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Trainers every year have their dreams come true in the Golden Easter Egg series – as Sydney Wales can attest.
The 74-year-old, from the small NSW Southern Highlands base of Hill Top, has I’m Pedro jumping in this Saturday’s third semi-final of the Group 1 series at Wentworth Park.
I’m Pedro earned his chance with a stirring display in last Saturday night’s heats, finishing second behind Xtreme Knocka (pictured) in a decent 29.87.
Owner-trainer Wales is hoping for another memorable performance in the semi-finals from his charge, who has drawn box four.
“There were tears in my eyes after he qualified,” Wales said. “It’s unbelievable to see your dog racing like that.
“It’s amazing to be involved in the semi-finals of a race like this.
“This is the tops.”
Click here to watch a replay of Xtreme Knocka and I'm Pedro battle it out in their heat.
Wales and I’m Pedro have proved a super partnership since their unusual union in 2012.
I’m Pedro was an unexpected eighth pup out of Where’s Pedro x Dawn’s Memory and was given to Wales as a ‘thank you’ by mate Bob Jackson.
Wales, who had been helping Jackson with handling duties, had trained intermittently for several years but decided to give it another crack with his new charge.
After making an impressive start to his racing career at NSW country tracks, I’m Pedro gave Wales with his first-ever Wentworth Park win last year.
The greyhound suffered a bad toe injury and was bedevilled by a virus during 2014, but has now recovered his best form.
He finished second in the recent Richmond Cannonball final, has a best of 29.75 at Wentworth Park and now has a solid 11 wins and 16 minor placings from 35 starts to his name.
“He’s a very good dog,” Wales, who only has one other greyhound on his books, said. “I love him.
“I’ve had some good dogs before but I’ve never had a lot of luck.
“I knew he had every chance, but seeing him come round the bend with the leaders was a wonderful sight.”
I’m Pedro has drawn the tricky box four in his semi-final and faces some top-quality opposition, including Xtreme Knocka and fellow top Victorian Hostile.
The latter ran a superb 29.45 from the inside but has drawn box eight in the semi-final.
“He deserves a shot at the final after what he has done,” Wales said. “I just hope he gets a clear run now.
“I will prepare him as best as I can and keep my fingers crossed.”
Wales will be joined in the semi-finals by another Southern Highlands representative, Zola Icon.
The Golden Easter Egg decider takes place on Saturday April 4 as part of a star-studded night of racing including six major finals.
For Wentworth Park Saturday fields, form and expert picks, click here.
