Wreck James shines as Queensland Derby final field set
The heats of the 2024 Group 2 Queensland Derby at Albion Park highlighted a stellar mix of speed, stamina, and tactical prowess as the nation’s best young male greyhounds battled for a place in the prestigious final on Thursday, January 2.
With $75,000 awaiting the winner, the final promises to be a thrilling contest featuring standout performers like Wreck James, More Than Money, and Italian Stallion.
Queensland Derby Heat 1 – Italian Stallion’s early speed on display (30.02)
Italian Stallion impressed with an explosive display of early speed. Breaking brilliantly from Box 7, he clocked a scorching first sectional of 5.42 seconds, putting a significant gap on the field. Despite tiring in the home stretch, his early lead was enough to secure a 5.75-length victory over Black Liar, with Whistle Away a further margin back in third and the $1.35 bookmaker favourite Daysea’s Rory finishing up in fourth.
Italian Stallion’s performance showcased his ability to dominate from the front, but he will need to find extra stamina to hold off stronger finishers in the final.
Queensland Derby Heat 2 – Wreck James’ dominant display (29.70)
Wreck James delivered a commanding performance in the second heat, solidifying his status as a top contender and most likely the betting app favourite for the final. Breaking cleanly from Box 3, he quickly established a lead and clocked a sharp 5.52 first sectional. By the back straight, he had extended his advantage to five lengths, ultimately winning by a remarkable 7.5-length margin over Slippery’s Way, with Golden Bear finishing third.
Trainer Darren Russell expressed confidence in Wreck James’ chances, citing his ability to lead early and sustain high speeds. His 29.70 heat win, the fastest of the Derby heats, underlines his class and makes him a formidable force in the final.
Queensland Derby Heat 3 – Tactical brilliance by More Than Money (29.89)
More Than Money produced a professional performance to claim heat three at $1.55 odds with Picklebet. Breaking cleanly from Box 2, he took control of the race early with a 5.56 first sectional and maintained his lead throughout. Finishing strongly, he crossed the line seven lengths clear of Daysea’s Chief, with Crab Pot taking third.
As a proven performer at Albion Park, More Than Money’s ability to lead and sustain his speed makes him a serious contender for the final. Trainer Pam Field has a promising talent capable of competing with the best in this field.
Queensland Derby Heat 4 – Backcreek Benny Edges Spirit Boy (30.05)
In the most competitive heat of the night, Backcreek Benny and Spirit Boy battled stride-for-stride, with Backcreek Benny prevailing by the narrowest of margins at $9 odds with BlondeBet. Despite a moderate start, Backcreek Benny navigated traffic well to finish strongly, clocking 30.05 seconds. Spirit Boy, who led for most of the race, was a gallant second, with Affluent rounding out the top three.
Backcreek Benny’s heat win showcased his resilience and strong finishing ability, traits that could be pivotal in the final.
Queensland Derby 2025 Final Box Draw & Odds
The Group 2 Queensland Derby final promises an exciting clash of racing styles. Wreck James, with his dominant heat win and rapid early speed, stands out as the favourite. However, More Than Money and Italian Stallion bring tactical acumen and blistering starts that could challenge Wreck James for the lead. Backcreek Benny and Spirit Boy add depth to the field with their resilience and strong finishes.
The race is likely to be decided in the opening stages, where the early positioning will be crucial. The final promises high stakes and intense competition at Albion Park, with $75,000 at stake and the opportunity to etch their name in Derby history.
Currently no bookmakers have odds out, but ARG will update this as soon as they are released.
2025 Queensland Derby Final Betting Odds
2025 Queensland Derby Box Draw & Field Albion Park 520m Group 2 $75,000 to-the-winner Thursday, January 2, 2025
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1 Spirit Boy
T: Craig GardollF: 14182Career: 33: 17-5-3Prizemoney: $70,180
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2 Wreck James
T: Darren RussellF: 31221Career: 9: 5-2-1Prizemoney: $39,680
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3 More Than Money
T: Pamela FieldF: 15141Career: 44: 14-9-3Prizemoney: $120,055
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4 Slippery’s Way
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5 Backreek Benny
T: Selena ZammitF: 43441Career: 37: 11-5-8Prizemoney: $49,655
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6 Daysea’s Chief
T: Tom TzouvelisF: 23272Career: 41: 7-9-11Prizemoney: $43,775
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7 Black Liar
T: Claude DaceyF: 25152Career: 31: 4-4-5Prizemoney: $25,023
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8 Italion Stallion
T: Jay JacobsonF: 18111Career: 9: 6-0-1Prizemoney: $30,820
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9 Affluent
T: John MccarthyF: 17113Career: 23: 6-3-5Prizemoney: $56,810
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10 Golden Bear
T: Adam McintoshF: 71433Career: 21: 9-5-2Prizemoney: $105,000
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