Kevin Hutton's Incredible 1-2-3 Finish at BGBF Produce Stakes

Kevin Hutton pulled off an extraordinary achievement at the 78th BGBF Two-Year-Old British Bred Produce Stakes (476m) in Swindon, claiming a remarkable 1-2-3 finish. Leading the charge was Southfield Poppy, who secured the win in a closely contested race.

This victory marked Hutton's second triumph in this prestigious British-bred event, following Signet Denver's win in 2022. Southfield Poppy got off to a flying start, securing an early lead that set the stage for a thrilling finish. The race concluded with Poppy just edging out 7-4 favourite Union Rebel, while Southfield Petal, Poppy’s littermate, finished a close third.

The top three finishers were separated by less than a length, an almost perfect result for the Burford-based trainer. Liz Mort, chair of the BGBF, praised the achievement, congratulating Hutton, his team, and Mark Gilbert, the owner of both Southfield Poppy and Southfield Petal. She expressed how delightful it was to present them with the prestigious and hefty Produce Stakes trophy.

Southfield Poppy, the April 2022 daughter of Droopys Sydney and Forest Natalee, had to fight hard to maintain her position. After getting off to a fast start, she fended off a challenge from Tom Heilbron’s Romeo Cypher heading into the turn. Union Rebel, a fellow Hutton-trained greyhound, joined the battle at the second bend and briefly took the lead at the third. However, Southfield Poppy showed her grit, rallying off the final bend to win by a neck, with Southfield Petal closing fast, just half a length behind. The winning time was recorded at 28.29 seconds (+10).

Mort described the final as thrilling and extended her congratulations to all involved, particularly the team at Swindon for organising such a prestigious event, which has been a fixture since 1946. She also acknowledged the excellent hospitality provided by the finalists’ trainers, owners, and connections.

Despite the competition, it was clearly Hutton’s night. Mort recalled a similar scenario from two years prior, when litter brothers Signet Denver and Signet Goofy secured first and third places for Hutton. This time, he repeated the feat with litter sisters, a testament to his skill as a trainer.

Initially, Southfield Poppy was hesitant to chase, but Hutton quickly praised his team for their dedication and hard work in turning her into a winner. He highlighted the efforts of his partner and assistant, Donna Witchells, and Jeff Sealey at the Bicester schooling track. Hutton also expressed his gratitude to owner Mark Gilbert, who had patiently nurtured both Southfield Poppy and Southfield Petal since they were six weeks old. Hutton was thrilled that Gilbert’s patience had been rewarded, calling him a loyal and valued owner over the years.