2022 GROUP 3 BRIAN JOHNSTONE FINAL – REVIEW
At Angle Park last Thursday night in one of the most even editions of the prestigious Group 3 Brian Johnstone final it was a greyhound with superior early speed that was able to claim the first prize. Spring Honour for trainer Greg Board was able to lead most of the way and hang on for a spirited victory in the SA Bred classic.
The son of Fernando Bale and Sheeza Nitro jumped from box 7 and was well supported on the third line of betting at $4.40 just behind race favourites Yarramundi Turbo for Vadim Roz from box 1 and Finniss Redeem for Lauren Harris from box 3.
As the start was affected the early speed came from Finniss Redeem which ran to the front while Spring Honour cruised up alongside as they raced to the winning post on the first occasion. Tucked in behind was Finniss Surprise for Ryan Tugwell and Yarramundi Turbo while the remainder of the field looked for a spot closer to the rails. Out of the front straight and Spring Honour accelerated past Finniss Redeem to find the clear lead and with some bumping and tightening was able to race clear into the back straight. Finnis Surprise moved quickly to second as this duet opened up a sizeable gap back to Finnis Redeem in third and Yarramundi Turbo who gave strong chase followed by Agent Nineteen for Ben Rawlings while the remainder of the field was pretty much out of business.
Off the back straight and it looked a two dog race with Spring Honour going nicely in the lead followed by Finniss Surprise hanging on to his heels. Yarramundi Turbo raced past Finniss Redeem to take third spot but was still giving the leaders 5 to 6 lengths. Turning for home and Spring Honour was feeling the pressure as Finniss Surprise moved to the outside to challenge, back in third Yarramundi Turbo was still making ground on the leaders. As they raced down to the finish line Spring Honour gave a good kick to out last Finniss Surprise and win by ¾ length in a handy 30.71 for the 530m journey. Yarramundi Turbo closed with intent late for third only ¾ length further back.
Spring Honour is owned by the Board Racing Syndicate managed by Greg and was locally bred by the Razza Racing Syndicate managed by Lisa Rasmussen. By claiming the $25,000 first prize Spring Honour now has the record of 21 starts for 8 wins and 9 placings with career prizemoney of just over $38,000.
This event was introduced in recognition of former Adelaide Greyhound Racing Club Chairman, Brian Johnstone who passed away 14 years ago. Brian was a true ambassador and great administrator for SA greyhound racing. He was involved with Angle Park from the early 1970’s and served many years on the Adelaide Greyhound Racing Club Committee