Tim Zoo claims bragging rights in Phoenix Challenger Match Race
The Phoenix Challenger Match Race at The Meadows delivered on its promise of excitement, as kennelmates Tim Zoo and Field Day locked horns in a thrilling one-on-one contest.
In the end, it was Tim Zoo who showcased his champion qualities, surging late to edge out his rival by three-quarters of a length in a sharp 29.62 seconds over 525m as the $1.50 bookmaker favourite.
From the outset, both greyhounds broke evenly, with Tim Zoo taking an early lead.
However, Field Day quickly loomed on the outside, using his superior mid-race pace to wrestle the lead away. The two battled stride for stride, with Field Day appearing to have the upper hand entering the final straight.
But Tim Zoo, true to his tenacious nature, rallied on the inside, reclaiming the lead and sealing a memorable victory.
The Phoenix Challenger Match Race – Tim Zoo (29.62)
Trainer Jason Thompson, who handles both greyhounds, was thrilled with the contest.
Post-race, one of his handlers, Holly, humorously reflected on the match.
“Luke and I just kept going back and forth. We didn’t know who was going to get it,” she said.
“Field Day had the better mid pace, but Tim Zoo just stuck to his guns and showed him who’s boss.”
The win gave Tim Zoo bragging rights within the kennel ahead of the prestigious Phoenix.
Holly added with a laugh, “I’ll just sit back and relax until next time we have another match race. You want to live this down, that’s for sure.”
Field Day, despite the narrow defeat, lost no admirers with his gutsy performance.
His ability to apply mid-race pressure demonstrated his immense talent, making him a formidable contender in future events.
The Phoenix Challenger Match Race lived up to its billing, offering a perfect prelude to the high-stakes Group 1 The Phoenix event.
Tim Zoo’s victory not only affirmed his class but also set the stage for what promises to be an electrifying showdown in the upcoming feature race.
The Phoenix Challenger Match Race 2024 Results – The Meadows
2024 The Phoenix Challenger Match Race ResultsThe Meadows 525m Special Event $10,000 to-the-winner Saturday, December 21, 2024
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| 1st |
1 Tim Zoo
T: Jason ThompsonTime: 29.62Margin:
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| 2nd |
3 Field Day
T: Jason ThompsonTime: 29.66Margin: 0.75 Lengths
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