Champion trainer Jason Thompson achieved a career milestone at The Meadows on Saturday night as Tim Zoo, named after boxing champion Tim Tszyu, claimed victory in the $450,000 Group 1 Sportsbet Australian Cup final. Thompson, a seasoned trainer with an impressive track record, had previously come close to winning this coveted title but finally clinched it with Tim Zoo’s knockout performance.
Thompson’s victory was particularly sweet as he had 25 finalists in the Australian Cup over the past two decades but had not secured a win until now. Tim Zoo, starting as the second favorite, showcased his prowess by overcoming tough competition, including the Phoenix winner Schillaci, to emerge victorious in a thrilling race.
Racing from the red alley, Tim Zoo outpaced Schillaci to secure a decisive win by 1.47 lengths, with Launch Code finishing third. This triumph marked Tim Zoo’s 15th win out of 28 starts, propelling his career earnings to $457,265. Trained by Thompson’s daughter Holly, Tim Zoo’s success was a testament to the skill and dedication of the entire team.
Reflecting on the victory, Holly expressed her pride in Tim Zoo’s exceptional performance, emphasizing the dog’s remarkable talent and the joy of winning such a prestigious race. The emotional win was a culmination of hard work and dedication from the entire syndicate involved in Tim Zoo’s journey to success.
The Australian Cup final was part of a thrilling night of greyhound racing, featuring top-tier competitions that showcased the sport’s diversity and competitiveness. NSW star Palawa King claimed victory in the Sportsbet Fanta Bale Stayers, while Tasmanian raider Raider’s Guide dominated the Rookie Rebel Invitational, highlighting the interstate rivalry in greyhound racing.
Palawa King’s victory, trained by Ray “Jack” Smith, demonstrated the excitement of last-to-first racing, securing the greyhound’s fourth G1 title. Similarly, Raider’s Guide’s impressive win underlined Tasmania’s growing presence in the greyhound racing scene, with the greyhound’s performance earning accolades and a substantial winner’s purse.
The Australian Cup Carnival delivered a series of high-stakes races, with notable winners across various categories, showcasing the depth of talent and competition within the greyhound racing community. The event not only celebrated sporting achievements but also highlighted the dedication and passion of trainers, owners, and greyhound enthusiasts who make these events possible.
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