*Photograph; Tom Micks
The Peter Duggan Sweepstake gets under way at the Galway Track on this Friday night September 6th, known as the Construction Man’s Stake Its for A3 greyhounds over the 525 yds distance.
By Michael Maher
Four quarter finals are down for decision on this Friday night with a big entry of Clare dogs that will be hoping to make the semi-final on next Friday night September 13th. The final is pencilled in for Friday night September 20th and prize money of €1,500 to the winner.
Double All-Ireland winner Peter Duggan has strong connection with greyhounds with his family having a long involvement in the sport. This stake is sponsored by O’Sullivan & Hansbury Motors, Kilrush Road, Ennis. The event is organised by W.G.O.B.A where more than half of their membership is from Clare. All funds raised will go to the West Clare Cancer Centre.
The A3 graded seventh contest over 550 yards was the top graded contest on last Friday night’s card at the College Road Venue. John Croker recorded back to back victories and the second win also of Bumblebee Lottie’s career in this A6 graded contest racing home four and a half lengths clear of Uphill Climb in 29.68. Bumblebee Lottie was best away from the trap one berth but rounding the opening bend the eventual winner swept through on the leaders inside to assume command of the contest entering the back straight. Racing along the back the Stephen Murray of Sixmilebridge trained daughter of Doratos Wildcat and Crokers Ruby led Jacktavern Blue and Uphill Climb by over three lengths and tracking well between the final two bends Crokers Primrose was in full bloom up the straight for a stylish success.
The Darren Cooney of Broadford owned Donal Cooney trained Melbourne Flyer was another winner on the night to make all the running as the son of Good News and White Queen made all the running to defeat Lissatouk Suzy by five lengths at the line in 29.40. Smartly into stride from his trap five berth Melbourne Flyer showed plenty of pace on the run towards the opening bend to lead from Rylane Master and Lissatouk Suzy and with trouble among the chasers at the opening bend the winner kicked clear down the far side. Clear passing the halfway mark Melbourne Flyer was always in control as he ran out a very comfortable winner.
