Tough draw for Geldrops

THE seasons are certainly changing as far as greyhounds are concerned. In years gone by, tracks would be winding down and all major competitions would be completed at this stage of the year. Indeed times have changed.

A look at this week's calendar is proof of the fact. The Comerford Cakes National Puppy Stake reaches its second round stage at Shelbourne Park this Saturday, while we are down to the final twelve in the Vodafone Grand Prix at Harolds Cross. Add to these the second round heats of the Express Reprographic 750 at Curraheen Park and it seems more like summer than winter.

Few events capture the imagination like the National Puppy Stake and this year's competition is as strong as ever. There is no doubt that 2004 will be a vintage year on the evidence of the puppies on show. Owen McKenna's Geldrops Touch was the star of the opening round with a sensational 28.66 return on a track that was certainly running a little slow.