Sunderland Puppy Cup and British Bred Update & Final Draws

Chris Fereday's No Better Feelin emerged as the fastest of the two Puppy Cup semi-final winners at Sunderland on Friday evening. He secured a decisive victory, finishing 3 1/2 lengths ahead with a time of 26.76 (+20). Despite being the favourite at even money, Tom Heilbron's Untold Ruble had to settle for second place, while Newinn Souly, trained by Kim Billingham, claimed the third qualifying spot. In positive news, Phil Milner reported that Keefill Rocky, who took a tumble at the first bend, appears only slightly stiff and not seriously injured.

Phil Milner's Keefill Maverick overcame early crowding to win the second semi-final comfortably by 2 1/4 lengths in a time of 26.99 (+20). Droopys Extragud delivered an eye-catching performance to finish second, just 2 1/4 lengths behind, for trainer Heather Dimmock. Slingshot Ali secured the third qualifying spot for next week’s £7,500 final (£500 for others). The final draw for the Puppy Cup is listed below.

The Harry Williams – Blue Artisan British Bred competition also kicked off at Sunderland last night, with just 22 spots separating the three heat winners. Kevin Ferguson’s Acomb Irene won the opening heat in 26.94, while her litter brother, Acomb Johnny, triumphed in the second heat with the fastest time of 26.87. Stuart Ray’s Blackhouse Alan captured the final heat in 27.09. Qualifying for next week’s £1,500 final (draw below) from second-place finishes were Witton Margaret (Jill Sutherst), Romeo Cypher (David Mullins), and The Bulldog (Paul Lithgow) from heats one, two, and three, respectively.

Puppy Cup Final Draw

1. No Better Feelin
2. Untold Ruble
3. Newinn Souly
4. Keefill Maverick
5. Droopys Extragud
6. Slingshot Ali

British Bred Final Draw

1. Acomb Irene
2. Witton Margaret
3. Acomb Johnny
4. Romeo Cypher
5. Blackhouse Alan
6. The Bulldog