Amid the sombre atmosphere at the Kent track following Entain’s announcement of plans to close the iconic stadium after 38 years, the greyhounds shone brighter than ever. Leading the charge was Aayamza Sydney, trained by John Mullins, who clinched his first-ever Category One victory in spectacular fashion, claiming the £10,000 final and smashing a long-standing track record in the process.
In a breathtaking display of speed and power, the Ayamzaboys Syndicate’s star broke Crayford’s 540m record with a career-defining performance. Aayamza Sydney’s rapid start put him firmly in control early on, and his dominance only grew with each stride. By the finish, he had surged an astonishing 11¼ lengths ahead of his nearest rival, leaving no doubt about his superiority.
This remarkable win marked a one-two finish for Suffolk-based trainer Mullins, with his other contender, Wrighty, taking second place. For Mullins, it was a second Gold Collar victory, following Saving Sonic’s triumph in 2019. Reflecting on his late father Pat’s success in the same event in 1980, the win carried added significance.
Aayamza Sydney’s winning time of 32.85 seconds obliterated the previous best of 33.09 seconds, set by 2017 champion Mayshighlandreel. This incredible performance shaved off 24 spots—equivalent to three lengths—and etched Sydney’s name in the history books.
“It’s great to win one – and that dog definitely deserves it,” Mullins remarked, highlighting the greyhound’s consistency as a finalist in major races such as the Essex Vase, Birmingham Cup, and Champion Stakes this year.
He expressed hope that Crayford’s closure could still be averted, adding, “Hopefully it’s not the last Gold Collar at Crayford – it’s too good a track to lose – but if it is, then I suppose he’s saved the best for last.”
The Ayamzaboys Syndicate, represented by Nigel Smith, Mark and Lorraine Banning, and Steve Cragg, proudly accepted the coveted trophy from event sponsor Karl Brazier of Jay & Kay Coach Tours.
Brazier, deeply impressed by Sydney’s record-breaking run, shared his awe, saying, “When I saw him break like that, you knew it was all over,” said Brazier. “I was just looking at the clock going round and knew the track record was under threat but getting under 33 seconds was something else and just shows you what a great dog Sydney is.”
“Well done to the owners and John (Mullins) for his one-two.”
“It’s been an honour to sponsor this year’s Jay & Kay Coach Tours Gold Collar and I really hope it’s not the last. The timing of the announcement was hardly helpful to the staff just a few days away from their biggest night of the year, but there was a real keenness among a few big players at Crayford on Sunday to do something about what’s been described as an “intended closure” and hopefully we can save Crayford.”
As the night came to a close, Aayamza Sydney’s extraordinary performance stood as a testament to his brilliance and a moment of pride for all involved. Whether or not Crayford’s future remains uncertain, this night will be remembered as one of its finest.