Laurels dream alive for Coleshill trainer Ruth Lambe
The opening round of the Arena Racing Company Laurels is on Saturday night at its new home of Dunstall Park, with a strong field set to take part.
Arena Racing Company Laurels
A star line-up has been confirmed for the 92nd renewal of the Arena Racing Company Laurels, which gets under way at Dunstall Park Greyhound Stadium on Saturday night.
Among those hoping to qualify for the competition’s £12,500 final on Saturday, April 11, is Coleshill trainer Ruth Lambe – who took over her father’s licence in August ahead of the launch of the UK’s newest track.
The 32-year-old has entered Gold Cup and East Anglian Derby semi-finalist Da Mighty Man.
He is joined by 34 other greyhounds including dual Category One winner Wicky Ned, Gymcrack champion Elusivenomore, Steel City Cup hero Romeo Steel and English Greyhound Derby semi-finalist No Better Feelin.
It marks Dunstall Park’s first major competition of the year, and Lambe is dreaming of qualifying for the big one in a fortnight’s time.
“It’s been a busy but exciting time for the kennel since taking over the licence,” said Lambe.
“We’ve obviously had the move to Dunstall Park from Perry Barr, we’ve balanced graded and open racing and my partner Scott and I have a one-year-old. But we’re a great team and it works well.
“Da Mighty Man I thought was unfortunate in the East Anglian Derby last year, which was his last Category One competition. He can show blistering early pace, and his running style is to cut in at the bend.
“His draw is tough, but it’s always going to be at this level. We’re hopeful ahead of Saturday’s heats.”
Tickets for the Arena Racing Company Laurels heats on Saturday, March 28, are on sale now from £8 via www.dunstallpark-greyhounds.co.uk.
Admission includes entry to the track’s retro disco after racing has ended.
Doors open at 5.30pm, with the first of 12 races on the night off at 6.20pm.
The night also includes six heats of the ARC Dunstall Dash, worth £5,000 to the winner, which also climaxes on Laurels finals night.
Racegoers should note the competition’s semi-finals will take place on Friday, April 3, with the first race off at 6.08pm.
