The Story Behind Churchfield Syd's Triumph
Churchfield Syd's recent victory in the Ladbrokes Gold Cup was not only a monumental win for the Richard Rees kennel but also a significant achievement for his breeder, George Hickey. Hickey initially sold Syd as a young pup to a buyer in Cork, but he knows that the early stages of a greyhound's life are crucial. A strong start is essential for a pup to reach its full potential.
From the beginning, Syd showed promise, displaying the temperament and physical attributes needed for success. Under the guidance of the Richard Rees kennel, Syd has flourished, becoming a top competitor. Syd's dam, Millbank Jade, was purchased by Hickey at just 15 weeks old from a Waterford breeder. Hickey was drawn to her pedigree, which included Market Glory and Newinn Expert, two of the most esteemed lines in Ireland.
Jade proved to be a wise investment, winning a few races herself, including one in 28.74 at Limerick. However, her true value has emerged in her role as a brood. Her first litter, sired by Droopys Sydney, includes Churchfield Syd, a multiple Category One winner and Derby finalist, who has established himself as one of the top four-bend dogs in the country. Another standout from this litter is Westfield Bullet, a six-time open race winner, including a 15.61 run at Towcester.
Jade's second litter, sired by Burgess Bucks, has produced Millbank Boiler, one of the fastest young dogs in the UK. Boiler, trained by Gemma Evans, has already secured open race wins at Romford, Monmore, and Yarmouth in just eight starts, proving that Jade's success as a brood is no fluke.
Hickey decided to give Jade a break during her last season but mentioned that she is due to come into season soon, and he is carefully considering her next mate. He hinted that he might choose a son of the great Sydney, given the options it would provide.
Hickey maintains a selective approach to breeding, keeping only a few top-class broods and ensuring they receive the best care possible, including meticulous attention to feeding, exercise, and overall well-being.
Among his other broods, Hickey mentioned Millbank Peach, a repeat mating to Jade, who is due to give birth in two weeks to pups sired by Droopys Got It. Peach was an accomplished racer herself, winning 11 open races at tracks like Central Park, Crayford, Romford, and Towcester.
Another standout brood in Hickey's kennel is Millbank Chosen, the 2022 Cork Oaks winner with a time of 28.26. Her first litter, sired by Malachi, is now 11 months old, and her second litter, sired by Ballymac Cashout, is 15 weeks old.
Hickey also has Millbank Marcela, a Kent St Leger finalist and 874m open winner, as well as Soul Spirit, a recent acquisition from the same line as Con Kirby winner Knockeen Dazzler. Soul Spirit, a fast bitch with a top pedigree, holds great potential in breeding.
Looking to the future, Hickey envisions producing, rearing, and schooling around five litters annually. He takes pride in seeing his pups grow with the freedom of 10 acres, hoping to develop them into Classic winners. Regardless of their level of success, Hickey and his family continue to follow and care for them.
When it comes to breeding, Hickey considers factors like stamina, early pace, size, temperament, and bloodline crosses, with the simple philosophy of breeding the best and hoping for the best. Though it sounds straightforward, anyone experienced in breeding knows the challenges it entails.
Breeding at Millbank is a family affair, with the children involved in the operation. Educating the next generation is more crucial than ever for the sport. While the Millbank prefix may not yet be a household name, the dedication and quality behind their breeding efforts are undeniable.
As the saying goes, "You get out what you put in." Hickey has invested plenty, and the emergence of Category One winners from his kennel proves that he has found the formula for continued success.