The speedy Invictus Blu continued a run of winning form for trainer Marlene Schmidt as she proved too good in her restricted win heat last night at Sandown Park.
Invictus Blu was quick to begin and set a fast time of 5.03 to the first split before setting up a six length break down the back straight. Invictus Blu was challenged by Gassy’s Pride and Allen Zhara in the final strides though held on to win by a nose in 29.91.
“I’m very proud of her – it helps when she’s got so much early speed,” said Schmidt.
“She’s always quick to begin however a little bit weak at the end, though she is getting a bit stronger – she trialed well here on Sunday so that put her in good stead for tonight.”
Invictus Blu is just one of many greyhounds trained by Schmidt that’s bred and owned by husband and wife team George and Sharon Zogoulas.
“I’ve known George and Sharon for longer than I can remember and we’ve trained their dogs for a while now – we train their current litter and also the litter prior.
“We’re on a really good run at the moment with Sharon and George’s dogs – we’ve been lucky, I’m pleased they let me train for them.”
The Devon Meadows trainer has spent much of her life around greyhounds after the inheritance from her parents.
“My parents used to have dogs, the bug was passed on to me and as a result I’ve had dogs throughout my life. I have seven racing dogs at home, I’ve never really had a big team.”
Given Schmidt’s relatively small team of chasers it’s not often she ventures to the metropolitan tracks though relishes the opportunity.
“It’s not often I race my dogs at the metro tracks – it’s such a thrill being here, let alone winning.”
If Invictus Blu is to win next Thursday night’s restricted win final Schmidt will receive a entry ticket into the $460,000 Launching Pad series to be run throughout March.
“There’s going to be a lot of good young dogs in the series though as we know if you can get out in front anything can happen. We’ve got to win next week first,” laughed Schmidt.
Click here for all of last night’s results
Click here for details on the Launching Pad
