If any trainer deserves success in Friday’s group 2 PPK Mining Maitland Gold Cup (450m), it’s Jimmy McGlinn.
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The Abermain trainer’s exciting newcomer Bob’s Uncle, who has won six of his seven starts so far, jumps from the prized box one in the $36,000-to-the-winner decider.
Victory in the final – one of NSW’s biggest races of the year – would secure a first group title for McGlinn, who has been mentoring greyhounds for some 60 years.
McGlinn, who has successfully overcome heart problems and both bowel and prostate cancer in recent years, said training had provided him with the perfect health tonic.
“I just like going home after a win, sticking the tape on and twisting the top off a small beer,” the 84-year-old said. “That’s where I get my enjoyment from racing.
“I’ve seen some ups and downs but I still enjoy training. It gives me something to get out of bed for in the morning.
“I’m not one much for trophies but it would be nice to win this, especially for Bob’s Uncle’s owners. They’ve given me free reign with him and been so patient.”
Bob’s Uncle has now won both his starts at Maitland over the 450m, including a storming 24.97 on March 24.
This will be a first start with the red rug for McGlinn’s greyhound and the trainer believes the draw has given Bob’s Uncle every chance of success.
“If he’d drawn the eight he couldn’t have run round these greyhounds,” McGlinn said.
“There’s so much speed in this race, I think there’ll be a scrimmage. Hopefully from this box he can avoid that.”
Aston Bolero (box six), trained by gun Victorian mentor Jason Thompson, will likely start the race favourite after his 24.84 victory in the heats.
Marbo’s Magic (box five) was the fastest qualifier in last week’s heats and has now won 10 of his 11 starts.
Victorian Big Ticket has won eight of his last 11 starts and the powerful greyhound looks ideally drawn wearing the white rug.
The 11-race card starts from 7.18pm with support races including the Middle Distance Championship (565m), the Damsel Dash (450m) and the Bitches Only Bronze Bullet (400m).
