In a remarkable feat, Newinn Benni secured a record-equalling victory for trainer Knight at the Sussex Cup, mirroring the late George Curtis's achievement. This triumph added to the kennel's storied history of wins in this prestigious Category One race, following successes with Astrosyn Eulogy (1998), Smoking Bullet (2000), and Lozzas Dream (2002).
Starting strong from the outside position, the April 2022 offspring of Droopys Sydney and Newinn Cuckoo achieved a swift 4.21-second sectional, quickly distancing himself from the competition. Meanwhile, market favourites Romeo Command and Droopys Clue encountered trouble, allowing Newinn Benni to dominate the race.
Despite a potential slowdown in the final stages, the nearly 37-kilogram greyhound maintained his lead. Wasted Monday, competing in his second consecutive Sussex Cup final, made a strong finish, as did Greyhound of the Year Droopys Clue. However, Newinn Benni crossed the finish line a length ahead, clocking a time of 29.75 seconds (+20).
Wasted Monday secured second place, narrowly edging out Droopys Clue, who surged in the final stretch. Reflecting on the race, Knight pinpointed the impact of the draw, noting that it often determines outcomes in such competitions. He praised Newinn Benni, owned by the Rinn Prem OCL Syndicate consisting of Jamie Cooper, Leo McNulty, and Glen Stokes, as a talented and promising greyhound.
Knight revealed that Newinn Benni, who also had another finalist in Clona Uriel, had been with them since late last year and showed considerable speed from the start. This Sussex Cup marked his first attempt at the 515m distance, which suited his running style. Looking ahead, Knight mentioned a possible entry for Newinn Benni in the Ladbrokes Gold Cup at Monmore, a track known for favouring front-runners.
Celebrating the victory, Knight noted the vibrant atmosphere and acknowledged the hard work of the team, including Maria Ansbro, Natalie, Julie, and Nigel. He reflected on the significance of winning consecutive Sussex Cups, humorously comparing the kennel's success to the arrival of London buses. He credited the continued flow of talented dogs to the team's dedication and expertise.