Greyhound Racing NSW’s middle distance added prizemoney program has been a boon for participants and, at Dapto on Thursday, Mack Boy steps out for the second time over 600m with $5000 the reward should he prevail.
The blue fawn dog had his first middle distance assignment at the Showgrounds circuit on September 30, finishing 4 ¼ lengths third to the smart Wicked Flash in a very handy 34.48 seconds.
While well held at the business end, Mack Boy battled very solidly and his final section (13.13) was only one length slower than that of the more seasoned victor.
From box six, Mack Boy is expected to race on speed and the alley suits his mid-track racing pattern.
Significant prizemoney increases across all levels (and distances) have been announced by GRNSW (commencing November 1) and will complement the middle distance program.
Races across the state, beyond 440m, will offer winning prizemoney in the vicinity of $2000 (up from $1500) for grade five events while longer distance and higher grades will be higher.
Another $5000 purse is on offer in Race 5 – the first Quadrella leg – and it’s a competitive Grade Five Final. Fastest heat winner Due West (Box 1) has age and experience on his side, yet punters will warm to Ruth King’s youngsters Asiram (5) and Margie Irene (7).
The rising two-year-olds have done all their racing at Dapto. Asiram secured his September 30 heat in 30.02 while Margie Irene chased Due West home in 29.95, finishing just three lengths away in a gritty effort.
