Lachy Balboa is shaping up as a potential heavyweight of the NSW staying ranks and trainer Mark Bell believes his charge can land another notable success at Bulli tonight.
The promising greyhound jumps from box one in race four, the Ladbrokes Monthly Medal (590m), aiming for a third win in four starts.
Lachy Balboa enjoyed a decent run on his last start, finishing second over the 590m at Bulli last week from box six.
With the prized inside draw here, Bell believes his charge can secure a fourth win in 12 starts.
“It’s a good race, but I would be disappointed if he doesn’t win,” Bell said.
“He is a funny dog. He takes his time to get going and has a habit of getting into trouble.
“I think when he is drawn out wide he doesn’t know what to do.
“I think Bulli is a track that very much favours the inside boxes (and) he wants the fence for sure.
“I’m looking for him to run a good race here and I think he can.”
A son of legendary Brett Lee and brother of current hot NSW sprinter Spacecraft, Lachy Balboa has hit strong form recently.
He won back-to-back races at Maitland over the 565m last month and seems to be handling the step up in distance.
Bell has targeted some of the big staying races later this year for his charge, including a possible crack at the Sale Cup.
“I think he is something special as a stayer,” Bell, who trained 2000 NSW Greyhound of the Year and Melbourne Cup winner Go Wild Teddy, said.
“He is making mistakes but still learning.
“When he gets it together I think he will be solid."
Classy Fantastic Sid (pictured, yellow rug) and promising newcomer Black Bordeaux look strong chances in races five and six respectively.
Pedro Cerrano has been in strong form recently and looks ideally drawn in box one to take out race nine.
Bell, who also trained 2001 National Derby winner Mean Bean, underwent a liver transplant just over a year ago.
He went through a period of “hell” while undergoing treatment but said the experience had changed his perspective on life.
“It makes you appreciate things more,” the 52-year-old said. “I’ve had a second chance at life.
“You always have to remember there are people worse off than you. Don’t get upset by ‘small’ things.
“I just try to keep positive and keep fighting every day.”
For Bulli Wednesday fields, form and expert picks, click here.
