Feora Lottie Named ARC Graded Greyhound of the Year
Feora Lottie, under the training of Central Park’s Bob Pattinson, clinched the title of ARC Graded Greyhound of the Year for 2023. Owned by Jon Carter and his late wife Marilyn, this December ‘19 offspring of Droopys Sydney and Feora Inish earned recognition from the GBGB judging panel for her outstanding performance throughout the year.
In 2023, Feora Lottie showcased remarkable consistency, participating in 36 races at Central Park. She secured victory in 10 races within the top-graded company, including two open race triumphs at the track. March witnessed her completing a hat-trick, succeeding in two opens over 642m, and she achieved a back-to-back A1 double in June. Rarely falling out of contention, she secured second place four times, twice against open-class competitors.
Daniel Rankin, Central Park’s Racing Manager, praised Lottie, highlighting her encounters with some of the finest graded greyhounds. He commended her consistency, genuineness, and the joy she brings to spectators.
Beginning her career in April 2021, Lottie's debut was an A4 race where she finished second. In just three races, she celebrated her first career win. With a total of 103 career starts, comprising 26 wins and 26 seconds, Lottie's impressive track record includes 12 wins and four seconds last year, along with six third-place finishes.
Bob Pattinson, her trainer, acknowledged the fitting tribute to Jon, who lost his wife Marilyn last year. Lottie's success reflects her joy to train and the acknowledgment of her nomination among the strong contenders at Central Park.
The judging panel also acknowledged the commendable efforts of the runner-up, Bramble Nickeen, trained by Steve Anderson in Newcastle, who secured no less than 18 wins during the year. Bramble Nickeen is owned by Chloe Hardy, this year’s Kennelhand of the Year. Joint third place was awarded to Barnfield Barra, trained by Kim Billingham at Monmore, and Second Captain, trained by Romford’s Katie O’Flaherty.
Duncan Gibson, GBGB’s Senior Stipendiary Steward and a member of the judging panel, extended congratulations to the connections of Feora Lottie. He applauded her exemplary record at Central Park and acknowledged the impressive level of nominations for the Graded Greyhound of the Year Award, expressing gratitude to all tracks for supporting their runners in the competition.