The field for the $1.65 million Phoenix is now locked in, and all roads lead to the most decisive moment before race night – Sunday morning’s live box draw on Sky Racing 1 at 10:30am.
With slot holders set to hand-pick their boxes for the world’s richest greyhound race, the broadcast promises to be must-watch viewing for fans, punters and industry participants alike.
Pre-draw, New South Wales’ superstar Cumbria Jack (Metro Jetting) holds favouritism despite being off the racing scene since October.
An ultra slick 29.53 trial at The Meadows last week under the guidance of Josh Formosa confirmed he hasn’t missed a beat.
The South Australian Mallee Beauty (Tabcorp) hasn’t missed a place since August, chalking up eight wins in that stretch.
Her 29.31 Melbourne Cup Night victory from box seven showcased her brilliance from wide draws and one thing is certain: nobody wants to be drawn on her outside.
Slick Splits, the recent Topgun winner, returns after missing the Melbourne Cup series through an elbow injury. Slot holders Sporting Legends were encouraged by a booming 24.60 seconds post-to-post trial in wet and wintery conditions at The Meadows.
Sportsbet – aiming for a third Phoenix crown – selected Accredited, he returns to the scene of his Hume Cup heroics. Though known for his 600-metre strength, his early pace makes him a major threat in any feature.
Melbourne Cup champion Canya Mayhem (Total Container Solutions) is airborne. With a 29.89 PB at The Meadows early in his career and elite confidence following his Group 1 triumph, he shapes as the runner who can win from anywhere.
Deadly Avenger takes the David Bourke Constructions slot and has moved temporarily into the care of family friend Jason Thompson.
Throughout the year, Jason Thompson looked capable of filling more than half the Phoenix field with the likes of Explicit, Flying Zulu, Tim Zoo, Excavation, Tarawi Therese and Zipper On Time.
After being cruelled by injuries and retirements in the past month, Awesome Lodge (Team Thompson) have landed on Distinction – set to be the most inexperienced greyhound to ever contest The Phoenix with only 5 starts to her name.
NSW’s Stephen Fitch holds a powerful two-pronged hand with Cumbria Jack and Eriza Sparkles.
The fastest female at Wentworth Park, Eriza Sparkles is staying in Victoria in the care of Harley Whelan for RAM Racing.
The most intriguing box draw in greyhound racing unfolds Sunday 10:30am on Sky Racing 1, hosted by Marc Ohlmus, Nathan Rooney and Jason Adams.
