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 a long wait for the final race on Thursday’s card at Crayford for Meenagh Mourinho, but as the myracing greyhound syndicate approach the anniversary of their first runner this weekend, Jose looks to get the celebration started early. Our greyhound tips will be from Hove and Monmore tonight, coming up straight after Jose.
6.09pm Crayford 07/06/2018 A2 Grade
Fawkham Chaser – Won in this grade back in February but it’s been harder work since for the youngster. He had to drop to A3 to get his head back in front and with plenty of these capable of better than he has shown so far, he’s going to need a large slice of luck.
Monagea Sam – Doesn’t have the instantaneous early that hounds need in the higher grades at Crayford, 0/6 at this level as a result. Has gone as quick as 23.43 when things have gone his way so is certainly no mug, but the percentage call is to oppose when this high.
Ballymac Quality – The first of three runners in this A2 affair for Kelva, she has found trouble in her races so far, but showing more than enough despite that to think that she’s capable at this level. Still a pup, she has plenty to learn but the ability is there with a clear run.
Kid Cowboy – Has been performing over 6 bends of late, mid April the last time he was seen over this trip. He picked up a two round competition over further last month so he has plenty of class, but he may lack the early gears to get involved early on which makes things trickier.
Slaney Topgear – The second of the Kelva opponents for Jose has been in smart form, winning three of his last five. They were at a lower level than this, just 1/10 when running in an A2. Certainly has the times in the book though – if he times his break – to contend.
Meenagh Mourinho – More suitable conditions for Jose tonight than of late, with the striped jacket on his back. He should have little trouble controlling the outside and with one of his normal breaks looks likely to get round and away. He then needs to hold off the closers late on.
Conclusion
A trappy looking A2 affair, but not a huge amount of regular early pace bar Jose. He looks a good bet to hit the first corner in front which is always the first half of the battle at Crayford. There are some smart hounds who will be chasing him down, the 4 an open competition winner over 6 bends as well as a pair of smart kennelmates of Joses at Kelva.