THE first round of heats of the Minister’s Gift at Devonport last week highlighted the depth of talent that exists in Tasmania’s middle grade ranks.
The series is restricted to Tasmania bred dogs that have reached no higher than grade three level on all tracks.
It usually produces a great final and this year’s event should be no exception.
The make-up of the final will be determined on a point-score basis from two sets of heats with the second round of heats in Hobart this Thursday night.
The winner of each heats earns 11 points with second allocated eight, third earns six and fourth four points reducing by one through to seventh place.
Dilston Gold made the most of his inside draw to win his heat and earn maximum points ahead of Big Zeus and Abira.
The Neville Allison-trained dog has been in good form of late and with a good record on the Hobart track he looms as a likely finalist.
Bandit’s Mistake was the quickest heat winner, clocking 25.62 on his way to a 4-1/2 length win over Camdale Wolfe.
Bandit’s Mistake began well from box four but was unable to cross Blofeld that led to the home turn but capitulated when Bandit’s Mistake sped by.
Buckle Up Man impressed with the way he won the first of the five heats.
Calamac Lad led from seven but when Buckle Up Man (8) applied the pressure the leader4 wilted and Buckle Up Man went on to score by over five lengths in a time of 25.83.
The Shane Whitney-trained Crime Fighter won his heat by almost a length from consistent bitch Troublesome Miss with Sting a close-up third.
Outsider Chudley secured maximum points when he won the final heat from Brother Jack and Laurels winner Patsy Anne that had no luck.
The connections of the winner of the Minister’s Gift final in Launceston on October 26 will take home $10,000.