Matt first went racing in February 1982 at just 3 months old. Attracted to the sport by Desert Orchid in the late 80's, a media degree started a path to horse racing journalism. Owner of many horses and greyhounds through the years, the latter has led to the formation of the myracing greyhound syndicate, a Greyhound Writers Association membership as well as appearances on Racing Post Greyhound TV.
It’s Sunday afternoon, so that can only mean one thing – it’s Droopys Hyde day at Henlow! Our greyhound tips will be live before 6.00pm tonight, but before then we have the Hyde stepping up in trip to try the 550m distance for the first time. Let’s break down the task he has in front of him.
4.07pm Henlow 25/03/2018 S3 Grade
Monroe Twirl – A regular in this grade, the veteran has not been close to his best for the majority of 2018. He is a four time winner at this level, dipping under the 34 second barrier regularly at that time. Regressing these days, he needs to lead up to have his best chance.
Shes Lucky – Just 3/26 in level start races (2/2 in handicaps) she has her quirks. 0/7 at Henlow, she has produced runs that suggest she is capable of making her presence felt at this level, but she tends to give herself lots to do from the back.
Droopys Hyde – Not an ideal draw for Hyde this afternoon, but equally not the deepest S3 either. He has form in the book over the 460m trip that would make him the one to beat over that trip. Shapes as if he is worth a try at this trip, fascinating to see how he gets on.
Kanes Dynasty – No surprise to see this pup a short priced favourite, he shapes as if it is only a matter of time before he gets his head in front over 550m. He wouldn’t be as quick as Hyde over 460 but he rockets home at that trip, clocking some smart efforts already at this test.
Rackethall Vic – The other A4 hound over the 460m trip here (along with Hyde) he has a smart 27.88 on his card last month. Has been fighting an uphill battle at this trip with his slow starts, but his times mean he should be competitive at this level once more.
Lo Co Ladd – Not a regular winner, he has been a well beaten outsider in this grade of late. Is going to need plenty to fall perfectly for him if he is to trouble those at the head of the market.
Conclusion
Not the toughest S3 to start Hyde off in, though he does meet a decent looking pup in the 4. No surprise to see that rival at the head of the market, as he is unquestionably the one to beat. Both Hyde and the 5 lead this field on their 460m efforts so both need plenty of respect for those wanting to play the forecasts and tricasts , this is a fact finding mission with Hyde, so whatever he does will mould where he heads next.