I have won the championship meeting twice but before this year’s meeting, and for reasons I explained in the last column, I would have settled for a place in the top three. But after taking a six point lead over Jimmy Wright and 12 in front of Kevin Hutton with two races to go, I did start to wonder. . .
In the end, we were ‘done on the line’ by Kevin. But all credit to my ‘trackmate’ and his kennel; they deserved it. Our dogs ran well despite the sickness that was knocking around. Rubys Rascal was my nap and he showed his best form after the disappointment at Romford in the match, while Kingdom Legend ran a stunner in the puppy race.
So no complaints at what remains as one of the most exciting meetings in the calendar.
I was delighted to hear that Paul Ephremsen has made the ‘play-offs’ for the owner’s position on the GBGB board of directors.
I have known Paul for around 15 years, back to our Walthamstow days. He is a very clever businessman, an owner, a greyhound enthusiast, and a close friend. We have often talked about ideas to generate interest in the greyhound industry though I had no idea that he was applying for the owners role. I hope he gets it. It would be just what this industry needs.
We have Saffron Tina running in the Three Steps To Victory final at Sheffield on Tuesday. She was a comparatively cheap bitch for our racing club and will be well supported. She is being quoted as a 16-1 shot and I don’t think she is. Is a short run to the bend and whoever slips clear will take some catching. She is certainly capable of popping out in front.
After that we have four runners lined up for the big race at Harlow: Roswell Romanov, Roswell Red Kite, Rubys Razzle, and Garryglass Champ.