Last night was one to remember for young trainer Dermott Prout as Sandy Monelli captured the pair’s maiden city win.
Sandy Monelli began well from box 1 and generated a two length break down the back straight. Louie Neveelk threatened late but was unsuccessful as Sandy Monelli held on to win by a length in 29.70.
“I’m really proud of her – I wasn’t sure if she’d run out the 515m as she’s never been over more than 440m. We thought she’s in the best form she’s been in so why not have a crack,” said 22-year-old Prout.
“Ever since Christmas she’s been in great form – we haven’t changed anything she’s just found improvement within herself.”
Prout’s family has been involved in greyhounds for many years but it’s a hobby that he has only recently taken up.
“She’s (Sandy Monelli) is the first dog I’ve ever trained myself – dad and his uncle have been involved over the years. Due to taking me everywhere to play sport dad wasn’t able to spend as much time with the dogs while I was growing up. Once I gave up my sporting commitments and started working I was able to buy some dogs.”
Owner of Sandy Monelli, Alan Wright, is wheelchair stricken as he suffers from muscular dystrophy. He purchased the greyhound for a relatively small sum – a bargain buy as Sandy Monelli has now won $33,110.
“After her first few runs at Ballarat he bought her for $3000 – that’s proving to be a very good buy.”
Prout is uncertain of Sandy Monelli’s next assignment though does have his eyes on a series at his home track.
“I’m not too sure where we’ll take her next – there was a series at Sale we had our eyes on but I’ll have to speak with the team.”
The night was the first of a winter long trial of Sandown Park racing one hour earlier.
During the trial period, the first race will commence at just after 6pm with the final race to jump prior to 10pm.
The change has been made with participant welfare in mind, helping them avoid peak hour traffic on their way to the track, and getting them home an hour earlier during the coldest time of the year.
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Sandy Monelli claims her first city win
