TV Trophy Overview
The TV Trophy greyhound race boasts a unique and captivating format. Unlike traditional events, it does not have a set location; instead, it travels from venue to venue, akin to a travelling circus, selecting a new stadium each year. The host city comes alive with excitement as fresh names of dogs, owners, and trainers emerge, all seizing the opportunity to shine right in their own backyard. The adage "If the mountain won't come to Muhammad, Muhammad will come to the mountain" perfectly encapsulates this spirit. Each new location infuses the TV Trophy race with its own distinct character, shaped by the local atmosphere. The race was designed to unite dog racing enthusiasts across Britain, spark regional interest in the sport, and provide a platform for lesser-known athletes to make their mark. Ultimately, the TV Trophy results in a festive and entertaining event—something no Englishman would want to miss!
Origins of the Event
From its inception, greyhound racing in the UK was governed by the National Greyhound Racing Club (NGRC). In 2009, the Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB) was established, introducing a renewed focus on the welfare of the dogs.
In 1958, the NGRC made a landmark agreement with the BBC to host and broadcast a special annual greyhound race on their Sportsview channel. This event was distinctive due to its changing venue each year, and the partnership with the BBC was immortalised in the race's name—the Sportsview BBC Television Trophy, now simply known as the TV Trophy. This strategic alliance provided advantages for both parties: the BBC garnered higher viewership, while the greyhound racing industry enjoyed increased public interest and attendance at racecourses.
The inaugural race took place on May 21 at Wimbledon Stadium, covering a distance of 500 yards. That year, the spotlight was on Pigalle Wonder, the 1958 English Greyhound Derby champion, trained by Jim Syder Jr. Although he finished fourth out of six competitors, the crowd applauded his impressive performance. The first-ever winner of the race was Town Prince (20-1), trained by Leslie Reynolds at Wembley, who was already a prominent figure with five previous English Greyhound Derby victories to his name. In 1959, Reynolds continued his winning streak with his dog Dont Divulge (5-1) prevailing over the favourite Dunmore Rocco (1-1f).
The second race, held at the now-defunct West Ham Stadium, increased the distance to 700 yards, transforming the event into a thrilling marathon, evidenced by a significant rise in spectator attendance and enthusiasm. By the third year, the distance was further extended to 880 yards, which later proved to be the optimal length that remained unchanged for many years.
TV Trophy Champion Dogs
Since its inception, the TV Trophy has captivated audiences, even eclipsing the Greyhound Derby in popularity. For many families, it became the highlight of the racing calendar, creating cherished memories of gathering around the television to cheer for their favourite dogs. A standout moment in its history was the 1985-1986 series, where Scurlogue Champ clinched victory twice at Montmore and Brough Park. His unconventional running technique thrilled fans; while he often lagged at the start, he would eventually surge ahead, overtaking competitors to finish first. This thrilling spectacle made Scurlogue Champ and his trainer, Ken Peckham, national icons. In 2009 and 2010, Midway Skipper showcased his prowess at Newcastle Stadium and Kinsley Greyhound Stadium, transitioning from A9 races at Henlow to become a formidable contender, described by his 80-year-old owner, breeder, and trainer Henry Chalkley, as a fortuitous gift during his later years. Another memorable moment came in 2003 when Ericas Equity and her trainer Paul Young upset the odds at Wimbledon, defeating the heavily favoured Iceman Yank. Although she placed fourth the following year, she bounced back in 2005 as the frontrunner and secured victory.
TV Trophy in Recent Years
The TV Trophy has been broadcast on Sky Sports since 1997, maintaining its popularity despite its transition to a commercial channel. In 2018, the GBGB announced a competition for hosting rights after Towcester Stadium, the previous venue for three consecutive years, closed due to financial issues. Crayford and Romford secured hosting in 2018 and 2019, respectively, while Towcester reopened in 2020 but did not resume hosting the race, shifting instead to a rotation among various stadiums. In 2020 and 2021, the exceptional greyhound Aayamza Royale, named Greyhound of the Year 2020, triumphed in the Coral TV Trophy at Hove and Montmore. Mark Wallis, who has been honoured as Greyhound Trainer of the Year 14 times, is also regarded as a TV Trophy champion, with four victories to his name. Similarly, Paul Young has achieved the same number, with three different dogs, including Ericas Equity, who won twice. On March 16, 2024, the Stadium Bookmakers TV Trophy final took place in Oxford, featuring two heats with the top three from each. Paul Young's greyhound Bubbly Inferno emerged victorious in the 847-metre marathon. The TV Trophy is set to return to Towcester Racecourse in 2025, which previously hosted it over a 906-metre course, with a prize purse anticipated to be £15,000. Kevin Boothby, the racecourse manager, promises an exciting racing festival in 2025, upholding the legacy of one of Britain's premier races.