Gilberto ($2.90) has started his group racing career with a bang on Australian Cup night when he took out the Group 3 $35,000 GRV Vic Bred Maiden Final (525m) at The Meadows in just his third race start.

Bred and trained by Jennifer Gill, the 21-month-old son of Barcia Bale and Surfonic showed terrific mustering speed from box 7 before scoring a thrilling victory in 30.36sec over the race favourite Dewana Dimie ($1.90).

Gilberto was having just his third race start after winning his semi-final in an impressive 30.04sec, and owner Bill McMahon said the series would stand his greyhound in good stead going forward.
“He’s going to learn a lot out of tonight. Racing well on a big occasion like Australian Cup night, I think he’s going to relish racing in front of big crowds in the future.”

“Winning this race means a lot because it’s the biggest maiden race in Victoria, so as breeders and trainers it’s the goldmine we all strive to win,” McMahan said.

Gilberto has now had three starts for two wins and a third, with the $25,000 first prize taking his career earnings beyond $30,000.

GRV VIC BRED MAIDEN RESULTS
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WATCH: Gilberto (7) claims his first group race at The Meadows on Australian Cup night despite a brilliant performance by Dewana Dimie (4).