GREYHOUND trainer Ted Medhurst is no stranger to having multiple representatives in feature race finals so it will come as no surprise that his kennel boasts the likely favourites in four of the five heats of the Illingworth Classic series in Launceston tonight.
Quality bitch Demi Cali (No 6) will represent the kennel in the opening heat (race 4) and should she show her usual early speed she could cross and be the one to run down but she will have to be at her top to outrun the Anthony Bullock-trained Mavista Falls (3) to the first turn.
In the second heat (race 5) Medhurst has two chances in Lovely banks (3) and the highly talented Prescribe (5) but if Prescribe flies the lids and leads it will be all over bar the shouting.
Medhurst’s brilliant pup Hey Franklin that has won five from seven will represent the kennel in the third heat (race 6) from box eight which is not the best box if the dog misses the start.
Hay Franklin usually begins well and he only needs to be in the leading three swing out of the first turn to be the one to beat with the Gary Fahey-trained Breaker’s Tip the hardest to beat.
The speedy Mandy Charm (2) is drawn to lead in the fourth heat (Race 7) and should that eventuate the talented bitch will take some catching.
Last start Hobart winner Dark Vito has drawn box one in the final heat (race 8) and should the reigning Devonport Cup winner replicate is effort to win at Tattersall’s Park last Thursday night he should be too good but he will get plenty of strong opposition from Bruny venture (4) and Priority Punter (3).