Owner/breeder Casie O’Neil registered a unique double last night when littermates Light ‘Em Up and Timmy Trumpet scored impressive victories on each side of the Tasman Sea.
Trained by three time Melbourne Cup winning trainer Jason Thompson, Light ‘Em Up began well from box four and showcased great courage when pushing through the pack settle in the lead. Holding off a late charge by Simply Elite, Light ‘Em Up registered a 1½ length win in 29.71 on his Sandown Park debut.
“He went really well, I was very impressed,” said O’Neil.
Breaking his maiden status at his fourth start, Light ‘Em Up has now won four consecutive races indicating there are plenty more ahead of him.
“I hope he can continue this type of form, it would be nice!
“I’m not sure what the future plans are, I let Jason do his thing and he lets me know when they’re running.”
The win continued a fine run from the resurgent Jason Thompson, who reduced his greyhound racing commitment while his son Ben established himself as one of the state’s leading apprentice jockeys. It was Thompson’s third win in two days having claimed a winning double at The Meadows on Wednesday.
Earlier in the day in New Zealand, Timmy Trumpet broke his maiden status with a convincing 10½ length win in best of night time.
“Timmy Trumpet scorched around Waikato, which was really good to see. “Jason sent him over to New Zealand – they thought the racing conditions there suited him better than here in Australia – and it’s obviously paid off.”
“It’s a great thrill to have greyhounds I bred win on the same day in two different countries.”
The mother of both greyhounds, Peggy May, was also bred by O’Neil and trained by Thompson, and won almost $200,000 from her 57 start career which included the 2012 Group 1 Sapphire Crown.
“I’m picky on who trains my greyhounds, and they’re in great hands with the Thompsons.”
Light ‘Em Up claims race 10 in 29.71