REAL QUALITY ON THE SHELBOURNE CARD

Ian Fortune

Shelbourne Park hosts an eight-race card this evening, featuring the semi-finals of the 1927 Lounge Open 525 as well as a number of quality-packed open races on the undercard.

After a stunning run last week, all eyes will be on Droopys Suprquik in the second semi-final of the 1927 Lounge mini-open 525. Blessed with the most incredible pace from the second turn, he will never be boring to watch. The Barry Clancy trained powerhouse may be lightly raced and short of early speed but such is his immense pace, he can give talented trackers a head start and a beating from well off the pace.

That could again be the case this evening. Old Warrior and Rodeo Joe are perhaps the most likely leaders in this contest but Droopys Suprquik is likely to cut them down in the latter stages, further cementing his status as one of the most exciting and, perhaps, fastest greyhounds in training from the second turn.

Johnjimthsecond is also hugely exciting and is nominated to come home in front in the opening heat. A winner in 28.10 on debut, he then suffered defeat in his second start only to win his opening round assignment of this stake in fine style.

Although failing to dictate last week, he flew down the back straight to assert into the third turn before racing clear. He can go even faster and is a confident choice to lad home the likes of Droopy Quickpic and Gallant Prince this evening.

WHAT A FINALE

Elsewhere on the card, racing ends with a brilliant contest over 575yds.

Waitingforastar and Lennies Dynamic are firmly established as two of the fastest greyhounds in training and both are expected to have a big say. But they must be on their toes as the exciting duo of Journalism and Ballymac Cashin can also get involved, while the fast-finishing Durrow Star is also capable of making the frame.

Lennies Dynamic is perhaps the most likely leader and the shorter run-in will certainly suit but Waitingforastar is very special and incredibly fast from halfway. With a clear run from the second turn, he could come through to lead late.

IMRIE AND JESS CLASH IN WONDERFUL 525Y CONTEST

Two of Ireland’s fastest bitches, English Oaks finalist Fahrenheit Jess and recent Gourmet Island Puppy Oaks winner Ballymac Imrie clash in the penultimate race.

Joining the pair are Maiden Derby champion Harvard Square, the early paced Harlequin Gee Up and the talented pair of Gallant Captain and Town Kitten. It’s quite a contest and one that could go right down to the wire. Ballymac Imrie is a token selection from a less-than-ideal draw in five.

TOP SPRINTERS ON SHOW

There’s also a good sprint contest to look forward to.

After a massive run last weekend, Shotgun Dez will be fancied to follow up, although he can’t afford any mistakes with the very talented Bomber Nina drawn on his inner in one and the hugely promising Fourbellsup housed in the stripes.

The latter has only two races on his card but his latest was a stunning 17.20 success at Tralee. Throw in Carrick Bruno and Bushpark Lennie and it is a really tremendous contest.