Storm Brewing In Zoom Top Maiden Final

THE stocks of blue-chip brood Armatree's Ninja could soar when Armatree Storm steps out in Friday's Zoom Top Maiden Final (440m) at Goulburn.

Trained by Jack Smith, Armatree Storm, a smart 24.94 debut heat winner last Friday, is raced by the now Dubbo-based Craig Fordham, from a family steeped in greyhound racing tradition.

FIELDS AND FORM GOULBURN FRIDAY

Fordham's decision to purchase a 16-month old pup midway through 2019 has led to him being on the cusp of Zoom Top glory.

"I purchased Armatree's Ninja in the hope of winning a race or two before looking to breed with her," Fordham said.

"Unfortunately she never got to the races but being a daughter of Barcia Bale and Solar Pak the plan was always to breed a litter and we were lucky enough to get a straw to Collision."

The litter produced three girls – Armatree Storm, Armatree Cash and Armatree Porsha.

Team Smith have Irinka Daniel and Armatree Storm into the @Ladbrokescomau Zoom Top Maiden Final next week at @GoulburnGRC – and we caught up with Maree not long ago!#thedogs #southernstars #greyhoundracing pic.twitter.com/DAWF7qXtOD

— The Dogs (@Thedogs_com_au) July 28, 2023

Last Friday, Armatree Cash finished a gallant third in the Richmond Cannonball for Peter Lagogiane, while Armatree Porsha has landed her last two for Graham Pickering.

"Hopefully it can continue on Friday – all three girls are going great," Fordham said.

"Right from the start Armatree Storm has shown a lot of ability and I am really thankful for Jack and Maree for taking her on. She broke in very well and has always shown plenty.

"She trialled 29.29 at The Gardens before their big maiden earlier in the year but came on season four days later. It meant Jack had to stop and start again but in the long run it might be a blessing in disguise."

Armatree Storm has drawn box one for Friday's $25,000-to-the-winner decider in a race with any number of chances given the depth of quality engaged.

"Box one gives her a good chance," Fordham said. "But whatever the result we're looking forward to what's ahead with her."

Fordham, who recently departed 6,000 acres in the small town of Armatree to move to 34 hectares at Dubbo, has a family involvement in greyhound racing dating back to before World War 2.

"My grandfather Dave Fordham had some very good dogs in the 1950s and 60s," Fordham said.

"And his father had greyhounds as well. Once it's in your blood it doesn't go anywhere."