Deering One Step Closer To Breakthrough Group 1

OWNER-trainer Greg Deering will change nothing in the preparation of exciting youngster Times Three as he goes into next Thursday night's final of the Group 1 Gold Bullion (520m) at Albion Park.

And that includes his wife Kim handling the dog.

Times Three (Zambora Brockie-Kinslee) was sensational winning his heat in 29.89 scoring by three and a half lengths over Hara's Skye. It was his 14th victory in 22 starts and his 13th from his past 15 outings.

Greg, a fitter with Qld Rail, had to work a night shift on Thursday and it was up to Kim to handle the dog “and the post-race interviews”.

Times Three is the first Group 1 finalist for Greg and Kim.

“Kim did a fabulous job last night,” said Greg. “Look at how he flew out for her.

“There is no way we will change that now.”

Greg will restrict Times Three to a bit of free galloping up the straight during the week.

Times Three has drawn the three in next week's final.

“We are very happy with that,” said Greg.

“The first sections are pretty much all the same and I'm hoping he can show that sort of dash again.”

Times Three shares the 431m first section record at Ipswich to proven what early pace he has.

“We got a few offers for him around that time,” said Greg. “But there is no way Kim would let me sell him.”

Greg, 40 this year, has been in greyhound racing for eight years starting out as a track helper for Noel Evans.

He and Kim last year bought eight acres at Karrabin to establish a greyhound property. They now have seven in training and a few pups being reared.

He says perfectly boxed Hello Mike is the one to beat out of the two box.

“He's got the early pace and the right box to use it,” said Greg.

Hara's Herbie was quickest of the heat winners with a 29.64 but Greg believes his six box draw will not help him in the final.

Jay Is Jay won his way straight into the Gold Bullion final with victory in the Golden Ticket and Greg gives him a great chance in the final.

“He's such a quick dog and the seven will suit him in the final as well,” said Greg.

Other heats of the Gold Bullion went to:

Come On Aussie in 30.02 beating Hopeful Bill

De Ferran in 29.98 over the luckless Throttle

TWO heats of the Group 3 Gold Cup (710m) were won by grand campaigner Mepunga Ruby in 41.95 and Superman Keeping storming home to win in 42.08.