After striking trouble early, Slick Splits powered through to qualify, showcasing the toughness and race craft that define elite greyhounds. The effort came just a week after a strong hit-out behind Dramatical and Geelong Cup winner Paw Matic in a race that provided an early taste of Warrnambool Cup intensity.
Now under the care of trainer Korie Heinrich, following the retirement of her mother Andrea and partner Tom Dailly, Slick Splits carries both strong form and a touch of sentiment into the final.
“He never got clear early on, but he still pushed through and showed a lot of heart under pressure. I was very happy with his run,” Heinrich said.
Slick Splits will jump from box one in the $55,000 final, a draw that has historically posed challenges for the star chaser, though Heinrich is confident he can overcome it.
“He won a Melbourne Cup Prelude in 29.20 at Sandown from the red. He doesn’t necessarily spear wide; he just likes a bit of room early. If he gets even a little bit of clear air, he’s a chance in anything.”
A victory would mark a milestone moment for Heinrich, delivering her first Group race success as a trainer.
Standing in her way, however, is a field brimming with talent – none more daunting than Dramatical.
“I think it could be game, set, match for Dramatical,” Heinrich said.
“Neither he nor Slick Splits have explosive early speed, so it’ll be tough over the 450 metres, but he’s the type of dog who would chase through a brick wall.”
Regardless of Wednesday night’s result, Slick Splits won’t be done yet, with connections setting their sights on the Group 1 Harrison-Dawson at Sandown Park.
