Fourmidable
Four remarkable members of the same litter have prominently featured on our 'Fastest of the Year' table up to the end of February. Predictably, Cesarewitch victor Garfiney Blaze has set the standard for staying power at Central Park and Hove, while Ballymac Taylor claimed the top spot at Crayford and Oxford (technically a race held on March 1). Haka Carlo excelled over the St. Leger distance at Perry Barr, leaving the least known of the quartet, Betsys Minnie, as the fastest over the Kinsley six bends.
Awards Stars in Action
Several hounds nominated for awards at the ceremony in Hove were also in action on the track. Five of the nine victorious dogs were provided by the top two kennels/owners in 2023.
Sprinter of the Year nominee Quarteira matched the fastest two-bend time this year for Mark Wallis.
Eclipse finalist Ballymac John triumphed over the highly favored Queen Joni in a rapid 29.34 (-20), marking the fastest 500m race of the night.
Liz McNair and the KSS Syndicate had a successful night, with Olympic winner King Memphis clocking an impressive 30.12 (-20) in his first race of the year. Sister Queen Shakira posted 30.40, and brother King Combs faced a brief unsighted moment but managed to secure victory. The race also featured Greyhound of the Year contender Droopys Clue.
Grand National winner Coppice Fox continued his excellent form, with a Springbok prep race going to Roll In Full, featuring a blanket finish typical of novice jumpers.
Move Over Ogie secured his first victory for Matt Dartnall, and the locals celebrated as puppy Noirs News triumphed for Seamus Cahill in the last race of the night.