Greyhounds News / Editor / 21 April 2009 / Leave a comment

First round likely to take place early next month.

The Derby closes to entries on Wednesday with forms and entry forms being taken by Wimbledon now.
Current favourite at [10.5] is Fear Zafonic (pictured), who heads a strong team of Charlie Lister-trained runners at Tuesday's last batch of Derby trial stakes at Wimbledon.
Depending on the number of entries, the Derby starts with a split first round Thursday, April 30. But if not inundated with entries, the likelihood is that the first round will be staged at the Plough Lane venue on Friday and Saturday, May 1 and May 2.
Meanwhile, connections of College Causeway have repeated their reluctance to enter the dog at Wimbledon.
Last year's Shelbourne 600 winner is set to defend his title at the Dublin venue as opposed to making the trip to Wimbledon. College Causeway ran at Wimbledon on Racing Post Juvenile night, finishing second to Ninja Jamie and is currently trading at [29.0].
"The vibes coming out of Ireland suggest he won't go. But he wouldn't be the first dog to be subject of a late change of plan," said a Wimbledon insider. "At least punters haven't got long to wait - we will know either way come Wednesday when it closes."

* * *

Rumours are doing the rounds that a high-profile Irish-based trainer might be banned from running dogs in the Derby.
An apparent ruling from the Greyhound Board of Great Britain will refuse the handler not just the chance to trial runners at Plough Lane, but his entries will not be accepted by Wimbledon.
A source said: "It dates back to a ban the trainer served in England. It was many years ago, but someone at the NGRC/GBGB has not forgotten and he may not be allowed to travel.
"But it's a story which could run a bit."
Pat Buckley, College Causeway's trainer, will still be represented at Wimbledon with his team spearheaded by Scottish Derby winner Cabra Cool.
The dog and Buckley are eyeing the £1m bonus for winning all three Derbys.

* * *

Capel Wilson will aim to continue his fine run of form in Thursday's semi-finals of the Regency.
Tony Gifkins' dog, who recently won the Queen Mother Cup at Sheffield, held off market rival Lorrys Options in his heat.
Following that effort, Capel Wilson is now a [4.2] chance to land the spoils in front of the Sky cameras in Tuesday's decider at Hove.

* * *

Another in-form greyhound is Drink Up Zorro and Paul Sallis's dog looks to land a quickfire big-race double when he goes in Friday's final of the Golden Sprint at Romford.
Already a winner of the Pall Mall at Oxford, Drink Up Zorro is on a six-timer in Friday's decider.

* * *

Some lively debate is expected at Tuesday's Question Time event at Harlow.
Organised by the Greyhound Board of Great Britain, the afternoon will features workshops and a question and answer session with industry figures.