Despite battling heavy rain and a mid-meeting delay, the M Lambe Construction Birmingham Cup heats at Perry Barr saw some incredible performances on Saturday. BOCKOS THUNDER took full advantage of the conditions to clock the fastest time, overcoming tough competition in the first heat. Although Cunnigar Yousir initially led, Kevin Boon’s English Derby quarter-finalist surged ahead to win by half a length in 28.14 seconds, securing his place in the semi-finals along with Rioja Bungle, who finished third.
The weather worsened as Aghaburren Beau claimed victory in the second heat. Brian Thompson’s contender led from the front, eventually finishing a length and a quarter ahead of his trackmate, Seaview Sydney, in 28.66 seconds, continuing Monmore’s winning streak at Perry Barr.
Nathan Hunt, who had seen his runners finish second in the first two heats, found success in the third heat with Untold Paanga. Coming from behind, Untold Paanga caught longtime leader Unanimous Leon and snatched the win by three-quarters of a length, with English Derby third-place finisher Whyaye Man close behind in 28.40 seconds.
The fourth heat brought disappointment for ante-post favourite Links Maverick, whose race was compromised by early crowding. Instead, Long Fellow, trained by Matt Dartnall, edged out Ballycleary Ten after a tight battle, winning by a neck in 28.77 seconds.
In heat five, John Mullins’ Aayamza Sydney powered through the rain-soaked track to snatch a thrilling neck victory from Aero Pattika and Tricky Wiggles in 28.44 seconds. The night’s final heat went to Darley Diglake, whose dominant outside run gave local fans something to cheer about. He finished a length ahead of Droopys Extragud in 28.40 seconds.
Perry Barr racing manager, Martin Seal, praised the track staff for ensuring the races were completed despite the delays. He also acknowledged the patience of owners, trainers, and racegoers, saying he was pleased that the event could go on despite the challenging weather. Seal highlighted standout performances from dogs like Rioja Bungle, Untold Paanga, Whyaye Man, Tricky Wiggles, and Droopys Extragud as they move forward to the semi-finals. He expressed optimism that the worst of the weather was behind them as they look ahead to the next round of races.