When it was confirmed that Jacktavern Gem had sustained a career-ending injury following his outstanding debut in the opening round of the Champion Open Unraced at Kilkenny, it was a devastating blow for his owners, the Pillar Syndicate, and his trainer, Adam Dunford.
Noel Byrne, a member of the Pillar Syndicate, believed that Jacktavern Gem, the son of Good News and Galadriel, was the fastest greyhound they had ever owned. His impressive debut time of 28.64 at St James Park supports this claim, as it was among the fastest recorded at the venue.
To put his performance into perspective, Bocko Diamond, currently favoured for the Derby, won his heat by beating Irish Sprint Cup champion Broadstrand Syd but was four lengths slower than Jacktavern Gem. This comparison further highlights just how remarkable Jacktavern Gem's debut was.
Although efforts were made to bring Jacktavern Gem back to racing, after his most recent setback, the decision was made to retire him from the track. Instead, his connections have chosen to focus on his new role as a stud dog, and he’s off to a promising start.
His first litter, with the accomplished racer Skywalker Cilla, produced five males and six females. Shortly afterwards, a second litter with Newinn Madam, dam of the Pillar Syndicate’s own Jacktavern Bolt and Ballinakill Alf, resulted in five males and one female.
Jacktavern Gem has continued to attract top-quality brood bitches. His third litter is from Beaming Smasher, the dam of High Trend (Laurels champion), Beepers Lariat, and two of the UK’s fastest greyhounds, Aero Sacundai and Maree Smasher.
Perhaps the most exciting pairing was with Fleadh Saraide, the recent Sporting Press Irish Oaks winner, who has been retired to breeding and is expecting pups soon. With her exceptional early speed, her litter with Jacktavern Gem could produce future champions.
While Jacktavern Gem's offspring won’t hit the track until late next year, there is already great anticipation surrounding his potential as a stud dog. He is set to stand at Droopys Stud, and his stud services will be advertised starting this week.