Rawlings Out To Kick Straight Track Goal

PREMIER South Australian trainer Ben Rawlings has pressing engagements on Saturday one of which is a runner in the Group 3 National Straight Track Championship Final (350m) at Healesville.

But Ben won't be at Healesville to handle Federal Outlaw, South Australia's state finalist in the Straight Track Championship.

He will be slogging his heart out at fullback for the Gepps Cross Rams in the final game of the season in the local amateur league.

“It is our last game of the season and we are 16 wins and one loss,” said Ben, 32.

“We need to win on Saturday to stay on top and get the following week off going into the finals.

We have SA's reps for the 2023 Straight Track final.

Congratulations to Ben Rawlings & Federal Outlaw who claimed the straight track final.

Ashlee Griffiths & Cash On Delivery will also progress after finishing second.

Article here:https://t.co/vRFthm5rGC#weloveourdogs pic.twitter.com/nlKXIVSuEr

— SA Greyhound Tips (@TheDogsSA) August 14, 2023

“And, this will be my last season so it is pretty important.”

Federal Outlaw (Fernando Bale-Federal Lilly) was sent to Victorian trainer Paul Abela to prepare for the National Final.

“Paul put him up Healesville on Tuesday and he went 6.72 early, but trialled 19.38,” said Ben.

“Paul says with a few more runs on the track he will get down to 19.00.”

But that Tuesday trial was Federal Outlaw's only chance to look at Healesville in preparation for the National final.

“And, he has drawn terribly in the six,” said Ben. “He absolutely crashes to the fence.”

Ben's long time clients bought Federal Outlaw in March and he has been a “speed demon” ever since.

“He can run Victa Damian splits to the back mark at Angle Park, but he cannot run out the 530 metres there as strong as he needs to,” said Ben.

“The Healesville Cup is coming up in the next few weeks so the dog will probably stay with Paul for that.

“And, he might even stay there full time. Those one-turn tracks in Victoria will suit him perfectly.”

Federal Outlaw has raced 37 times for 11 wins and 15 placings earning $53,000.

“With the Straight Track final on early Saturday morning, at least I'll be able to watch the race before the footy game starts,” said Ben.