After just a year in greyhound training, Melissa Arandale is gearing up for her first Group-level final with Teresita, a standout contender in the Group 3 Casino Cup (484m) next Friday night. Melissa’s journey to this milestone reflects a mix of talent, strategy, and a bold last-minute decision.
Teresita, a daughter of Pindari Express and Tribal Magic, impressed in Thursday’s heats by leading from start to finish, securing a commanding victory in 27.37 seconds, four lengths ahead of Gypsy Joker, a notable runner from Robert Cooke’s kennel. Her draw for the final in box two further bolsters her chances.
A Game-Changing Trial
Melissa revealed that a remarkable trial performance last week led her to pivot Teresita’s path from a 5th Grade event to the Cup heats. Clocking an exceptional 27.16 at Casino, the trial solidified their confidence in her potential. Melissa mentioned how Teresita had turned a corner since her seasonal break in August, saying she had returned to training with renewed vigour and determination.
Teresita’s confidence, once a concern, began to grow after a breakthrough win in a fourth-grade race at Grafton several runs ago. “That victory was a turning point for her, and she hasn’t looked back,” Melissa explained, expressing her excitement about reaching the Cup final.
Future Plans Beyond the Final
While the Casino Cup final is the immediate focus, Melissa and her husband Mark, who serves as the on-course racecaller, have long-term plans for Teresita. After competing in a 450-metrere event at Grafton, they intend to send her north for an Albion Park campaign under a new trainer, citing their demanding schedules as a reason to delegate her future races.
The Competition Heats Up
The Casino Cup final promises a thrilling contest with some of Northern Rivers’ finest greyhounds. Craig Gardoll’s Spirit Boy secured favouritism with a blistering 27.15 heat performance, while Darren Russell’s Hilde clocked 27.31 to outpace Party Mode.
Casino Cup Box Draw:
1. Hilde
2. Teresita
3. Party Mode
4. Kingsbrae Nola
5. Spirit Boy
6. Maxine Dutton
7. Gypsy Joker
8. Kingsbrae Wendy
Reserves: 9. Bootin’ Boodie, 10. Masani Girl
As Melissa and Teresita prepare for the biggest race of their careers, the Casino Cup final promises a night of high-stakes drama and unforgettable moments.