Addington racing tips & top value bets | Thursday, May 18
The regular high-grade NZ greyhound meeting on a Thursday is being held at Addington, with the first to kick off at 4:13pm (NZST). As ever, we will do our best to steer you towards a few winners.
Best Bet: Opawa Ryder (Race 11)
Opawa Ryder was back in winning form last week from a similar box draw when stopping the clock at a tick over the 17-second mark. He has been mixing his form and has not been the most reliable from the box rise, but he got it right most recently and showed what we all know he is capable of. The greyhounds to either side of him are not known for their quick starts, so he should get all the room he needs early on and, with his size, should also hold off any challengers to the first corner. His main threat looks to be his kennel mate Ritza Alert, but on ability he should have their measure.
Best Bet
Race 11 – 
Opawa Ryder (6)
Form: 2171 | Career: 40: 19-4-4 | Trainer: J & D Fahey
Next Best Bet: Opawa Superstar (Race 9)
Opawa Superstar was sent out favourite last time and after striking myriad problems in the running he had to settle for a well-beaten fifth behind his kennel mate and race rival again in Opawa Conan. The key here is the switch back to an inside box, as he is unbeaten in four starts when wearing the striped rug. Of course, it all comes down to the start with this fellow, but once he spots that lure first there are few greyhounds that can get past him. He is worth another chance.
Next Best
Race 9 – 
Opawa Superstar (2)
Form: 1615 | Career: 47: 29-10-5 | Trainer: J & D Fahey
Best Value Bet: Nail It (Race 6)
Nail It rounds up what is going to be another big day for the powerful Fahey kennels. He was competing in a restricted-grade final last start, where after missing the jump he got into trouble and it was game over. When they are running under 30 seconds, you have to be on the pace. It is a run that is best forgotten, and back to his rightful company should see a form reversal. He will enjoy having an empty box to his outside, and with that little bit of extra room he should make a play for the early lead. Stick with him.
Best Value
Race 6 – 
Nail It (4)
Form: 4117 | Career: 25: 8-2-7 | Trainer: J & D Fahey
