Mullany Combines Business & Pleasure In Darwin
3 August, 2018
Greyhound
Perth greyhound trainer Tim Mullany has combined business with pleasure in Darwin.
The pleasure has come first, fishing occupying his leisure time in Australia’s only tropical capital city.
But on Sunday his focus turns to more serious matter when he attempts to pry the Group 3 Darwin Cup (537m).
Mullany is no stranger to the Darwin Cup, competing twice previously, but he genuinely believes it could be a case of third time lucky.
Mullany says Stanga Bolt, a gallant runner-up in last week’s heats, is not without claims in a wide open race.
“If I was a bookmaker framing a market it will be $5 dollars the field,” Mullany said.
“The box draws hasn’t really helped anyone and it will be an even line to the first turn.
“Stanga Bolt will need a few things to go his way, but he is not without claims.
“I’m hoping he can get to the fence and sit second or third off the pace.
“His run in the heat was huge and he was stiff not to win.
“I’m hoping he can get to the fence and have a late crack at them.”
Stanga Bolt is one of three Western Australian chasers in the Darwin Cup with the James Jeffries-trained Confinement and Pride Of Charlie in the line-up.
Stanga Bolt, who has won seven races and been placed 12 times from 32 starts, has drawn box two.
Confinement and Pride Of Charlie will jump from box three and five respectively.
Mullany says Weeona Jimmy, the fastest heat qualifier and Joyce Rumble, look to be the biggest threats to Stanga Bolt.
“They will probably start favourites,” Mullany said.
“Weeona Jimmy was very impressive in the heat.
“If he repeats the run he will be hard to beat.”
Mullany said winning a Darwin Cup would be a notable achievement.
“This race has grown in profile and stature,” Mullany said.
“It’s getting bigger and bigger each year.
“In the beginning they were battling to get on Sky.
“Now there are 12 race cards and they run on Wednesday’s.”
Julio Santarelli