Canalai has shone jumping from box seven and trainer Roger O’Neill believes she may do so again in tonight’s cracking Ladbrokes Red Dog Final (race seven, 407m) at Grafton.
The daughter of Black Magic Opal and Classy Love wears the black rug in a high-quality decider after qualifying with a hard-fought 23.29 win in last week’s heats.
That win extended Canalai’s career record to five victories and three minor placings from 15 starts, with four of those coming over the 407m at Grafton.
She has won three of her four previous starts from box seven, including that triumph last week and her mentor is confident of another strong display tonight.
“I’m expecting a good run from her,” O’Neill said.
“Box seven suits as she usually comes out well and runs straight. The test will be whether she can cross the greyhounds on her inside and hold them out.
“This is her hardest race so far but she’s got ability and I think she’s got a chance.”
This looks a terrific final, with most of the field having claims.
Harperama (box eight) looks a talented newcomer for gun local trainer Dave Irwin, clocked a smart 22.93 over this distance last month and has won two of her three previous races wearing the pink rug.
Marilena Franco (box three) is another highly promising pup, while Cosmic Marlow (box six) possibly lacks the speed of the best in this race but has won his last three starts and warrants consideration.
“Harperama looks dangerous and there’s some good greyhounds inside her,” O’Neill said.
“Having said that, Canalai can run quicker times than she’s been running. If she puts her best foot forward then she’ll lead and I think it will then come down to the last ten metres.
“I’ve had a decent run of success since about November last year and if your dogs are going good, you’ve got to feel good.”
Newcastle Brown (box five) has been racing strongly and can salute in a high quality race two over the 407m.
The Tracy Hindmarsh-trained greyhound has scored four wins and six minor placings in his last 11 starts and has placed twice in two starts wearing the yellow rug.
Cosmic Wants Too (box four) finished third in strong company at Wentworth Park last week and looks ready to score another win in race five over the 480m.
A consistent performer for local trainer Lawrence Meteyard, Cosmic Wants Too has won his two previous starts over this distance at Grafton and clocked a smart 27.43 in the process.
Box one specialist Aristotle has his favourite box one draw in race nine and looks one of the night’s best bets.
The Sonia Kempshall-trained greyhound has won all nine of his previous starts wearing the red rug.
For Grafton Monday fields, form and expert picks, click here.
