In Brief
- Six heats of the Group 2 Launceston Cup series provide outstanding fields.
- Powerhouse sprinter Wynburn Sheean leads the local charge on the series.
- Eagles Nest Egg flying well on his preparation following a slick 29.47 trial.
The Group 2 Ladbrokes Launceston Cup series kicks off on Monday night with six thrilling heats at the Ladbrokes Racing Centre on route to the $40,000 feature final on Monday week.
The iconic circle race has a long proud history, first conducted way back in 1936, and to this very day continues to produce outstanding winners, most recently Cashien in last year’s race.
Some very smart greyhounds have assembled for the heats including the latest sensation in the state, Wynburn Sheean, who was freakish in his effort taking out the Buckle Up Wes Rising Stars a fortnight ago.
Among the small interstate line up set to take on the locals for the $40,000 prize, the ex-Tasmanian bred Eagles Nest Egg makes his state debut following his brilliant campaign through the National Derby series.
The Rodney Campbell-owned son of Superior Product and Princess Roman is prepared in Victoria by Brendan Pursell and from 19 starts the fawn flyer has won nine races with five minor placings and $42,625 in prizemoney.
Overseeing the chasers’ preparations for the two week series is Brighton trainer Blake Pursell, who says the dog is in fantastic order, having been virtually up since mid-January tackling major interstate events.
“My dad (Brendan Pursell) has sent the dog over ready to compete and he looks outstanding,” Blake said.
“We’re pretty confident Eagles Nest Egg would handle Launceston well and the trial last week certainly proved that running 29.47, his sectionals showed he has the speed to lead which is crucial on a tight track like Launceston.
“He definitely has the motor to match its ability and with a clear beginning he should run extremely well.”
Classed as the hardest of all six heats, Eagles Nest Egg will take on rival Victorian Bees and Honey in the fifth heat.
The Cooper Hayes-trained Bees and Honey embarks on its first interstate assignment and by all reports after a 29.75 exhibition trial, it will take a mighty hand to defeat the Barcia Bale x Melissa’s Pride chaser who is racing in great form.
Handed down the yellow rug for the fifth heat, Blake is hopeful Eagles Nest Egg has the speed to overcome the awkward draw, while Bees and Honey comes from off the rails in box one which will be a great contest to witness.
The six heat winners plus the two fastest second placegetters will go through to the Group 2 final on 15 February.