Turner Chasing Big Time Success
7 June, 2018
Greyhound
As a relatively new member to greyhound racing Morgan Turner would love nothing better than to land a major feature race win.
The Nambeelup trainer gets that opportunity when his consistent chaser Bundles Galore contests the Winter Cup (520m) final at Cannington on Saturday.
Up against high profile trainers and their kennels, the $30,000 feature race looms as a major test for Turner, but it’s an experience and challenge that he is relishing.
Headlining a strong cast of chasers in the Winter Cup is David Hobby and his three representatives: Trouper Monelli, Skyther Monelli and Frida Monelli.
Trouper Monelli will jump from the coveted red box, the same starting position that saw him winning the Group 1 Perth Cup.
Paul Stuart, a dual Winter Cup winner with Pedrosa (2010-2011), will pin his faith in Decimal, who returned to winning form in last week’s heat.
West On Augie and Vanderworp, going for six straight wins, will carry the hopes for Chris Halse, who has a strong connection to the race.
Halse’s partner Linda Britton holds the Winter Cup training record with seven wins: Stolen Words (1995), Billy Cruise (1997), Honcho’s Bid (2000-2001), Mr Marboc (2002), Tuqiri (2006) and Eye Murunna (2008).
West On Augie and Vanderworp will jump from box six and seven respectively. Bundles Galore, who has missed a top three finish just four times from 35 starts, has drawn on their outside in eight.
Morgan said he is full of admiration for Bundles Galore, who has bravely fought back after a serious leg injury.
“He broke his hock about three months ago and had a screw put in his leg,” Morgan said.
“He has had three starts back since the setback and is going along well.
“I would have preferred an inside box, but that’s what we seem to draw,” Turner said.
“It’s nice to be in a big final and get reward for the hard work you put in.
“This greyhound hasn’t missed a placing in his last 23 starts, so hopefully that can continue.
“I’m hoping for box six and seven to get out well and two (Skyther Monelli) to run into trouble so we can get up on the inside.
“That is going to be the plan anyway.
“He will be the last out, but is one of the stronger dogs in the race.
“I think he will finish in the top four.”
Julio Santarelli