Winning Ways Continue For Big Moose
Arguably Tasmania's most consistent greyhound Big Moose, has one again proven too good for his rivals with a gutsy win at Hobart.
The race which was open to 1st and 2nd Grades only, was one of the strongest fields assembled at Hobart for some time. With Group One-winning speedster Little Spaniard and state sprint champion, Koocanusa in competition, a close finish was eagerly expected.
But it was Hilton Sage for Len Howard, who had other ideas and after flying the lids, had set up a handy lead entering the top turn with Big Moose hot in pursuit. A great finishing battle was being set up nicely, as Gold Collar winner High Choice along with Whispering Blaze were making their runs behind the leading duo.
But with Hilton Sage refusing to give in, it was almost inspiring to watch as Big Moose fired up along the rails, hitting the lead right when it mattered. The margin was only a head on the line over Hilton Sage, with Whispering Blaze running home well for third.
Born in March '06 from Collide out of Edan Rose, Big Moose has now won a staggering 46 races and $170,000 in earnings. Owners B & J Crawford, and astute trainer Butch Deverell have been extremely fortunate to be involved with this greyhound, with a career that now compares to nation's best.
In late 2007, after being unplaced at his first run, he burst on to the scene by winning the Hobart St. Leger at only his fifth start. This was quickly followed in 2008 with wins in the Launceston Gold Collar and Devonport Cup, along with placings in the Tasmanian Derby, Group 2 Launceston Cup and Group 1 Maturity at The Meadows. Also in the same year, he was runner up in the Group 2 Gold Coast Cup behind the all-conquering El Galo.
After taking out his second Hobart St. Leger in a row, success has followed all through 2009, with strong performances in the finals of the Devonport and Launceston Cups, along with the making the final of the Group 1 Australian Cup.
But when looking at the breeding and connections surrounding the champ, the preceding list comes as no surprise. Big Moose is wonderfully bred. Aside from being out of Collide his dam, Edan Rose, was a highly accomplished racer herself. Winner of 30 races, she competed in back to back Launceston Cup finals in '03 and ‘04, and won the Ladies Bracelet along the way.
These big race accolades are becoming very familiar around the Butch Deverell kennels of late. Along with group winner, Akka Boy, Butch also puts the polish on top line sprinters Light Ice Lad and Eagle Eye.
But his biggest racing moment may be just around the corner, with Big Moose in contention to be included in field for the 2009 Group 1 Topgun at The Meadows.