In a remarkable turn of events, a greyhound named Aston Gozo made waves at the recent Cadillac Racing Mount Gambier Cup Calcutta auction, surpassing all expectations and setting a new record in Calcutta bidding. The Victorian greyhound, under the ownership of Ray Borda and trained by Robert Pallotta, stood out among 63 competitors in the Group 3 event. Aston Gozo, a descendant of Aston Dee Bee and Aston Gwen, had showcased its prowess with a swift victory at Sandown Park, clocking an impressive 29.36 seconds over 515 meters. This stellar performance positioned her as the top seed in the Calcutta rankings, culminating in a thrilling auction where she fetched an unprecedented bid of $1560, shattering the previous record set in 2024.

The Mount Gambier Calcutta also saw strong interest in other contenders, with Darcy Dakota and Leo Bale securing bids of $630 and $620, respectively. The rich history of the Mount Gambier Cup, which dates back to its inception in 1981 at Glenburnie, has seen significant evolution in the conduct of Calcutta auctions over the years. Transitioning from traditional pen-and-paper methods to modern computerized systems, thanks to individuals like Jason Newman and Dave Green, has streamlined the process and enhanced the overall experience for participants.

The auction night, hosted at Tara Raceway’s upgraded clubrooms, was ably managed by MC Graham Gill, auctioneer Chris Manser, and spotter John “Slogger” Richardson. Despite a slight dip in attendance, the enthusiasm surrounding the auction was palpable, reflecting the community’s support for local trainers and the racing event. The total Calcutta pool reached $7344, with the top three bids receiving $5141, $1468, and $734, respectively.

Following the auction, Aston Gozo continued to impress on the track, maintaining her top position by securing a convincing victory in the heats. The stage is now set for the upcoming Mount Gambier Cup final, scheduled for April 6 at Tara Raceway. The box draw, overseen by Greyhound Racing SA Racing Manager Shaun Mathieson, revealed the lineup of talented greyhounds vying for the prestigious title.

As anticipation builds for the Mount Gambier Cup final, the community eagerly awaits the thrilling showdown among these elite greyhounds. The event not only showcases the skill and agility of these racing stars but also underscores the enduring appeal of greyhound racing as a sport that captivates audiences and enthusiasts alike. With each race, the legacy of the Mount Gambier Cup continues to grow, drawing both local support and national attention to this premier racing event.