Mack Tux was only a late entry for the Group 2 Ladbrokes Richmond Derby (535m) but trainer Bruce King’s decision could pay off in tonight’s $40,000-to-the-winner decider.
The consistent son of Lochinvar Marlow and Oxley Falcon jumps from box three in the terrific final aiming to further improve his record of 10 wins and nine minor placings from 24 starts.
Mack Tux finished second in his heat last week after being run down by in-form Wicked Warrior but has a brilliant record on his local track, scoring five wins and three minor placings from nine appearances at the western Sydney circuit.
Usually a fast starter with a strong record over the 400m, Mack Tux is likely to lead early but has only won once in three attempts over the 535m.
“That’s the big question – can he hang on,” King said. “He was eventually run down last week after starting well.
“Last week was his best time yet over this distance and he seems to be getting stronger.
“I wasn’t going to go the Derby, but he had a brilliant win over the 520 metres at Wentworth Park at the start of the month which changed my mind.
“He’s pulled up well, is in good condition and is ready to go.”
Mack Tux has yet to win in two starts over the 535m at Richmond but clocked a speedy 29.80 winning that 520m race at Wentworth Park on March 1.
He has won once and placed twice in five previous starts jumping from box three and looks one of the best drawn of the finalists.
“He cherishes the red but box three isn’t bad for him,” King said.
“I actually think Patch Adam is the one to beat from box seven (but) if Mack Tux can beat Barking Bad from box two to the first turn and lead, he’s in contention.
“Whatever happens, this series will have made him a lot stronger for the Easter Egg series in a couple of weeks (and) he’s maturing into a really good racer now.
“I’m not expecting to win to be honest it’s such a tough race, but he’s looking good and he can be competitive.”
This should be a brilliant conclusion to the series, which is open to male greyhounds only.
Patch Adam (box seven) will likely start favourite after qualifying fastest in 30.41 last week from box one.
He moves to box seven this week but is unbeaten in two previous starts wearing the black rug and was schooled at the track.
Wicked Warrior (box five) has won his last five starts, while Ritza Lenny (box six) is awkwardly drawn but is a brilliant talent and has a sizzling best of 30.32 over this trip.
Recent Group 2 Gosford Cup winner Barking Bad (box two) has a strong record from the checks and brilliantly won his heat last week.
El Magnifico (box one), Winsome Mission (box four) and Nangar Flame (box eight) complete the field.
For Richmond Friday fields, form and expert picks, click here
