Garfiney Blaze Shines Bright in George Curtis & Ballyregan Bob Memorial Heats
Hove Racing Manager Rob Abrey lauded Mark Wallis’s training prowess after Garfiney Blaze made a spectacular comeback in the first heat of the George Curtis & Ballyregan Bob Memorial on Saturday. The event shares the spotlight with the Coral Olympic heats, forming an exciting double-header at Hove this weekend.
Returning to action after a four-month hiatus, the Arc Cesarewitch champion clocked the fastest time across the six heats. Breaking swiftly, the September 2021 son of Ballymac Anton secured a one-length victory over Alright Gordy, finishing in an impressive 44.49 seconds (+15).
Abrey highlighted Wallis's experience, noting, “He’s not a 14-time champion trainer for nothing!” said Abrey after the September 21 son of Ballymac Anton made a successful comeback after some four months on the sidelines, breaking smartly in the opening qualifier before coming home a length clear of Alright Gordy (David Lewis) in 44.49sec (+15).
Garfiney Blaze’s triumphant return set the stage for a competitive Memorial series. Abrey remarked on the quality of other heat winners, including Move Over Ogie, Droopys Flotilla, and Beach Babe, cautioning that the competition is heating up.
Beach Babe delivered a standout performance in the final heat, dominating from start to finish. The Tom Levers-trained marathon specialist claimed a near three-length victory over Coffee Time Guys in 44.79 seconds. Droopys Flotilla, trained by Nathan Hunt, also impressed in heat five, taking control early and holding off Ower Smasher to win by two and a half lengths in 44.92 seconds.
Patrick Janssens continued his kennel’s success with Breton Molly, who narrowly edged out St Leger finalist Tuono Bella in a thrilling head-to-head battle to win heat two by three-quarters of a length in 45.01 seconds.
In an unexpected yet well-earned victory, Minstrels Six, a 16-1 outsider, claimed heat three with a sharp start that led to a two-and-a-quarter length win over Alright Patricia in 45.17 seconds. Meanwhile, Matt Dartnall’s Move Over Ogie overcame a quick start from Hopiehopiehopie, ultimately pulling away for a three-and-three-quarter length success in 44.94 seconds.
Abrey expressed satisfaction with the inclusivity of the competition, allowing all 30 entries to compete rather than narrowing the field. He emphasized fairness as a cornerstone of Hove’s ethos, ensuring every participant had a chance to shine.
With the semi-finals approaching this Saturday, the competition is intensifying, promising thrilling action as the George Curtis & Ballyregan Bob Memorial continues to captivate greyhound racing fans.