The Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB) and the Greyhound Writers’ Association (GWA) are pleased to reveal Norah McEllistrim as the recipient of the GWA Lifetime Achievement Award 2023.
Renowned for her immense popularity and success as a trainer, Norah has achieved significant milestones, training numerous champions and securing victories in prestigious races, including Grand Nationals, Gold Collars, and an Oaks, not to mention guiding Derby finalists to success.
However, it is her enduring dedication to the welfare of greyhounds that truly sets her apart and earns her this ultimate recognition within the sport. Norah's profound love for greyhounds is reciprocated, creating a special bond between her and these magnificent animals.
The McEllistrim name holds a prominent place in greyhound racing, with Norah's father, Paddy, being one of the inaugural trainers at Wimbledon when the track opened in 1928. Paddy remained at Plough Lane until the early 1970s, achieving notable success, including winning the 1971 St Leger with Spotted Rory, while Norah was already an established kennelhand by then, learning the ropes from her father.
Taking on the role of a trainer in 1974, McEllistrim has not only been a former chair of the Greyhound Trainers’ Association but has also gained legendary status as a home-finder for retired greyhounds. Her genuine love and compassionate care for ex-racers align with her prowess on the track as a handler, guiding greyhounds like Purley Queen, Lenson Billy, Face The Mutt, Bobcol, Knight Raft, and Cloheena Cash.
Jonathan Hobbs, Chairman of GWA, expressed, "Everyone loves Norah, and, given her association with Coral Brighton & Hove Stadium, there can be no more appropriate and worthy winner of a Lifetime Achievement Award at this year’s ceremony in Brighton."
Long-standing owner Bob Boswell added, "Norah has held a Professional Greyhound Trainers License for 50 years. That is a remarkable achievement and, in itself, is worthy of the Lifetime Achievement Award. But this accolade only tells half the story. She has been supported by a select and loyal band of excellent staff through the generations who may have left briefly to pursue other careers or start families but have always come back. Team McEllistrim is a true team."
"I would not own a dog with anyone else other than Norah. Her honesty and integrity are rare commodities in today’s world, and I am proud to call her a friend."