In Brief
- Wayne Howells celebrates his first major win as a trainer.
- Owner/trainer worked on boosting the chaser's confidence levels.
- Dysart-based conditioner credits wife Sharon for the support.
Wayne Howells celebrated the biggest win of his training career in Launceston on Monday night when Casino Ace scored a determined victory in the Greyhound-Data Tasmanian Derby Final.
Having finished fourth in a heat of the local derby last week Casino Ace was sent to the boxes as the third favourite at $6 with Lord Disick ahead of the betting at $2.60 with Kintyre next best at $3.20.
Jumping brilliantly from box two, the white and black greyhound drove to a clear early lead in the charge towards the first turn, setting the pace from Tah Matt who remained in striking distance.
The Fernando Bale – Avondale Queen chaser kicked away coming off the back straight to score by almost three lengths from the fast finishing Kintyre with Tah Matt holding on in third position.
Casino Ace registered a strong time of 30.03 while notching up his ninth career win from 36 starts.
Dysart owner/trainer Wayne Howells was elated with Casino Ace stepping up to a major race win.
“A great effort, the box draw was a massive help in his favour,” the proud owner/trainer stated.
“Since the COVID-19 shutdown this dog was lacking confidence, so I made the effort in taking the dog up to Devonport for a few runs there and that really put him on target for the derby.
Casino Ace began his early career in New South Wales under the guidance of leading trainer John Finn and since purchased by Howells the dog has collectively won six races in the state from 23 starts.
Litter mates of Casino Ace have won 41 starts combined with $130,000 in prizemoney collected.
Having greyhounds to either breed, rear or train is a huge team effort no matter if it’s a full time or part time basis and Wayne is forever grateful for the help and support of his wife Sharon Howells.
“I couldn’t do it without Sharon’s help and support, it’s a big effort to breed and train and does take effort; I’ve trained dogs before previously though winning the Tassie Derby is a big thrill,” he said.
Watch Casino Ace (box 2) win the Greyhound-Data Tasmanian Derby in Launceston.