The Maitland Tennis Centre owner and greyhound owner-trainer has La Grand Logie among the contenders for this Friday night’s $36,000-to-the-winner group 2 Woy Woy Poultry Black Top (515m) decider.

La Grand Logie qualified for the race, one of the most prestigious and lucrative of the year in NSW, with a super winning run in last Friday night’s heats.

Eaton said the prospect of claiming the big race – named after the legendary 1960s greyhound – was an “unreal” prospect.

“Every time I go to Wentworth Park (in Sydney) I always look at the Black Top showcase there,” he said with a grin.

“I’ve always thought how good would it be to have a greyhound as good as Black Top.

“It would be unreal to win a race like this – absolutely fantastic.”

La Grand Logie was a $2.10 favourite for his heat and duly claimed a hard-fought triumph in 29.73.

The victory extended La Grand Logie’s career record to a solid 12 wins and 13 minor placings from 36 starts.

Smart Missile, trained by Richmond Vale’s Jason Mackay, stole the headlines with a super 29.19 track record performance.

Although he was the second slowest of the eight qualifiers, La Grand Logie’s prospects for the final at Newcastle’s Unibet Gardens were also boosted when he drew box one.

“Smart Missile is the one to catch but if there’s a mix-up anywhere then (La Grand Logie) can take advantage.

“I’m just delighted to be involved in this race,” Eaton said.

Meanwhile, racing continues at Maitland on Thursday.

Top picks include Natural Player (race seven), Camacho (race 10) and Sandave Prince in race 11.