the rails draw.
Last year’s winner, the brilliant Victorian hopeful Unlawful Entry (box two), has won all three of his starts at Hobart also looks a big threat.
Fastest heat winner Count Baroque (box three), one of two contenders for gun local trainer Ted Medhurst, clocked a smart 25.93 last week and with two wins and three minor placings in his last five starts looks a strong chance.
Chief Jetpilot (box eight) has only had one previous start wearing the pink rug but produced an incredibly strong finish last week and looks the best roughie chance.
“I know a lot of the pace looks to be on the inside here,” Terry said. “He’ll need to stick close to them and get close to them.
“We’re really excited to make another Group race but however he does we are proud of him.
“For me, it’s not about the money – it’s being able to achieve something.
“We cannot wait for race time now.”
Fifteen Two (box four), Zipping Bruiser (box six) and Celtic Kid (box seven) complete the field.
For Hobart Thursday fields, form and expert picks, click here.
