Much-travelled Mover
taking it to the Max

By Richard Birch

THE williamhill.com Derby steps up a gear with the third-round
qualifiers over 480 metres at Wimbledon tonight, and one
greyhound racing enthusiast hoping to watch his dog sprint to
success is Parma-based Max Picinelli, owner of Lyreen Mover.
Picinelli intends to travel from his home in Italy to south London
to cheer home the black son of Top Honcho, who is unbeaten in two
starts in the world’s greatest canine competition.
Lyreen Mover certainly brings an international flavour to the
2010 premier Classic. Having been bred in Ireland, he is now
trained in Hungary by Gabor Tenczel, and his cv contains
notable big-race achievements in Holland.
Picinelli said yesterday: “Lyreen Mover was bought last summer
in Ireland with the aim of running in the European Championships
in Holland and Hungary. He got second place in Holland and then
went on to win the European Derby in Hungary, breaking the
track record in the process.
“After a long winter on the Continent, we decided to aim
him at the English Derby. The adventure of the Derby has really
excited me, and I’m thoroughly enjoying the experience.”
Lyreen Mover, accompanied by Tenczel, took up residence
with Oxford-attached Tony Magnasco earlier this spring.
Picinelli said: “The dog had three trials at Oxford, and his first trial
at Wimbledon was very good.
“I came over from Italy to see
him win his first-round heat – it was a very exciting finish! – and
I’ll be there on Saturday, too. I suppose you could call me a
proper enthusiast where greyhound racing is concerned.
“I train several dogs myself, and have many in training with
Tony as well. I like Wimbledon. I think the track is very nice, and
the atmosphere there is very good. I’m very excited about Saturday,
and it’s a real thrill to have a dog who appears capable
of going further in the competition.”
Lyreen Mover goes head-to-head with fellow unbeaten
Derby campaigner Westmead Scolari in the last of
tonight’s eight heats, with Pat Buckley’s Slick Robert
also in opposition.

'How's your Hungarian' punters were asking me as Lyreen Mover shot clear to a convincing win. The Hungarian-trained raider is unbeaten in the Derby and has a turn of pace (4.84sec after crowding at the traps) that is impressive.