Paw Oswald shines with 29.50 win in Group 1 National Derby
Paw Oswald delivered a dominant performance to claim the Group 1 National Derby Final at Wentworth Park on Saturday night, solidifying his reputation as one of the most promising young greyhounds in the country.
Under the expert guidance of trainer Mark Delbridge and proudly owned by Brendan Wheeler, the talented son of Feral Franky and Dyna Winter stormed to victory in 29.50 seconds, outclassing a star-studded field, with leading bookmakers paying $4.20.
Breaking cleanly from box three, Paw Oswald positioned himself perfectly behind the early leader, Zipping Kristoff, before taking control down the back straight.
By the home turn, he had extended his lead, fending off a late charge from Jungle Johnny, who finished second after a blistering final sectional.
Happy Bandit showed tenacity to claim third place, while early leader Zipping Kristoff finished fourth.
2025 National Derby Race Replay – Paw Oswald (29.50)
Speaking after the race, trainer Mark Delbridge expressed his pride in Paw Oswald’s effort and resilience, especially given the grueling travel demands involved in competing at Wentworth Park.
“It’s terrific, especially for the Wheeler family and this amazing dog,” Delbridge said.
“All the driving backwards and forwards week after week has paid off. It’s hard work, but nights like this make it all worthwhile.”
Delbridge acknowledged the challenges of maintaining top performance amidst the rigorous travel schedule.
“The driving does take a toll, not just on us but also on the dog. We come up every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, and it’s tough, but it’s all worth it for a moment like this.”
Paw Oswald’s victory marked another milestone for the Wheeler family, whose unwavering commitment to greyhound racing was celebrated during the presentation.
Delbridge also lauded the young greyhound’s adaptability to the Wentworth Park circuit.
“Not every dog takes to this track, but he clearly loves it here. His nature at home and his drive on the track make him a standout.”
The final margin was three and a quarter lengths, with one and three-quarters separating second and third.
Jungle Johnny’s impressive late run suggests a promising future, while Happy Bandit’s podium finish highlighted the depth of talent in this prestigious event.
For Delbridge, the victory is a testament to perseverance and dedication, qualities that resonate strongly in greyhound racing.
“There’s a whole team back home who deserve credit for this win. It’s a collective effort, and I couldn’t be prouder.”
Paw Oswald’s triumph in the National Derby adds to his growing list of accolades, with the promise of more to come as he continues to ascend the ranks of Australian greyhound racing.
National Derby 2025 Results – Wentworth Park
2025 National Derby Final ResultsWentworth Park 520m Group 1 $75,000 to-the-winner Saturday, January 18, 2025
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| 1st |
3 Paw Oswald
T: Mark DelbridgeTime: 29.50Margin:
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| 2nd |
7 Jungle Johnny
T: Mark GattTime: 29.75Margin: 3.25 Lengths
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| 3rd |
8 Happy Bandit
T: Jodie LordTime: 29.85Margin: 5.00 Lengths
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| 4th |
1 Zipping Kristoff
T: Jason MagriTime: 29.92Margin: 6.00 Lengths
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| 5th |
5 Zig Zag Man
T: Sydney SwainTime: 29.95Margin: 6.50 Lengths
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6th |
2 West Rock Casey
T: Mary HughesTime: 29.98Margin: 7.00 Lengths
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| 7th |
9 Mark To Market
T: Darryl ThomasTime: 30.04Margin: 7.75 Lengths
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| 8th |
6 Ritza Benji
T: Mark DavidsonTime: 30.13Margin: 9.00 Lengths
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