Deadly Vane is having just his ninth race start in the group 2 final, but has already built up an impressive record.

The youngest starter in the field has won five of his outings to quickly make a mark.

Despite Deadly Vane’s racing inexperience, Matthews said he and Maryborough trainer Joe Borg had had no hesitation tackling the cup.

“He’s been racing well and he’s fit,” he said.

“While he’s fit, why not.”

As he said, the opportunity to try to win your home cup was too good to pass up.

Matthews and his wife Michelle bred Deadly Vane after racing the dog’s mother Surfing Idol in the twilight of her career.

The decision to end the racing career of Surfing Idol, which was hampered by the ongoing effects of a shoulder injury, proved to be boom for the Matthews.

“Her first litter, the first litter we’ve bred, has produced five winners from nine pups,” Matthews said.

The cup also has an international flavour with the New Zealand-bred and owned Clone Your Own engaged.

Ballarat Greyhound Racing Club manager Ken Bennett said the owners were travelling from NZ to Ballarat especially for the cup.

david.brehaut@fairfaxmedia.com.au