Dog Owners: What It Was Like in the 50's

Greyhound racing attracts numerous stakeholders, each playing a vital role in the sport. Dog trainers are essential, as the success of a racer heavily relies on their expertise. Kennels and breeders focus on enhancing the genetic traits of greyhounds to ensure a robust puppy market. Veterinarians provide crucial support, underscoring the significance of their contributions. Workers at the tracks maintain well-prepared courses and ensure the smooth organisation of races, helping to prevent chaos and maintain order within the industry. Additionally, bookmakers foster a climate of excitement and risk through their operations, engaging countless gamblers who thrill at the prospect of victory.

However, the true backbone of the greyhound racing industry lies with the dog owners. They are the ultimate driving force behind this spectacle, possessing both the motivations and aspirations that power the entire ecosystem. Greyhound owners are often passionate and ambitious individuals who channel their desire for triumph through their dogs. Each of their animals is mentally envisioned as a contender for prestigious titles like the Derby, St Leger, or Cesarewitch. While prize money holds some importance, the primary focus remains on victory, the pride in their dogs, and the relentless desire to win repeatedly. This fervent ambition invigorates the entire sport, inspiring all participants involved.

The history of British greyhound racing is marked by remarkable owners—charismatic figures whose impact on the sport has been profound. In the 1950s, Noel Purvis and George Flintham emerged as notable personalities at Wembley Stadium. They were not only dedicated owners and fervent fans of greyhound racing, but also enthusiasts and patrons who helped establish Wembley as one of the finest stadiums in the country, producing dogs that competed fiercely against the best in the field.

Noel Purvis

Noel Purvis, a shipping magnate and millionaire with a deep passion for greyhound racing, was a prominent figure in the sport during the late 1950s. At that time, his dogs were renowned as the finest in England, and he uniquely managed to win every classic race available to owners. His collaboration with esteemed trainer Jack Harvey, the inaugural winner of the Greyhound Trainer of the Year award in 1961, was pivotal to his success.

Purvis's journey began with a significant win in the 1954 Laurels at Wimbledon Stadium, where his greyhound, Coolkill Chieftain, secured a victory that earned him £12,500. The year 1955 proved to be exceptionally prosperous for Purvis, as his hurdler Barrowside triumphed in the Greyhound Grand National at White City Stadium, bringing in £10,000. That same year, Title Role claimed the top spot at the St Leger tournament, later followed by Barrys Prince’s similar victory in 1958. Gulf Of Darien showcased remarkable prowess at the Cesarewitch stayer race, setting a record for the 600-yard distance at West Ham.

The success continued into 1956, with Ponsford capturing the Gold Collar Cup at Catford, Belingas Customer winning the Scurry Gold Cup, and a greyhound bitch, ironically named First But Last, claiming the title at the Oaks held at White City Stadium.

However, it was Mile Bush Pride that became Purvis's crowning achievement. Purchased for £2,500 by Jack Harvey to compete in the 1958 Greyhound Derby, she finished third, due to tough competition and an unfortunate draw.

In 1959, Mile Bush Pride had an extraordinary season, winning the English, Scottish, and Welsh Greyhound Derbies, thus earning her the prestigious Triple Crown. Additionally, she triumphed in the Pall Mall Stakes at Oxford, the Select Stakes at Nottingham, and the Cesarewitch at Central Park Stadium. These remarkable accomplishments elevated her to legendary status, placing her alongside national hero Mick Miller, who retired to breeding in 1960.

George Flintham

George Flintham was a vibrant and enthusiastic individual whose love for dogs and racing began in childhood and remained strong throughout his life. He skilfully  balanced his business endeavours with quality family time, dedicating his leisure hours to his beloved hobby. 

A well-respected figure in the community, Flintham was known for his kindness, generosity, and active participation in the dog racing scene, earning him the nickname the "Aga Khan of dog racing." Throughout his career, he achieved remarkable success in classic races, claiming the Scurry Gold Cup three times and winning the Laurels on two occasions. His accolades also include victories in the Gold Collar, Cesarewitch, Oaks, The Scottish Derby, and Grand Prix.

In 1957, as a greyhound owner, Flintham set a significant record when his young greyhound, Sean Pal, won the English Puppy Derby at Wimbledon, followed just a week later by Ollis Prince winning the Irish Puppy Derby. However, the ultimate goal that Eluded him for 31 years was to win the prestigious English Greyhound Derby. Despite owning ten finalists, luck was not on his side. In the 1950 Derby, Ballycurren Garrett, the race favourite, was in contention for the win but faltered in the final stretch, finishing sixth, much to Flintham's dismay. 

In the 1953 final, Galtie Cleo was favoured to win, with Nick Savva recounting the dog’s exceptional talent and the support he garnered. Unfortunately, a minor collision at the finish line caused Galtie Cleo to lose momentum, resulting in a narrow loss to Daws Dancer. 

In 1961, Palms Printer, owned by the Hill family, triumphed in the English Derby Cup. A heartwarming moment followed when Hill, recognising Flintham's long-standing aspiration for the trophy, presented it to him. Hill expressed that Flintham deserved the honour more than anyone, emphasising their shared commitment to sportsmanship over mere accolades.

Tragically, in May 1964, George Flintham passed away, leaving behind cherished memories and a significant legacy for his family, which included the considerable sum of £526,365—a testament to his life's work and dedication.