Nottinghamshire trainer Phil Milner can qualify for a third Category One final of his career on Monday when star bitch Keefill Peppa runs in the BGBF British Breeders Stakes semi-finals.
The Retford handler qualified his sole competition entry in eye-catching style a week ago when the white and brindle bitch broke well to win off the front in 30.22 seconds – the second fastest qualifying time.
She’s been drawn in the first of two semi-finals at the Colwick Park venue this evening where the first three greyhounds to past the post in each race will qualify for next week’s £10,000 Grand Final.
Lining up from trap four could prove a challenge with Keefill Peppa only racing competitively in the black jacket only once before in her career to date. But Phil said the drive and determination of his bitch will play to her strengths when traps rise.
“Peppa has been ready for this competition for a while,” said Phil. “It’s been slightly frustrating as she is one of the fastest of her litter, but she’s had a few setbacks along the way.
“She was running at Sheffield consistently and when she trialled at Nottingham before this competition started we knew she left a couple of lengths out on the track, which is to be expected.
“I couldn’t believe Monday’s run in Round One. She stays on really strong and when she’s on the bunny she can be a hard greyhound to catch.
“Her drive is a huge asset, although she doesn’t have the racing brain of her sister (Keefill Delphine) – we’ll keep our fingers crossed for a top three spot on Monday.”
Joining Keefill Peppa in semi-final one is Platinumheatwave from trap one, Acomb Felix and Acomb Alfie in boxes two and three while Acomb Jasper and fastest qualifier Coppice Gracie run from trap five and six respectively.
Doors open this evening at 5.30pm with the first of 12 races scheduled to start at 6.38pm. Tickets are available to purchase online by clicking here or will be available on the door.
BGBF British Breeders Stakes Semi Finals:
Semi Final One: Platinumheatwave, Acomb Felix, Acomb Alfie, Keefill Peppa, Acomb Jasper, Coppice Gracie.
Semi Final Two: Tickets Bullet, All Out Rosie, Acomb Mabel, Westwell Diego, Acomb Irene, Acomb Johnny.
