43 for Golden Sprint
The Romford racing office faced the challenging task of disappointing connections as the £10,000 Coral Golden Sprint proved oversubscribed, with 43 entries.
Racing Manager Mark Arkell explained, “There were a few tough decisions with several left out that you could make a case for. There is also an imbalance in the seeding which isn’t ideal, with 20 railers, 12 middles, and just 4 wide seeds.”
Defending champion trainer Patrick Janssens, who triumphed last year with Droopys Good, is set to field a formidable team led by Druids Say Go and Yahoo Megan. David Mullins will present litter brothers Romeo Crusade (Puppy Cup) and Romeo Cypher (British Bred Puppy Derby). Another highlight will be the return of the 2023 Irish Oaks winner, Crafty Shivoo.
Clue and Memphis feature at Hove
As awards weekend approaches, Hove has arranged a top-class card featuring some of the most prominent names in greyhound racing.
Greyhound of the Year contender Droopys Clue is making his reappearance in a high-quality event alongside Olympic third-place finisher King Combs. Additionally, Olympic winner and joint ante-post Derby favourite King Memphis is set to contest his first race of the year, facing off against Steel City Cup winner Swift Iconic. Grand National winner Coppice Fox will participate in the Cearns Memorial, and Produce Stakes winner Queen Joni makes her first appearance since winning the British Bred Derby at Sheffield.
On the downside, considering the prize money at stake and the quality of the venue, it is somewhat disappointing that only nine of the opens were filled, with six vacant traps and no stayer's race.