It’s one of the most keenly anticipated events of 2018.
The ‘Battle of the Brothers’ – a head to head match race between staying super stars Tornado Tears and Rippin’ Sam – has greyhound fans around the country and the world abuzz.
And while the conventional thinking is that the 595m distance should suit Tornado Tears over his litter brother, the recent Crocmedia National Distance Championship final showed that with a clear run, there’s nothing between the two litter brothers.
It’s a sentiment echoed by those closest to the greyhounds. Here’s what their respective handlers had to say ahead of tonight’s exhibition.
Peter Riley, handler of Tornado Tears
“I’m looking forward to it. It’s something people have been asking for a long time so it’s great that people will finally be able to see it happen.
“(Tornado Tears) is jumping out of skin. He’s happy and healthy and we couldn’t ask any more from him.
“I think it’ll be closer than what a lot of people think. There is nothing between them when they trial and the clear run will give both greyhounds every opportunity.
Prediction – Tornado Tears in 33.79
Brendan Purell, handler of Rippin’ Sam
“He’s trained on well since his last start, is feeling good and is ready to rumble.
“On trials and times there’s nothing between them and he’ll get every chance tonight.
“It’s going to be close and I wouldn’t be surprised if he does defeat Tornado Tears, but I won’t be too disappointed if he does get beaten – Tornado Tears is a champion”
Prediction – Rippin’ Sam in 33.70
Robert Britton, trainer
“I don’t care who wins, but I’ve said from day 1 that I couldn’t separate them and that we may not know from the one trial who is faster. But I do know there’s not a whole lot between them.”
Prediction – too close to call!
The ‘Battle of the Brothers’ will jump at 7.10pm tonight and can be seen live on Sky Racing (ch526).
