MONK EARNS PLACE IN CLASSIC DECIDER

Ian Fortune

Droopys Monk will be a finalist in the valuable PGR Classic at Sunderland next weekend after finishing second to Romeo Hanyu in the opening semi-final on Friday night.

It’s wonderful news for owners Graham Ash and Tommy Kelly, who were sporting enough to take the chance with their talented son of Signet Ace and handler Barry Clancy will be hoping he is saving his best start for the final.

Droopys Monk was once again a little tardy at boxes but displayed fine early speed to force his way into second on the turn. Despite taking a bump at this point, he chased Romeo Hanyu into the back straight and pushed hard throughout.

Droopys Monk attempted to challenge on the third turn but was forced to stay wide of the leader, who kicked again off the final turn. At the line, just a length and a half separated the pair in 26.75. The remaining semis went the way of Rolo Genie in 26.61 and Slingshot Poppy in 26.62.  

PGR Classic

Final draw

1 Romeo Astron

2 Droopys Monk

3 Slingshot Poppy

4 Rolo Genie

5 Romeo Hanyu (m)

6 Woltemade (m)