Big Wave Dave Can Plug Away

Illawarra Mercury

Thursday June 15, 2006

By PETER DAVIS

PROMISING youngster Big Wave Dave returns from a spell at Bulli tonight and is drawn to win.

The black dog, owned by AFL legend Tony Lockett, landed a smart 30.99sec win in a qualifying heat of the Inca Maiden at Richmond on March 7, and posted the same time 10 days later in winning his maiden by a little less than four lengths.

A slow start from box five proved costly in the March 24 final. He was crowded in the early stages and checked at the first turn, losing all chance.

Big Wave Dave is better drawn now (box two) and has a cluster of slow beginners stationed on his outside. His main threat - Marquise - is drawn on his inside.

Marquise struck trouble when 81/2 lengths sixth in 27.06 at Bulli last time out, but scored in 26.86 at the popular track on May 31.

She is a reliable beginner and will get every chance.

Gunnadoo Show (race two) and Osti's Cruise (seven) are other standout bets on the 10-event card.

Gunnadoo Show bolted away from moderate opposition when a smart 26.67 winner at Bulli last Thursday at his racetrack debut, while Osti's Cruise was similarly untroubled in scoring in 26.76 at Bulli on June 1. Osti's Cruise must contend with the awkward six box but has won eight from 16 and is particularly well graded.

Dapto's track upgrade is on schedule and trialling will commence in the first week of July.