Britton’s duo to kick off Speed Star


Lithgow Panther and Rippin Hayne will trial at Sandown Park tomorrow in the first of three Speed Star trial sessions.

The Rob Britton trained duo will attempt to climb their way up the leader board currently headed by Zambora Brockie – 29.140.

Although being regarded as one of the country’s premier stayers throughout most of his racing career, Lithgow Panther boasts a current personal best time of 29.521 set in July. Britton believes Lithgow Panther is heavily suited to the format.

“He’s always been a fast trial dog. He gives away a start in races but he’s shown at times that he’s got some freakish ability – his win at Traralgon in June is an example of that.

“This sort of format suits him. In races he’s trying to come from behind, in a two dog race he doesn’t have to worry about coming through a field,” said Britton.

Youngster Rippin Hayne comes off running 5th in the Group 1 Maturity Classic at The Meadows earlier this month. Although not yet regarded for setting blistering times Britton is confident he can set a competitive time.

“He’s shown improvement in his last 10 or 12 starts – he’s run a couple of 29.40s at Sandown and not had everything go his way. I think he’s running right at the top of his game at the moment.”

Kennel mate to the pair, Fanta Bale, set a flying 29.359 at Sandown park in her race track debut – currently 6th on the leader board. The plan is to enter her in Angle Park’s Adelaide Oaks which heats clash with the Speed Star on Thursday 1 September.

“I hope we can trial her over the next three weeks but her Adelaide Oaks campaign does clash – we’ll see what happens.”

Rippin Hayne and Lithgow Panther will trial after race 4 and 5 respectively. Live updates will be available through the Club’s Twitter account @sandowndogs with times and information as it happens.

Click here for more more information on Speed Star

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Jason Adams
About Jason Adams - Racing Operations Coordinator at Sandown Park. Over 8 years involvement in greyhound racing and one of the sport's biggest and most passionate fans.
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