SKYWALKER STAN landed his trainer Ted Soppitt a remarkable seventh victory in the event when finishing best to grab victory in the Arc Puppy Cup Final at Sunderland on Sunday.

Having just his sixth race and winning for the second time after success in the heats of the 450m competition, the December 2019 son of Droopys Sydney and Newinn Boodles picked his way through rounding the final two bends and caught favourite Brookside Richie (David Mullins) close home to win by a head in 27.28sec.

It was a race where the lead changed hands a few times, with local hope Coolavanny Galiv (Angela Harrison) first to show before kennelmate Moanteen Mikey took up the running off the second bend, before the back-straight pace of Romford raider Brookside Richie saw him take control at the three-quarter pole. Then the strong-running Skywalker Stan pounced.

Victory in the GBGB Category Two event for the Soppitt-trained youngster followed those of Calzaghe Boyo, Droopys McAndrew, Droopys Kez, Skywalker Teddy, Calzaghe George and Calzaghe Mint for the same kennel. “All were happy days and Sunday was another one of those,” said the Durham handler.

“First things first, it’s great to have open racing back regularly in the north east – so well done to both Newcastle and Sunderland and hopefully this continues and we can grow the competitions. It’s an important part of the game, boosts breeding, and gives the owners something special to aim for.

“In fact, in this game you’re only as good as your owners and I’m pleased to have this pup for Darryl Bear and Ray Patterson. I’ve also got John Monk, Raymond Shorter and Raymond Hatton – all of whom have recently joined the kennel. So I’m looking forward to bringing some more very promising youngsters to the track.

“I’ve had (Skywalker) Stan since he was 12 months old and Newcastle were great in helping me school him. On Sunday at Sunderland he ran some race to come from off the pace to beat a top-class field for one so young.

“I’m trialling him at Towcester on Sunday and all going well he’ll run in the Juvenile Classic there. I think the track and distance will be more suitable,” added Soppitt of the Stadium Bookmakers Juvenile Classic which starts with heats on Friday, July 9 – the night before the Derby final at the Northamptonshire track.

Results: https://www.gbgb.org.uk/meeting/?meetingId=374648&raceId=750933