On Monday evening at Bathurst’s Kennerson Park, three heats will be held as dogs aim to qualify for the final on January 29. 

The meeting will start later, after Greyhound Racing NSW supported the change in time because of the hot weather forecast. 

“It’s just keeping the memory of the Orange club going and recognition that is a hub land for greyhound racing in NSW,” Bathurst Greyhound Racing Club manager Jason Lyne said.

“It’s also a good prelude for the Bathurst Cup. It ties in really well for some good quality racing.”

Lyne said heat three is the pick of bunch.

“The third heat is worth the price of entry. Sky Wave, who won the Soldier Saddle, and last year’s Bathurst Cup winner Falcon’s Fury. He’s got a 29.56 PB against his name, which is the second fastest ever time around Bathurst,” he said.

“Utah Miss was in the Orange and Bathurst Cup last year. She also knows her way around very well.” 

In heat one, Miss Splendamiro is Lyne’s pick as favourite. 

“She’s won 11 from 21 and has only had the one start here in Bathurst which was 29.82, which is flying. That was back in October,” she said. 

“Since then she’s won the [Woy Woy] Cup, a Group race, and has been racing in town with some really good company. She’s down in class tomorrow and the main danger seems to be Spring Jazz.

“The second is probably the weakest of the three heats. It’s a very tricky race, actually.

“Tina’s Magic has been racing in good form.  

“I think Zipping Sally has been well placed in that race, from the two. She loves the fence. She’s not in doubt with early speed. Drink Schooners won a heat in the Soldiers Saddle, so he’ll probably start the favourite.”

The top two in each race will qualify for the final, while the fastest two thirds will also qualify for the eight race field.