Nottingham Greyhounds: Puppy Classic Trial Stakes & Open Race Tips
Open racing at Nottingham takes centre stage on Monday evening where Joe Conneely has found his greyhound racing tips. Leading runners like Romeo Alliance, Not So Steady, and Ballymac Shontae line up in early tests of form ahead of the August 11 start.
Nottingham Greyhounds Preview – Friday Open Race Tips
8.36 – Witton Thomas (Trap 4) – 3pts NAP – 4/5
We start with the Arena Racing Company Sprint Trophy where Witton Thomas can make a winning return for Kevin Hutton. Fresh off a sparkling 14.74 trial at Oxford, the lightly raced sprinter looks well positioned to control the race if trapping smartly. Starcash Best (T3) is the main danger, but all eyes are on Witton Thomas to land the nap.
ARC Puppy Classic Trial Stakes – Heats Begin August 11
7.27 – Ballymac Shontae (T6) – Debut Runner to Watch
The first of three Puppy Classic Trial Stakes opens the card. Ballymac Shontae debuts for Jimmy Fenwick after clocking 28.58 at Newcastle and 30.59 here. With a favourable wide draw and early pace, this April 2024 pup can kick off his career in style if he breaks well.
7.44 – Not So Steady (T4) – 2pts NB
The Juvenile Classic runner-up lines up in the second trial and should prove too strong if building on a smart 30.29 trial. The danger is Aghaburren Ben (T1), who ran well behind Romeo Ability recently, but Not So Steady has track experience and the edge if he turns handy.
8.01 – Romeo Alliance (T3) – 1pt
The final and most competitive trial pits Romeo Alliance against his litter brother Romeo Ability, fellow Juvenile finalist Santas Amigo, and the improving Kranky Drake. Alliance, the Juvenile Classic winner, has the class edge despite being drawn outside his brother. Kranky Drake remains a threat but this could be all about Romeo Alliance's progression.
Sprint & Stayers Action Continues
8.54 – Stonepark Hoffa (T4)
Back from a strong Newcastle win, Stonepark Hoffa sets a high bar. With strong competition from Rental Crisis, Noels Shadow, and Leelad, the early pace will be key. If Hoffa traps level, his back-straight gears could prove decisive.
9.28 – Vale Bluebell (T3)
In the Stayers Trophy over 680m, Vale Bluebell can complete a quick double over C&D. She beat Stonepark Abba convincingly last week, and if she clears the inside runners early, she should pull away to score again for fans of staying types.
