Auckland Greyhound

MTA Auckland Cup and Magic Sprite Railway Heats

Well the months and weeks have flown by and Auckland Cup week is on us again. We have four heats for the MTA Auckland Cup and six heats of the Magic Sprite Railway sprint on the twelve race card on Thursday 1st March starting at 4.40pm.

Before we have a quick look at the heats what a sensational performance by Bigtime Kinvara in the NZRS 527m final last Sunday. Bigtime Kinvara picked the jump spot on and lead throughout in a breath taking 30.17sec. This propels the youngster into the foremost chances for the MTA Auckland Cup.

Let's have a look at the various heats:

Race 3 5.15pm Railway Heat 1

Very even line up. The Southerners Nippa Mary, Pretty Good and Callahen will do battle with locals Captain Coutts and Kissin Kate.

Race 4 Railway Heat 2

Interesting line up. Motherlee, Dallas Beauty and Donna Baxter will do battle with Captain Carlos and the unknown Complicit- Very even heat.

Race 5 Auckland Cup Heat 1

The brilliant Bigtime Kinvara does battle with a very good Southerner in Another Dollar. The promising Koko Whiz from the Schofield kennels and Dave Fahey's Ultimate Dream will ensure a very good contest.

Race 6 Railway Heat 3

Top northern sprinter Matanuska does battle with the smart youngster Roy Hobbes and last weeks very impressive class four winner One Tough Cookie who has previously won well in open class. The draw makes this a very tricky heat.

Race 7 Railway Heat 4

The top but unsound Central District sprinter Big Gift has the red rug and the youngster Snikco from the Craik kennels has box 4. This is a battle of real speed and will be a grand contest.

Race 8 Auckland Cup Heat 2

The ever consistent Benny Rox is well placed in the 2 and is up against Three Inch Nail and the Southerner Yella Mustard. The later is very strong and if he handles Manukau could be very hard to hold out.

Race 9 Auckland Cup Heat 3

Very even indeed- The ever consistent Kazz Razz faces Sam I am and Badja Bale from the Roberts kennels.Mint Power and Lochinvar Valero will make their presence felt for the Schofield team. Darlyne Ottey from the outside trap may well lead up- Interesting race to say the least.

Race 10 Railway Heat 5

Looks ready made for Stiff from box 4. Lochinvar Yasi very well drawn in the 8.

Race 11 Auckland Cup heat 4

The race of the night- The wonder bitch Little Mother matches paws with Manukau freak Have A Yap, dual group one winner Know Peace and promising youngster Lochinvar Elle. Worth waiting to the end of the night to view.

Race 12 Railway heat 6

My Jack Attack wears the red rug and is a wonderfully consistent sprinter. Mirage is racing well and Colllision Risk draws nicely in the pink.

This is one of the best nights racing of the year. Get along and see some quality greyhounds match motors in their endeavour to be finalists in the MTA Auckland Cup and the Magic Sprite Railway Sprint.

Sunday 26th February

There are some good races on offer today with the NZRS final being one of the features on the card Race 10 at 4.51pm. Visiting trainers John McInerney and Lisa Ahern have the warm favourites in Kazz Razz and Bigtime Kinvara. Kazz Razz is in good form at the moment having won a NZRS final earlier in the month at Wanganui with an unlucky Bigtime Kinvara running second. Kazz Razz and Bigtime Kinvara meet again last week with Kazz Razz finishing third behind champion bitch Little Mother in the Manukau Cup Stakes, Bigtime Kinvara was having his first look at the track and looked a little lost when running sixth so will be the natural improver. Local runners Alabaster and Swift Swinger could be potential upsetters if they were to find the lead going into the first corner. We have a thirteen race programme today so there is plenty of good racers on offer with the $15,000 Pick6 commencing on race 8. .  

Little Mother wins Manukau Cup

If you were on course last Sunday you would have found yourself lucky enough to watch the sensational Little Mother demolish a good class five field in the Manukau Cup Stakes. Little Mother went into the seven box a warm favourite and delivered with over 4hl to spare on runner up Benny Rox stopping the clock at a quick 30.09 seconds.Little Mother is simply a freak and has revitalised greyhound racing in New Zealand with her feats on course. It is hard to believe that she has won over $340,000 in stakes but also goes to show that this sport has grown and with the right placement you can achieve this type of success. As we look to the 2012 Auckland Cup we ask ourselves can Little Mother's dream career end with a third successive Auckland cup? If you are a believer and a supporter of the magnificent Little Mother then be on course Thursday 1st March to watch what could possibly be history unfolding as Little Mother looks to secure her place in the final on Thursday 8th March.

Pictured: Little Mother with handler Brendon Cole

Sunday 19th February

Last Sunday we saw very competitive racing. The maiden sprint series heats were won by Hot Hope and High Flyer with the later scoring nicely in a handy time of 18.73. The class one sprint heats saw litter brother and sister Rivette Decoded and Team Jacob score for their trainer Ben Craik. Rivette Decoded lead and scored nicely where as Team Jacob was involved in a great finish scoring by a head from the dead heaters in Rando Reason and Bearly Possible. That was the closest thing to a triple dead heat that we have seen in recent times at Manukau. The class one middle distance heats were won by Spartacus and a hugely improved and impressive Dee Kay Em. Dee Kay Em will be a massive chance to take out the final. Koko Whiz graduated to open class with a nice win and Captain Coutts gave Henni Laagland a couple of winners for the day.

This Sunday we have attracted splendid fields as visitors start having a race or two at Auckland before the Auckland Cup carnival begins in early March. Manuaku patrons will get their first look at the classy youngster Bigtime Kinvara in the Manukau Cup (race 10) but he faces kennel mate and all round champion Little Mother. Lisa Ahern will also prepare Darlyne Ottey who has won her last two in good fashion. David Schofield has a strong hand in the field with back to back winner Benny Rox and the promising Koko Whiz starting for his team along with Mint Power an under rated chaser who could be the upsetter out of the one trap. The open class sprint (race 11) has four visiting dogs engaged as well as the very smart and well placed Thrilling Sight for leading strike rate trainer Gary Harding. The promising youngster Snicko is also engaged in this race. The other class five sprint (race 9) has quality right through it as well. My Jack Attack got a much deserved win last week at Waikato and has drawn well in the two trap. Steve Clark has a strong hand in the field with Collision Risk ideally drawn in the one trap  the improved Ripped Jeans will leave the five trap and Swift Swinger continues the odd box trend for Steve Clark by leaving the seven trap. Last weeks impressive first up winner in NZ Stylish Start backs up in race seven where she has drawn the red rug. Lochinvar Valero could offer an upset if he can make one of his quick starts and Tim's Tiger will be looking to get back to class five. The supporting races are packed with form and promising dogs so a top day at the dogs looks on this Sunday.

*** NZRS series is a final only- If you would like to see the final field not in box order- check out fields***

 

Sunday 12th February

Last Sunday we saw Benny Rox grab victory in a very competitive C5 527, just nailing victory from Thrilling Sprat and Mint Power right alongside them in third place. The youngster Snicko showed blistering speed to win the open class sprint in 18.16sec which is a season best at Manukau and given the track was not lightning fast, was a very tidy effort. Pampest scored his second upset victory in recent weeks in the class one 527 and rocked the Pick6 punters into submission. Cha Cha Chainsaw finished the job in the last which saw only .2% of a winning unit in Pick6.  Still this has lead to a guaranteed $25,000 Pick6 this Sunday, starting on race 8 on the thirteen race card. This looks to be a real challenge as the fields do look even and no obvious anchor stands out. We also have maiden sprint heats earlier in the program as well as class one sprint heats (2 in each case) and it is pleasing to see 2 heats of a class one series giving five 527m events on the program.

We look forward to seeing you all on Sunday for some more great greyhound action.

 

Family Day at the Races

This Monday we have a fourteen race programme commencing at 1.57pm. The TAB have given the club an extra $15,000 guaranteed pick6 a favourite with the locals, and we have entertainment booked for the kids and good prizes to be won. The highlight on the programme would have to be the return of NZ's highest stake earner and darling Little Mother in the Auckland Anniversary Cup. Little Mother lines up in a good field with the inform Schofield kennels lining up Benny Rox and litter mates Lochinvar Laredo and Lochinvar Valero. The quality does not end there, Karen Walsh will produce Thrilling Boss and Thrilling Sprat on the day both well performed chasers at Auckland. The City of Sails Sprint Series Final is a family affair with My Jack Attack, Motherlee and Kissin Kate looking to add to their litters already impressive win record. We have another class 5 318 on the card a little earlier on in the day with the speedy Dallas Beauty drawn to suit in the eight. Fancy Milly will be a danger from the one and has won previously this track and distance.

It is also Family Day at the races this Monday, Nicole and her team from Imaginaire Entertainment will be along to supervise the Treasure Hunt and running races. Nicole will also have an activity station set up during the Face Painting and Balloon Scuplting time. Bounce and Play will be on course to assist with the kids entertainment.

Last Sunday we saw Benny Rox score again in the Kevin Coutts Memorial Cup and Snicko backed up his Cambridge win with a nice victory after a tardy start. We also had a treble dividend at an excess of $7,900 when Story Rhode (18/1), Cherry Tree Lane (5/1) and Ascending Force (8/1) combined took out their races, who said payouts are smaller in greyhound racing. It just shows you there is good monies to be won if you can hit the right combinations.

Good punting everyone and see you on Monday.

Pictured- Pam Coutts presenting Benny Rox and David Schofield with the Kevin Coutts Memorial Cup

Let's race 2012

The new year is here and we have had both favourites and upsets win at the first two meetings in the New Year. The meeting held on Thursday the 5th January saw the running of the Auckland Vending Sprint Heat Series for class one sprinters. The three heats were taken out by On Trey for David Schofield and Team Jacob and Cool And Dry for local trainer Ben Craik. On Trey made good ground late to secure his win and showed a preference for the rail. Team Jacob a recent downgrade back to class one made good use of the red rug and Cool And Dry sat nicely to run down the in form Moon Warrower who went on to win on Sunday. Fancy Toby earned a much deserved win in the class four Carol's TABS Stakes on Thursday night. Fancy Toby had been runner up to kennel mate Have A Yap in recent weeks and has now joined her in the open class ranks. Fancy Toby was also able to back up on Sunday for another fine win. Roy Hobbes who has done most of his racing at Waikato and Manawatu raceway recently commenced racing at Auckland and has found an instant liking to the track winning three from three and grabbed a double in class four on Thursday and Sunday.

On Sunday we had the running of the Reel-Fishin.com Sprint Series heats. The heats were taken out by Punk Dino for David Schofield and Motherlee for Keith Sutch- Jones. Keith Sutch- Jones continues on his winning way with his superb Zac Attack- Gentle Lee litter. The final of both the Auckland Vending and Reel-Fishin series are to be held this Sunday the 15th January. Both finals will no doubt draw interest as even fields have been assembled and as in most sprint races the speed out of the boxes should determine the winner.

Have A Yap makes a welcome return to Auckland and goes up against many of her inform kennel mates. Lochinvar Valero is coming off a sound second in the Group Two Waikato classic and is ideally drawn in the one box. Fancy Toby is gathering momentum and Benny Rox is a threat if he can find the lead. The class 2/3 527 has also drawn a handy field with the recently downgraded Hustler, Princess Shiloh and Hair He Is looking for a quick return to form. They face some solid competition in the likes of McKone and Alabaster.

There are plenty of good races on Sunday and we look forward to seeing you on course where the action is better live!

Last Meeting of the year

This Thursday afternoon/evening sees the last meeting for the 2011 year at Manukau. A good competitive 11 race card with full fields is carded. The Sel's TAB Mangere stakes features the sensational Have A Yap. Have A Yap won the Founders Day Cup in great fashion last Sunday and once again will be tough to beat. There are a couple of C4/5 318 races during the card with race 6 drawing a very even field. Collision Risk looks the one to beat in race 9 and also returned to winning form last Sunday. There are some good supporting races with the C1 527 and C2/3 527 looking like stand outs.

The Founders Plate for the open class sprinters was won by the impressive Thrilling Sight for breeder and trainer Gary Harding. Thrilling Sight is out of former railway winner Aztec Keroma and has been blessed with her speed and ability.

Peter Henley and Steve Clark both grabbed three winners each last Sunday. Peter with Proven Shelly, Fancy Milly and Crafty Graham and Steve with Collision Risk, Swift Swinger and Moody Tunes- Well done. 

A good crowd was on course for the Founders Day promotion and all appeared to enjoy the day which the Club is promoting as an annual event. It was also an excellent occasion for the Club to thank Reel-Fishin.com and Auckland Vending for their sponsorship during the year.

The AGRC President Phil Green and the board would like to extend their Best Wishes for Christmas and wish everyone a Happy New Year. We would also like to thank our loyal patrons and members for their support during 2011. We are indeed grateful as we are well aware of the economic enviroment that is with us at present.

We also wish our sister club Waikato and Districts the very best with their 2 day Christmas and Holiday meetings!

We say Farewell to a Good Friend and Founders Day this Sunday 18th December

We are holding our annual Founders day meeting this Sunday, which allows us to recognise some of the people who were instrumental in bringing racing to Auckland. Last year we recognised Presidents past and present, this year we have named several of the races after the winners on the first day of racing at Manukau Stadium in 1989.

Despite Group sprint and middle distance racing at Wanganui on Friday night, we have attracted good fields for the open class Founders Plate (318) and Founders Cup (527). The Founders Plate features the likes of My Jack Attack, Thrilling Sight and the rejuvenated Embezzlement. The Founders Day cup features Manukau freak Have A Yap for David Schofield, David also lines up Winsome Flash, Emblazing and Fancy Toby all possible chances if Have A Yap got held up in the running. The unknown runner in Exemplified will certainly add spice to the race trainer Gary Harding will have him ready to go.

This week is the last of $5k bonus quaddies that have proved very popular. Oncourse punters helped themselves to plenty last Sunday so lets hope it runs into this Sunday as well.

On a sadder note, the Club notes with deep regret the passing of Mary Knight, wife of the late Terry Knight, a very popular figure around greyhound racing. 

Mary was a regular at Manukau, helping with handling on race day and spending many happy Sunday afternoons with her longtime friend Barbara Craik.

Terry and Mary had tremendous success as both owners and trainers and won three Auckland Cups to name a few. They raced the likes of Metal Band, Talofa, Uli Uli, Top Option, Icy Touch and Holmes Boy. They hold the distinction of training Melbourne Cup winner Kwik Metal back in 1974 a feat which Peter Henley so rightly said at Mary's funeral, is highly unlikely to be repeated by a NZ trainer.   

Mary Knight was not only good with her greyhounds she was also the best Wife, Mother, Sister, Grand Mother, Aunt and Friend a person could ask for, she was a superb cook and to many will be remembered for her signature Pineapple Meringue pie dish. Mary also loved to dance- and spent many an evening with Terry on the dance floor. To say the world has lost someone truly special is an understatement- Mary was one of a kind a real gem and will be missed by the Manukau faithful.

Pictured Mary Knight with Barbara Craik and Embezzlement

 

Thrilling Ransom wins NZRS Final- Have A Yap wins her 10th race of the season and Founders Day is approaching

There was no denying Thrilling Ransom as he demolished his rivals in the NZRS final on Sunday 20th November. Thrilling Ransom the race favourite did not disappoint winning by 5L with his kennel mate Thrilling Tale in second and the improved Tim's Tiger in third for his Southern connections. Karen Walsh and Gary Harding are having a superb run at the moment with Karen in Australia with the brilliant Thrilling Brat and Thrilling Quest competing in the Final of the Group Three Summer Cup over 720 metres at Wentworth Park this Saturday.

Have A Yap notched up her 10th win of the season at Auckland last Sunday running a strong 30.16. Have A Yap has been sensational for David and Denis Schofield and continues to hold on to her title as the Queen of Auckland.

Henny Laagland and family have had recent success with their Meticulous- Kitty's Thunder litter. Ruby Tron, Cotswald Prince, Mr. Meticulous and Percentage Man have all won races recently at Auckland and Captain Coutts a kennel mate and also a recent winner has  been running along nicely for the Laagland kennels.

It's been over a year since we lost a good friend and club member Gary Donovan. This year with the support of Gary's family we ran the first of the Gary Donovan Memorial Sprint races.We intend to make this race an annual event. This year Matanuska won the Gary Donovan Memorial race for Linda and Mike Martin and recorded his 10th Straight open class win.

Pictured: Matanuska with Eugene Donovan & Son and trainer Linda Martin GARY DONOVAN MEMORIAL RACE

On Sunday 18th December we will be holding our annual Founders Day race meeting. We had a good turn out last year with plenty of old friends on course throughout the day. We have Afternoon Tea packages. For more information email greyhound@clear.net.nz

 

Racing Sunday 20.11.11

Last week we witnessed Have A Yap return to her absolute best winning easily in 30.25 for the 527m. The youngster Snicko bolted in the C4 318 and clocked 18.33 the fasted time so far this season for the 318.  Motherlee and Punk Dino won the two heats of the Reel-Fishin.com sprint series and head the field for that final race 6 at 5.42pm.

This Sunday feature the $11,000 NZRS Series final with Karen Walsh having a strong hand in the final with Thrilling Ransom leading her team. Thrilling Ransom is no stranger to NZRS success and will be looking to add another feature final to his record. Matanuska heads back to Manukau in the Gary Donovan Memorial sprint and has drawn ideally in the eight box. Have A Yap will also start from the eight box in the C4/5 527, in which David Schofield will prepare six of the eight runners. The supporting card offers up some good racing, we look forward to seeing you on course this Sunday- Good Punting.

Members Bonus Day and this weeks racing

A very busy fortnight of racing at Manukau sees this Sunday with a full card of twelve races, which is a very good result. The Club has been very satisfied with the recent punters competitions and the members bonus day on Tuesday.

$500 (or a percentage there of) was on offer for all races on Tuesday for dogs that were by AGRC members. Nine of the winners were either partially or fully owned by members which resulted in a total payout to those connections of $3833.32.

The AGRC appreciates the loyalty of it/s members and are keen to show its thanks by events like Tuesday's bonuses.

The fields for Sunday, as per above have stood up really well. There are class 5 318 heats sponsored by Peter Sweetman from Reel- Fishin.com carded and a nice C4/5 527 event on race 10 that look like the standout events. The mid grade 527m events have been good contests of late and race 7 has drawn a tidy field to ensure another good contest.

The Pick6 on races 7-12 looks to have a couple of good anchors in it, but just how often in recent weeks have we been caught out with this.

Good punting everyone and we look forward to seeing you all on Sunday.

 

Racing This Sunday

This Sunday we have a nice quick fire programme of 11 races, commencing at 2.23pm and all over by 5.16pm. Rather even fields are order of the day with the feature being race 9 the class 5 527 with Have A Yap in the four box. Have A Yap returned to winning form on Tuesday and will be hard to beat again.

The class 5 sprint (race eleven) is very even without the likes of Matanuska in the field a hard way to finish Pick6.

We had a punter's challenge with members of the Huntly RSA on course last Sunday. A great day was had and we thank the Huntly RSA for their on going support.

On Melbourne Cup night we had another punter's challenge with Reece Plumbing on course. Again it was a very enjoyable night and we thank Reece Plumbing for their support.

This Tuesday coming (08/11/11) we have a 12 race rapid programme commencing at 12.00 noon and concluding at 3.10pm. This meeting features the $500 bonus for any dog owned by an AGRC member that wins a race on the day- More information can be found under upcoming events.

This is the clubs Thank you to our loyal members and lets hope a good number of member owned dog's can salute the judge.

Good Punting at both meetings.

Punter's competition and this Sundays racing

This Sunday we see a later start to our race meeting with a finishing time of 7.47pm. We have a Punter's Challenge set down for this Sunday and hope to have several teams of six competing against each other- For more information on the Punter's Challenge please visit the competitions page.

There are 12 even fields carded with the highlights being the Sel's TAB Mangere Stakes C4/5 527 at 6.25pm, followed by the Reel-Fishin.com Sprint Series final C5 318 at 6.45pm and then we have a nice C2/3 527 assembled at 7.05pm The Thornton Auctions Stakes.

Please remember we are racing here again on Tuesday 1st November, Melbourne Cup day with the facilities open from 3.30pm onward.

What a thrill it was to witness Little Mother monster the Waterloo Cup Group one field. Just how good is the freakish greyhound. Her earnings are in excess of $260K and she has thrilled the Manukau faithfuls during her visits North. This was her last outing at Manukau as she is scheduled to complete her racing career after the NZ cup meeting in November. We have seen many high class greyhounds over the years at Manukau. But this bitch must surely rate amongst the best of not the best, she has performed at top level for most of her career and always delivered top class performances.

We thank her for the memories and just dream of having one of her class to call your own!

Little Mother, Big Heart

Little Mother has once again demonstrated why she is one of the best greyhounds if not the best greyhound to race here in NZ. Last Sunday afternoon Little Mother crushed a Group One field in the Waterloo Cup final running a slick 30.05 with over 3 lengths to spare on runner up and local favourite Have A Yap. To witness Little Mother win week in and week out in open class is amazing, but add multiple group races to her wins and it is unbelievable what she has been able to accomplish since starting her career in NZ August 2009. We have been very fortunate to have Little Mother grace the Auckland track and we salute her for her amazing wins in back to back Group one Auckland Cups and her win in the Group one Waterloo Cup. Little Mother sure has a big heart and has been prepared to perfection by trainer Lisa Ahern for Gordon Sciberras. Where ever the future may take Little Mother we wish her all the best and thank her for the wonderful memories.

Pictured Little Mother Before and After the running of the 2011 Waterloo Cup Final

Waterloo Cup heat and $25,000 Pick6

The Waterloo Cup heat at Auckland has drawn a good field with local favourite Have A Yap looking to return to winning form. David Schofield holds a strong hand in this field with the inform Benny Rox and Kilara's Fancy looking to make an impact on the day and Emblazing must be considered as he has the experience on his younger kennel mates. Thrilling Boss for Karen Walsh will be at his best and former kennel mate Thrilling Bolt has been racing good of late and must be considered a chance. Peter Henley will start Fancy Milly from the five and Embezzlent leaves the three trap for trainer Ben Craik.

The Zac Attack- Gentle Lee progeny will be looking for their 100th winner and have chances with the following representatives- Race 8 Kissin Kate, My Jack Attack, Gentle Lee and Rolled Oats. Race 13 Corporal Jones we wish Keith and Penny Sutch- Jones all the best in getting that 100th winner.

In other news Pick6 commences on race eight due to the thirteen race program. It's good to see an even amount of middle Distance and Sprint races carded during this time. We have a very nice Class Four 527 feature scheduled to leave the traps at 5.30pm with any one of the eight chasers a winning chance. The Class Three 527 race has some up and comers in this race looking to progress further up the grades, once again this field is open with many possibilities. This weeks Pick6 has a guaranteed winning pool of $25,000 well worth chasing.

Let's hope the Auckland Spring eases and we have a fine day and some good racing- Good Punting everyone!

 

Have A Yap Returns- Last week for On-Course All up competition

Have A Yap returns to Auckland this Sunday after competiting in the Sister City final which was won by South Island favourite Another Dollar. This New Zealand Breed dog has been very impressive since he started racng for the McInerney team and is a highly promising youngster with a huge restricted season in front of him.

This Sunday promises to be action packed with another clash between Have A Yap and Sergio race 8 at 5.55pm the Sel's TAB Mangere Stakes. David Schofield holds a strong hand in this field with last weeks winner Benny Rox drawing the stripes of box two. Buttony Boy missed the jump badly last week and made up big ground late to secure his third placing and would be a danger if he left the boxes on terms with the other chasers. The Reel-Fishin.com Series final has an even field assmebled from last weeks heats. My Jack Attack and Gentle Attack won each heat for Tokoroa trainer Mike Lozell. They will face tough competition from their sibling's Kissin Kate and Motherlee trained by Keith Sutch-Jones. Keith and Penny have had tremondous success with their Zac Attack- Gentle Lee litter and have reported another two whelpings from Riddle Man and Excite Ability.

Pictured- Gentle Attack and My Jack Attack

There is another $50,000 terminating Pick6 commencing on race 7 at 5.21pm and this is the last week of our $20 and $5 All Up competition. The large Plasma TV and Blu Ray recorder are there to be won with $730 in the $20 compeition and $27 in the $5 compeition leading the way.

This Sunday of course see the NRL Grand final and NSW Cup and Under 20 Toyota Cup Grand Finals. As we all know the mighty Warriors are represented in all finals and these matchs can be viewed on course. We will also make sure that the All Black- Canada match is also on screen, so we look forward to a good days racing with sporting events to compliment the racing.

 

Sister City Final and Racing again this Sunday

As expected the two Auckland finalist for the Sister City final Have A Yap and Sergio dominated their Auckland heat. Have Yap was professional as ever and claimed her heat from start to finish with Sergio making up ground late for second after losing ground early around the first bend. Unfortunately Sergio will not be taking his place in the final at Christchurch on Thursday 22nd September due to injury. Have A Yap owned by Denis Schofield and trained by his son David Schofield is the sole representative for Auckland, we wish Have A Yap and her connections all he best in the final.

Last Sunday Matanuska returned to winning form in good fashion when taking out the NZRS sprint series final for Linda and Mike Martin. Matanuska is no stranger to winning and took his total to 34 wins from 68 starts winning 50% of his career races. Litter mate Cool Idol was gallant in defeat with My Jack Attack making up good ground late for third. David Schofield produced the winning quinella in the class 4/5 527 with Benny Rox and Buttony Boy running pace maker Embezzlement down late. Ripped Jeans and Kissin Kate were victorious in the C5 318 races with Ripped Jeans capturing his first tote win in New Zealand for trainer Steve Clark. Local trainer Ben Craik managed to pick up three winners with Team Jacob, Tata Safari and Hollalicious.

Pictured: Linda Martin and Matanuska

This Sunday starts a little later at 2.46pm, but we are still finished before 6pm. Remember the World Cup rugby is screened on course. There are only two weeks to go on the $20 and $5 All Up betting competitions which have proven rather hard to score a winning payment. The $20 competition for the Large Screen TV has a $730 collect leading the way and the $5 Blu Ray DVD competition is yet to record a winning collect. Both competitions are still well worth chasing.

The $50,000 terminating Pick6 commences on race 7. This weeks Pick6 looks challenging with the class one 527 being the first leg and this field contains some promising youngsters. The Class 5 318 heats contain plenty of chances and the class 4/5 527 event is not exactly clean cut, so plenty of thought required. Pilli's Picks are updated by Sunday morning.

We look forward to seeing as many of you as possible for the racing and rugby this Sunday.

 

Sister City Heat, NZRS heats and plenty of good racing this Sunday

The Sister City heat has drawn a quality field with Sergio and Have A Yap looking to add the Sister City to their already impressive records. Sergio has certainly captured the imagination of many greyhound enthusiast with his success in winning three Group One (Waterloo Cup, NZ Cup and Spion Rose Cup) races during the 2010-2011 season. This son of Collision- Tarawai Tess has a superb race record with 18 Starts in NZ for 13 wins and $107,385 in stakes which averages out to $5,965 per start.  Have  A Yap the reigning queen of Auckland will face her toughest challenge to date when taking on Sergio this Sunday. Have A Yap has won her last twelve races at Auckland ten of these wins have been in open class and the other two wins were the Misty Anna Challenge and Auckland Oaks finals. The quality of this field does not end with these two stars, Thrilling Ransom trained by Karen Walsh will add some intrigue to this field coming off the back of his NZRS final win at Manawatu on Monday. Thrilling Ransom already a group one winner during his restricted age year will be looking for the upset win on Sunday. Although Thrilling Ransom has not raced at Auckland he has trialed on the track and has recorded times good enough to put him into contention to take out this heat. Cristalle and Nonna's Girl are both strong bitches that would take some stopping if they were to lead the field. Emblazing, Salvador Bale and Enough is Enough may find this field tough but an upset on the day could happen.   

The good racing does not stop with the Sister City heat. There are two NZRS sprint heats on the cards with the Gentle Lee litter looking to add more victories for their dam. There are also Idol Appeal and Royal Doll litter mates engaged in these heats with Matanuska, Embezzlement and Cool Idol looking to retain the series that their litter mate Bengineer won last season. Steve Clark holds a strong hand in both heats with Moody Man, Thrilling Rust and Hong Kong Louie engaged in heat one and Glow Belle Doll and Ollie Fonz engaged in heat two. The Greyhounds North Maiden Distance final looks like a contest between heat winners Kilara's Fancy and Thrilling Sprat. The Auckland Vending class one sprint final has drawn an even field with any one of the eight finalist a good winning chance. Lastly the September maiden final will see Spartacus looking to put three together.  

These are some of the best fields we have been able to assemble for a while, so with the lure of another $50,000 terminating Pick6 and the oncourse All Up competition continuing a good day looks in store.

Pictured: Litter Mates Cristalle and Sergio with Trainer Gary Harding

 

Sundays Wrap and this Thursdays $100,000 Terminating Pick6

Thrilling Brat takes out NZ Graduation and this Sundays racing

Thrilling Brat was sensational when winning the NZ Graduation series at Auckland last Sunday posting a very sharp 30.22 over the 527. The NZ Graduation series has proven to be very lucrative for the Gary Harding/Karen Walsh combination with Thrilling Brat winning the Cambridge and Manawatu series also. Mark's Pet fought on bravely for the Smith boys with Delichon Urbica rounding out the top three for Linda Martin. Karen Walsh also had success with her other two chargers with Thrilling Clover winning over the sprint and Thrilling Sprat impressed when winning her debut run over 600m. The Reel-Fishin.com class one heats were keenly contested with Snicko returning the quickest time of 18.76 which was also the best of the day. Gemz showed tremendous box speed when exiting from the seven and another swift beginning from her this Sunday could see her go close again. Big Sam's Girl and Hit Da Nos won the other two heats in good fashion.

On Sunday we will be holding a thirteen race program and have good races carded. The C0D 603 heat looks interesting with Kilara's Fancy stepping up over more ground and Thursday nights winner Ascending Force looking to secure his first distance win. Ascending Force has been runner up to a couple of handy dogs in previous heats John Deed and last weeks winner Thrilling Sprat. The Auckland Co-op Taxis sprint feature has drawn a nice field with the inform Kissin Kate leaving from the eight trap and last weeks winner Bad State has drawn nicely in the one trap. The $50,000 Terminating Pick6 commences on race eight with a rather handy class five sprint field drawn to do battle. The Magenss Benrow Stakes feature last Seasons Auckland Greyhound of the Year Have A Yap. Have A Yap has drawn poorly in the four trap but is this enough of a disadvantage for her competitor to finally get one on her. It will take a mighty effort from her challengers for her to be beaten as she has shown in the past that this is her track and only bad luck will see her beaten. We also have a nice C3 527 and a competitive C2 527 carded.

We have the All up competition on course more information can be found under the competition page. Good Luck and Good Punting.

2010-2011 Awards and this weeks racing

Last Sunday saw the presentation of the AGRC annual awards. Andrew Taylor won the Strike Rate award in his first season of training a fine effort indeed. Terry Stanley trained by Steve Clark was the sprinter of the year by virtue of some stunning sprint victories in the middle to later part of the season. Thrilling Quest was the stayer of the year after her track record performance in the Silver Collar heats and her game placing in the Collar final. MIddle distance greyhound of the year was the freakish Have A Yap and she was also voted greyhound of the year as well. What a super bitch she has turned out to be with a total domination of the 527m open class events. David Schofield was the trainer of the year.

Pictured: Denis Schofield, President Phil Green and Have A Yap	Pictured- Phil Green and Andrew Taylor
Pictured Karen Walsh and Phil Green	Pictured Craig Rendle, Kathy Wilson and Phil Green

The NZRS Graduation series heats for the C0-C2 greyhounds were held on Sunday and Hollalicious for Ben Craik produced a very game victory over Glorianna and the hotpot Thrilling Brat in the first heat. Ron O'Regan produced Surfing Al to win the second heat in good style. The final is set for 5.45pm on Sunday.

Interest in the All up betting competition is picking up with the highest win collected so far at $725.70.

The $50k terminating Pick6 is on races 9-14 this week with the extra two races programmed.

Good Luck Everyone.

Sunday wrap and this weeks news

Last Sunday Gary Sharp, the AGRC starter over recent years sent his last field away from the traps at Manukau. We thank Gary for his efforts and wish him every success in the future. I am sure he will not be a stranger to Manukau where, he will always be welcome.

Pictured- Gary Sharp farewell Stakes (President Phil Green acknowledges Gary for his contribution to the Club.)

Denis Schofield has an exceptional day last Sunday training the trifecta in the class four 527m event, the quinella in the Class four 318 and producing the wonderful race bitch Have A Yap for yet another great victory in the class five 527m. Have A Yap clocked a very good 30.26 and has developed a wonderful affinity with the Manukau circuit.

This Sunday two heats have been carded for the NZ Graduation series (C0-C2). Thrilling Brat, who has been well placed by trainer Karen Walsh is the stand out proposition in his heat and to take out the series.

We again have a $50,000 terminating Pick6 (which was shared by 37 full units last week), up for grabs. Have A Yap is in race 11 (5th leg) and looks very well placed again from box 2. The other five legs are no where near as clear cut and look to provide a good challenge for punters.

Our all up competition of $20 and $5 units continue and a collect was registered last week by Peter Fenemor ($449.20), can you top his collect.

Remember there are five member lucky draws and two second chance draws, but you must be on course to receive these prizes if your name is drawn.

Good punting everyone and hope to see you on track this Sunday.

 

Let the new Season begin

This Sunday sees the commencement of the All Up betting competition for oncourse punter's. Rules and conditions can be found under All Up competition page. This competition has been designed to suit all budgets with a $20 and $5 option available with a 42" TV and Blu Ray DVD player up for grabs.

It is very pleasing to see the TAB guarantee $50,000 (Terminating) Pick6's on Sunday meeting's throughout August. We exceeded the $50k guarantee on each of the three previous Sundays. It just shows there is strong interest in greyhound racing and with the same time slot each week, newer punters are learning the form and supporting us.

What a great little bitch Have A Yap is turning out to be. Have A Yap is completely dominating the open class middle distance scene at Auckland and looks poised to deliver again from box four on Sunday. The other five legs of the Pick6 look no where near as clear and plenty of study will be required.

The Club is appreciative of the support given from oncourse patrons and there will be members draws and second chance draws for the All Up competition over the next 10 weeks.

Good Punting everyone.

Pictured: Lois & Peter Henley with Fancy Milly

Lois Henley The Auckland Greyhound Racing Club notes with sadness the passing of Lois Henley, the Northern representative on the Greyhound Racing New Zealand Board. Lois was a tireless worker for the greyhound industry and also a fine trainer in partnership with her husband Peter. Our sincere condolences to Peter and his family at this time. Lois will be greatly missed by the greyhound fraternity. A service for Lois will be held at Cambridge Raceway on Saturday 30th July 11.30am.

 

Racing here again this Sunday

Last Sunday Beatrix Kiddo won the Group 2 NZ Sires Produce. Another highlight was Steve Clark scoring on four occasions, winning the first and last races, as well as two in between. Terry Stanley, Swift Swinger, Bella Enforcer and Glow Belle Doll look to have more wins in store for the Clark kennels.

The $50k terminating Pick6 proved very hard with only .6% of a winning ticket successful, making the declared dividend over $90k. The pool again exceeded the $50k guarantee.

This Sunday is the last of the $50k terminating Pick6's. Lets see if we can again push the pool past the guaranteed amount. It would be great to see the TAB lift the guaranteed amount on Sunday afternoons from $15k, as the support is there.

There are plenty of good races to pick a winner this Sunday. The Pick6 races (7-12) look to have a couple of anchors with Have A Yap and Bengineer standing out in their respective races. Matanuska the North Islander sprinter of the moment lines up in the Jack's Wholesale Meats sprint the last on the card and looks tough to beat, even from the squeeze box draw of four.

However as mentioned last week, there is no such thing as a certain winner in any type of racing and if these leading fancies were rolled maybe a percentage ticket will scoop the pool again.

*** PIlli's Picks are updated late Saturday or early Sunday morning. As well as his Pick6 selections there is also a best bet and longshot available***

Good Luck to everyone chasing down the gold on Sunday.

Beatrix Kiddo wins Group Two NZ Sires Produce

Beatrix Kiddo is named after the heroine from the movie Kill Bill also known as the Bride, and became a hero for local trainer Ben Craik when she won the 2011 NZ Sires Produce. Beatrix Kiddo broke in nicely at Auckland and started her career with promise, however a badly torn shoulder muscle sidelined her for six months late last year. During that time her part owners the Matamata Jokers waited patiently to see their chaser back on course and their patience has paid off nicely with Sundays win. Going into the final Ben Craik thought she was a rough chance out of the one box if she was able to make a good start. With the scratching's of pre race favourtie and multiple group winner Thrilling Ransom, Catch A Pennie and Catch A Punta the odds of her winning increased. Blue Jean Alice set a good pace with Beatrix Kiddo and Thrilling Boss keeping within a couple lengths of the leader. Turning for home a race to the post was on with Thrilling Boss and Beatrix Kiddo pushing each other hard to the winning line. Beatrix Kiddo was able to get a length clear of Thrilling Boss with the fast finishing Canty visitor Know Which securing third in front of the pace making Blue Jean Alice. Beatrix Kiddo provided trainer Ben Craik with back to back NZ Sires Produce wins with Hailey's Agent winning last season.

Pictured:Beatrix Kiddo

Pictured: Ben Craik Beatrix Kiddo and Tracey Craik

Racing 24th July and wrap from last Sunday

This Sunday sees the second of the $50,000 terminating Pick6's. Last week the pool rose to over $54k which was outstanding. It was a real shame that there was a lure malfunction during the third leg of last Sunday's Pick6, which saw all tickets that were live run through to leg four.

It was even more unfortunate for Phil Green whose two kennel runners, John Deed and Machin Shin were going to fight the finish out. Phil was compensated shortly after when the highly promising young bitch Indeed Unique blitzed her rivals in the C1 527, she looks an outstanding chance in leg five this week, even allowing for her rise to a C2/3 combined 527m field.

We have not had a lure malfunction for some years at Manukau, but it was bad timing for all concerned.

Pictured: Indeed Unique

This Sunday there is five middle distance races, three of them in Pick6 events. The New Zealand Sires Stakes is headed by Thrilling Ransom who has been in great form. There does look to be some sound chances in some of the legs, but how often do we get caught by going narrow in these legs. Looking forward to Sunday's meeting and let's push the pool past $50,000k again.

At the end of the terminating $50k (next week is the completion), we will be running a $20 and $5 All Up betting competition for 10 weeks with a 42" Plasma TV up for grabs in the $20 one and a Bluray player for the $5 competition. Terms and Conditions are on All Up Competition and Competition page. We plan to have a couple of free draws for this competition (second chance will be one) and look forward to your support!

Ron O'Regan gets a Hat-Trick

Last Sunday Ron O'Regan trained three winners. Cha Cha Chainsaw opened the race meeting with a much deserved win. Cha Cha Chainsaw fell on debut back in April, since then he has managed to climb the grades at a good pace and looks to have a bright future.  Ron mentioned Cha Cha Chainsaw as being a nice dog to train, very good kennel dog. Ron sees potential in Cha Cha Chainsaw provided he stays sound and gets his times down a little more. Excusable won the Brownzy Sports Bar Sprint taking full advantage of the ace trap. Ron said Excusable has ability and has been with him for a few months.In that time she has only raced on three occasions and been scratched on a couple other occasions due to ongoing metacarpal issues. The O'Regan team were delighted with her win. Excusble lines up over middle distance this Sunday. Lastly Lachlan Valley closed the meeting with a convincing win in the Jack's Wholesale Meats Sprint. Ron wasn't surprised with this win as Lachlan Valley had good form going into the race. It has to be mentioned that Ron has great support from his family with his daughter Noami helping on race day while his wife Kiri and eldest daughter Kirsty takes care of the dogs at home.

Pictured: Excusable with Ron and Noami O'Regan

$50,000 Terminating Pick6

For the next three Sundays we have a $50,000 terminating Pick6. Last week the Pick6 reached nearly $34,000 on a $25,000 guarantee and was struck by only .5 of a unit and accordingly paid nearly $68,000. Some of our oncourse punters had small shares in this and will be here this week looking for another good result.

Steve Clark produced two first starters Bella Enforcer and Collision Risk, both won their respective heats well and will be tough to beat in their finals. Collision Risk will be one of the favourites in the Reel-Fishin.com sprint final at 2.56pm and Bella Enforcer will look to make it two from two in the July Maiden series final at 3.13pm.

Mike and Maxine Lozell won with Bit of Vision and Captain Carlos who took full advantage of his box one draw. Emblazing returned to winning form in style nabbing his kennel mate Kilara's Fancy on the line getting up by a head and no doubt up setting some of the Pick6 punters as he was 3/5 in the market compared to Kilara's Fancy 2/1 market share.

Due to insufficient nominations the New Zealand sires heats have not been carded. The final of the New Zealand sires will take place next Sunday 24th July- the final field not in box order can be found under the fields section on this website.

Congratulations to Steve Clark and Kathy Wilson who prepared champion stayer Swift Fantasy to take out the Buy Sell NZ Stayers Cup at Addington last week. Steve also saluted the Judge with his super sprinter Terry Stanley who you can see live this Sunday at Auckland.

Pictured: Swift Fantasy

 

Have A Yap and Matanuska dominate finals.

Have A Yap has dominated the Misty Anna Trophy Series and won the final with ease on Sunday running 30.51. Blue Jean Alice ran a brave second with Missing Melody in third. Have A Yap is owned and trained by Denis Schofield and commenced racing in New Zealand in October 2010. Since then Have A Yap has gone on to win twenty of her thirty six race starts with earning's of $42,232 not bad considering Denis said he got her for a good price, almost the same as the freight to bring her to NZ. Have A Yap is a well related bitch with litter mates winning in both NZ and Australia and will make a valuable broodbitch to the Schofield camp when she eventually retires from racing. Until then Denis has no immediate plans to travel her and will take each week as they come with the intention of having her ready for the Waterloo Cup in October.

 

Pictured: Have A Yap

While speaking to Denis it was interesting to learn that Onie's Lad had a near fatal injury last November sustained during a trial at Addington. Onie's Lad broke his shoulder and the trip back to Auckland was a painful one for him and his travel companions. However Denis always had a lot of time for this fella and thought if he can't be saved to race he can be saved to be sent to GAP. The Schofield kennels are big supporters of the Greyhound Adoption Programme. But Onie's Lad still had racing on his mind and with determination he won his first race back from injury on Sunday after a seven month spell. A great result for the Schofield team considering he had not been to a trial track or race track since November. Kilara's Fancy also won for Denis Schofield rounding out a good day for the kennels.

The other highlight on the card was the Auckland Co-op Taxis final. This race did not disappoint with Matanuska and Terry Stanley both jumping from boxes three and four. Once Matanuska had the clear lead he was never in danger holding out Terry Stanley by 1tl running 18.43. Mike and Linda Martin race a small team and are getting some great results from Matanuska, Bengineer and Delichon Urbica. Linda Martin is currently in second place on the national strike rate board.

Hong Kong Louie returned to winning form for Steve Clark, Cherry Tree Lane took out the maiden race for Ben Craik. Rhoda Holmes continues to go well for Brent Littlejohn. Big Lass stormed home late to win for Alan Cleaver. Bad State delivered in style for the Smith team. John Deed impressed in the 603 heat for Phil Green.Dossie notched up another win for Carol Derecourt and visiting trainers Paul Freeman/Angeal Turnwald won well with Stiff.

We race again next Sunday with fields available Tuesday afternoon.

Denis Schofield picks up 4 winners and Finalist decided for Auckland Co-op Taxis Series Final

Sunday's racing produced stunning results for Denis Schofield's kennels. Punk Scooter, Go To Crow, Lochinvar Yassi and Have A Yap won nicely for the Rangiriri based team. Have a Yap kept her good record in tact and has won her last six races at Auckland five on end. Have a Yap will be tough to beat in the Misty Anna Series final which concludes this Sunday. Matanuska and Terry Stanley were both impressive when taking out their heats of the Auckland Co-op taxis sprint series. These two top dogs will be battling it out this Sunday in the final, box draw to be completed on Tuesday afternoon. Matanuska won this years 2011 Auckland Co-op Taxis railway for longtime greyhound enthusiasts Mike and Linda Martin. Linda is having a great run which included four starts between Cambridge and Auckland last week for four wins. Matanuska is a determined chaser and can win from any position in the field he will be tough to beat. If anyone is to beat Matanuska it would have to be Auckland specialist Terry Stanley who was one of the more favoured greyhounds to win the 2011 Railway. Unfortunatly injury during the heats would see him miss out on qualifying for the final. Since then trainer Steve Clark has done a fantastic job in returning Terry Stanley back to the races for nine wins from eleven race day apperances. Terry Stanley ran the quickest heat when exploding from the two trap and a repeat performance will see him victorious.

During the month of July we will have a terminating $25,000 pick6 at each Sunday meeting. The pick6 is a favourite for the oncourse punters and tips are updated on Pilli's Picks before each meeting.

Pictured: Matanuska winning the Auckland Co-op Taxis Railway 2011

Sunday 19.06.11

We return to normal racing this Sunday with a slight bonus in the Pick6 pool. A good variety of fields have been assembled with three class one 318 Reel-Fishin.com heats on the card. There is also a maiden 318 final, maiden 527 feature and class one 527 final. Lochinvar Yassi looks the goods in the maiden 527 feature after a nice first up second behind the up and coming Indeed Unique. Indeed Unique features in the Thornton Auctions class one final and will be trying for three successive wins after her mid week win at Cambridge. Have A Yap will certainly draw attention from box one in race 10 The Magness Benrow Stakes at 5.37pm. Have A Yap is in fine form and will be tough to beat on her favourite track. The dangers could come from the likes of John Deed and Core Power who have run good times in the past. Race 11 The Jack's Wholesale Meats sprint will see Terry Stanley leaving from the awkward draw of box 5 and last week's winner Cool Idol out of the 7  this is an even affair and will be decided at 5.57pm.

Last Sunday Ben Craik trained three winners with Expenditure, Elephunk and Cool Idol leading their fields home. Nina's Girl ran a fantastic 779m to be crowned 2011 TV3 Hounds Duke of Edinburgh Silver Collar winner and Phil Green and David Schofield produced two winner's each to make it a great day's racing.

We had a small problem getting the video replays from Sunday available this week, we needed more grunt in our internet supply. This has been quickly rectified and the races are available for your viewing. We don't forsee any other issues and should have this Sunday's races available Monday afternoon.

Good Punting and remember Pilli's Picks are updated on Saturday/Sunday for Sunday's racing.

 

Nina's Girl wins this years TV3 Hounds Duke of Edinburgh Silver Collar Final

This years TV3 Hounds Duke of Edinburgh Silver Collar final was won by Nina's Girl who went to the boxes 8/7 in the market. The odds were generous when you consider the fact that Nina's Girl had previously lined up over distance four times returning two wins and two placing's. Nina's Girl is part owned by her breeder Ray Amer with P Bridgford and is out of Big Daddy Cool- Funny Girl. This was a family affair for Ray Amer and Dave and Jean Fahey as they trained Funny Girl for owner Ray. Funny Girl herself earned an impressive $50,000 while racing and was a proven stayer winning five over distance and placing on another eighteen occasions. As many a breeder will tell you there is no higher feeling then seeing your progeny win at Group one level. Dave and Jean Fahey were on a much deserved family holiday in Australia when Nina's Girl won. Their holiday was scheduled for after the Silver Collar Final but an error in the TAB diary saw their dates clash. Dave worked his team and was happy with their preparation when he left for Australia on Wednesday, he would like to thank John Holdem for taking care of his team while they were away and said " They were cheering for Nina's Girl " from across the Tasman. Nina's Girl will be aimed at the NZ Stayer's Cup in Addington at the end of this month.This was the second Silver Collar win for Dave and Jean Fahey who had previously won with Winsome Dosh in 2008. The win must have been bitter sweet for Dave and Jean as injury prevented their super stayer Dangle The Carat from being part of this series. Dangle The Carat looked the likely favourite for the Silver Collar series but as fate would have it she injured herself back in February after an unbeaten eleven starts over distance. Every time Dangle The Carat lined up she broke hearts and records and won by margins of up to 17 Lengths, she really had that X-Factor that only few dogs have. Dave reports that Dangle The Carat has recovered nicely from her hock injury and is in pup to Big Daddy Cool. Early scans are showing that she has a belly full. Dave and Jean are still hopeful of getting her back to the races and if anyone can do it they can. Awesome Bender has recovered nicely from his injury and will look to be lined up in the NZ Stayers Cup at Addington at the end of the month. Dave and Jean lost a couple of their top chances going into this series yet they were still able to come away victorious. It shows the character and depth in their team that no matter what they are always ready to compete at any level. 

Very game in defeat was last years winner Swift Fantasy who was held up at a crucial time down the back straight and flew home late to miss by 3/4 of a length. Favourite Thrilling Quest fought on bravely for third after setting the pace and looks to have a very bright staying future.

Pictured: Nina's Girl with handler Barbara Craik and a couple of the Hounds representatives

Pictured: Dangle The Carat