One of fastest greyhounds in the country Nangar Rust will soon join TAB Melbourne Cup winning trainer David Geall.
Nangar Rust won at Sandown Park on Sunday night in 29.36, however trainer Mick Hardman (pictured) was disappointed with the run following two exceptional trials last month in 28.95 and 29.03.
“He’s had a couple of hard runs recently and he has pulled up a little flat after Sunday. I’ll now give him two weeks rest, he may have one more start in New South Wales before he goes to Dave,” explained Hardman.
A decision to let go a greyhound the calibre of Nangar Rust would be a difficult one but Hardman says it is the right call.
“It’s the best thing for him and his owner Ray Tanti. He’s not suited to the way racing is here at the moment. With the way things are he’s better off in Victoria and he will be in extremely good hands with Dave.”
Geall said he is excited to receive Nangar Rust but is sympathetic for Hardman.
“I am thrilled. I’ve known Mick since we were against each other in a Richmond Derby over a decade ago. Nearly every time I go to Sydney for an Easter Egg or other feature race I bump into him – he’s always got a smart one.
“I do sympathise for him. He’s made the decision in conjunction with the owner and we must give him credit. He’s not doing what’s best for Mick Hardman, he’s doing what’s best for the owner and the dog.
“There is better racing down here and we’ve been given confidence from Alan (Clayton) and Peita (Duncan) that racing will largely remain the same in Victoria.”
Nangar Rust has won seven of his 10 career starts. He’s a powerhouse sprinter and looks well suited to racing over 600m, something that Geall has given thought to.
“I think we’ll go through the grades over the sprint at this stage. As time goes on we will look at racing over 600 metres.”
