2013 SCHWEPPES SA DERBY – REVIEW
Not since the exploits of champion SA chaser Scull Murphy about seven years ago has an SA greyhound developed a cult following on the National scene however last night at Angle Park Ernie Bung Arrow took another step towards being the next cult hero for many greyhound fans around the Nation.
The Ken Gill trained flyer stepped out in the Group 3 Schweppes SA Derby last night against a high quality field and didn’t disappoint his supporters. He was one of the favourites for the time honoured event on the back of plenty of local support and the fact that most form analysts had him leading the hot field. As the lids flew open Ernie Bung Arrow was not as slick as normal from box 2 in his first few strides however once balanced up he accelerated brilliantly to comfortably find the front leaving the front straight in a sizzling first split of 4.37. Tonk for Victorian trainer Charles Mercieca pushed through to second on the first turn making full use of his inside box and gave chase to the local star with Kalden Gambino moving to third for trainer Troy Murray.
Ernie Bung Arrow held his advantage down the back straight getting to the second split in a flying 16.74 with his competition struggling to keep in touch. Rounding the home turn “Ernie” was in no danger going on to record a sensational victory as he powered to the line in a brilliant 29.55 to win by 1½ lengths from Tonk with Kalden Gambino hanging on well for third a further 2 lengths back.
The $25,000 first prize took “Ernie’s” prizemoney past $40,000 and the impressive record of 11 wins and 1 second from his 12 lifetime starts. Locally bred out of Lochinvar Marlow and Slipper’s Tonic he also picked up a $3,500 bonus for his breeder Barry Jones thanks to the GRSA Super Bonus scheme for SA Bred Group winners.
At only 22 months old Ernie Bung Arrow has a very bright future in front of him with the Group 1 Triple M Adelaide Cup next month and then the Group 1 Silver Chief at the Meadows at the end of the year his likely next targets. One can only assume with performances like last night his cult following will continue to grow with all greyhound followers.
Click here to few a replay of the race.