NEW DESTINY triumphed over Aayamza Sydney in a thrilling battle during the semi-finals of the Premier Greyhound Racing Champion Stakes at Romford. Both greyhounds secured their spots in the upcoming £20,000 grand final, promising a highly anticipated showdown.
In the second semi-final, Aayamza Sydney, trained by John Mullins, took an early lead with an impressive 13.48-second sectional, positioning himself as the favourite. As the runner-up of the Essex Vase, he seemed destined for victory. However, New Destiny remained persistent, closely trailing throughout the 575m race. In a dramatic finish, Mark Wallis's Coronation Cup winner surged forward to claim the win by a head, crossing the line in 35.18 seconds. The race was an exhilarating preview of the excitement to come in the final.
The first semi-final saw Seamus Cahill's Noirs News lead from start to finish, defeating favourite Syds Smurph, trained by Savva Roberts. Noirs News secured a comfortable three-and-a-half-length victory over Golden Palace, clocking in at 35.30 seconds.
In the third semi-final, Belinda Green’s Gary The Arb delivered a strong performance. Initially trailing fast-starter Nowitsmyturn, trained by Richard Rees, Gary The Arb powered through halfway to claim a dominant four-and-a-quarter-length victory, finishing in 35.37 seconds.
Friday's card also featured the Coral Silver Standard semi-finals, where David Mullins’ Brindle Bully stole the show. He dominated the third semi-final, taking an early lead and finishing seven lengths ahead of Cunnigar Yousir in a blazing 23.61 seconds over the 400m course.
Michelle Brown’s Pro Parker (24.03 sec) and Maxine Locke’s Droopys Bucko (24.14 sec) also claimed victories in their respective semi-finals, securing spots in the £5,000 final, which will serve as the main support race for the Premier Greyhound Racing Champion Stakes.
With these electrifying semi-finals, both finals are set to deliver top-notch racing action this week.