Droopys Display Shines with Record-Breaking Victory
DROOPYS DISPLAY delivered the best performance of his career to claim Category One glory in the Premier Greyhound Racing Kent Derby Final at Central Park, setting a new track record in the process.
Trained by Maxine Locke of Romford for the JR Racing Syndicate, the June 2022 son of Dromana Bucko and Droopys Zero took control of the 491m race early on after a sharp break. He dominated the entire trip, securing the £20,000 top prize.
Key to the 18-1 underdog’s success was denying favourite King Memphis (4-7F) and El Tornillo, trained by Dave Lee, the lead. After trapping swiftly and showing great speed at the turn, the Northern Puppy Derby finalist quickly assumed control.
Holding a strong gallop throughout, Droopys Display crossed the finish line three and three-quarter lengths ahead of Liz McNair’s multi-title winner King Memphis, who chased hard but had to settle for second.
For Locke, the victory felt surreal as she listened to the race commentary while on a packed plane, headed for a family vacation. She admitted with a laugh that it was clear she was celebrating something, though her fellow passengers likely didn’t realize it was for a greyhound race.
Locke shared her excitement, expressing joy for both the kennel and the owners, and took the opportunity to thank Central Park and Premier Greyhound Racing for supporting the Kent Derby. She also praised her kennel team, including Jo, Megan, Cherry, Parise, and Finn, as well as her dog-buying partners Jack Russell, Gavin O’Mahoney, Rob Howe, and her father.
Reflecting on Droopys Display's talent, Locke noted that they always knew he had incredible speed, despite a recent dip in form. She mentioned that his performance in Newcastle, where he reached the final unbeaten, and his victory in a Monmore puppy race, were signs of his potential. She was thrilled to see him return to top form in the final, which made the win even more special, especially since she couldn’t be there in person.
Looking ahead, Locke mentioned the Premier Greyhound Racing Eclipse at Nottingham and the Coral Olympic at Hove as possible upcoming targets for Droopys Display.