Llandilo trainer Brian Tame is confident his greyhound When in Doubt can salute again in a heat of the Globe Memorial Richmond Riches Short Course series tonight.
When In Doubt jumps from box two in the first heat (race nine, 400m) of the riches series, a week after breaking through for his maiden victory in a best-of-night time of 22.82 over the same track and distance.
That was the son of Barcia Bale and Shoelace’s first run in almost a month and he seems to have benefited from a change in routine.
“He’s probably better suited to this distance at the moment,” Tame said.
“He was racing mostly over the 535 in strong fields. I gave him a couple of weeks off, freshened him up and it worked.
“He’s a dead set railer so this draw suits and he’s definitely got ability.
“I’m confident for tonight, but I’ll be smiling or crying after the first 30 feet. If he comes out nice and clean then they’ll struggle to catch him.”
When In Doubt’s toughest opponent in this race looks like Harperama in box four, who is having her first start in six weeks.
“He’s a real big baby who loves his cuddles," Tame said. "If I feed any of the other greyhounds before him, he goes nuts.
“I think his best form is about three months away yet (and) I do think he’ll run the 500 metres out. He’s got good burn on him and he’s a strong greyhound.
“If he gets out fine tonight, look out.”
Pick It Up and Camden Sky look the best bets in the second and third heats respectively.
The three heat winners, three runners-up and two fastest placegetters progress to next Friday’s $7000-to-the-winner final.
Tame also has his kennel star Diligent Miss jumping from box four in the 4/5th grade Kevin Waters Towing Stakes (race four, 400m).
Diligent Miss has won 24 races and has been a consistent performer on country tracks.
“The box isn’t a worry as there’s not many greyhounds that can lead her,” Tame said.
“The only concern is that she’s not too strong over the 400m now. I need a good track for her to win. If it’s wet, forget it.”
Best bet for the night looks like Yankee’s Ethics, who jumps from box two in the 4/5th grade Evolution Windows Stakes (race six, 535m).
The David Smith-trained greyhound won over this trip in April is a smart 30.56 and has won five of his 12 starts so far.
For Richmond Friday fields, form and expert picks, click here.
