Miss Johannsen gave trainer Bree Elston her first Sandown Park winner last Sunday, however the 20 year old was watching on at another greyhound track four hours away.
Elston works part time for the Sale Greyhound Racing Club and was on duty when the first (and only) greyhound in her care overcame trouble to score by 1.5 lengths in 29.88.
“Unfortunately I couldn’t be there as I had to work, so Mum took her down to Sandown,” said Elston.
“I thought she did really well. She got a few checks that didn’t help her though she overcame them so I was very happy.”
Elston has a passion for greyhounds and Miss Johannsen was a reward for Elston and her Sale based family.
“Chris Johannsen gave the greyhound to my mum, sister and I as a Christmas present, as a thank you for all the help we’ve given them over the years. Greyhounds have been in Mum’s side of the family for a long time and it’s something I’ve always wanted to do.
“Work doesn’t interfere with training – my boss is really good, he knows how much greyhound racing means to me.”
Miss Johannsen has compiled an impressive record of 18 starts for five wins, but with the strength she showcases in the later stages of her races, a rise in distance is imminent.
“I was thinking about running her over 595m. She had one attempt at it earlier in her career – we hope she can eventually make it to 650m.”
Although Elston’s focus is currently Miss Johannsen, she has plans to advance her involvement within the sport.
“I want to start breeding later on, as well training a lot more greyhounds.”
Pictured top: Bree, Jodie and Gayle Elston with Miss Johannsen after a win at Sale, courtesy of Barb Radley
