Things did not quite goto script for trainer Ken Boody in the Bundaberg Grand Prix heats (531m) on Monday, yet both Dixie Gambles and San Marco did enough to qualify for next week’s $11,600 final.
In the first of two heats, Mount Cambla ($3.40) – trained by Stephen Bland – saluted in a time of 30.18 after a run out wide out of the pink box, winning by 3.75 lengths.
The Sennachie x Hoya dog has saluted eight times along with seven placings from 28 race starts, with the heat win making it his third consecutive victory over the Bundaberg 531m journey.
Alpha Humbug ($18), trained by Allan Thrower, ran second with the Boody-trained Dixie Gambles ($1.60) in third.
Bundaberg Grand Prix Heat 1 replay
Winner: Mount Cambla (30.18)
Dixie Gambles owner Jaycin Campbell said the Fernando Bale x Simply Elite bitch will be ready to bounce back for the final on Monday, June 26.
“Dixie had zero luck,” Campbell said.
“She didn’t ping out as she normally does but would’ve crossed and led if the 2 (Mr Tim McGee) didn’t cave into pressure and run her off.
“She hit the line well and if she draws 1-4 next week, she’ll win.”
In the second heat, it was Smart And Classy ($4), trained by Davide Plummer, serving up a thumping 5.75-length win in 30.01.
From seven runs at the track and distance, the Hooked On Scotch x Vince A Vella dog has won twice with four placings.
San Marco ($1.70) found trouble with his start but ate through the ground to run second with Genius You ($4.90) in third.
Bundaberg Grand Prix Heat 2 replay
Winner: Smart And Classy (30.01)
Campbell, manager of CG Syndications, believes San Marco’s chances are still there heading into the final.
“Marco didn’t do himself any favours missing the kick,” he said.
“Again, no luck down the back and finished off well.
“He was never going to win, all the same.
“With a bit of luck next week, it’s not rocket science to work out that they’re the two best-credentialled dogs in the race.
“We would be disappointed if one doesn’t win and the other places.”
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