What an enormous May carnival it was.
It kicked off with what’s now one of the country’s most exciting events and definitely my favourite, the Bill Collins Speed Star. The country’s eight fastest sprinters went head-to-head in four match races – it doesn’t get any better than that as a greyhound racing fan.
Sunday prior to the night Blazin’ Bomber gained a place in the series after trialing 29.109 in blustery conditions. This series suited him to the ground and he got his chance to show what he’s really capable of – 29.090 the winning time as he comfortably defeated Dundee Osprey.
Just two weeks later the pair returned to Sandown Park for heats of the group 1 Harrison-Dawson – they both produced eye catching runs in their respective heats to cement a spot in the final. Dundee Osprey the eventual winner at a massive $25 – a price that may of reflected his consistency but certainly not his raw ability. The win was trainer Geoff Scott-Smith’s first ever group 1 – it was great to see a humble bloke like Geoff get caught in the emotion of the win.
Earlier that night Narralee led all the way to take out the group 1 Sapphire Crown. There was no one more proud of Narralee than her trainer Steve Creighton after she was struck down by injury in July of 2015, returned to the track April 2016, and is now group 1 winner.
Not only was it an enormous achievement and moment for Steve but also for Narralee’s owners, the Gray family. Headed by single mum Linda, her sons Liam and Jordan described it as like ‘nothing else that’s happened in our life could compare to this.’ An everyday family from Belgrave who didn’t believe something like a group 1 victory could happen to them – they were wrong!
The culmination of the carnival was the RSN927 Sandown Cup. Prior to the final I wrote a story on Bells Are Ringin and her trainer Gerry O’Keeffe – a joy to speak with. I speak to a lot of people who filter through Sandown Park and there haven’t been many more energetic and happy for a chat as Gerry.
He didn’t think Bells Are Ringin was without a chance, but admitted 3rd place may be the best result. Early on Sandown Cup night I introduced myself in person to Gerry and his team of owners – they were doubtful of a win though remained hopeful of a good result.
In my role at Sandown Park I’m extremely lucky to have access behind scenes on major race nights and mix with the sport’s biggest names – after nearly 3 years it’s something I still get an enormous buzz out of. In the kennels pre-race there was a sense of excitement and nervousness in the air, Gerry had his fingers well and truly crossed.
A retired 63 year old who got back involved in greyhound racing after a 28 year spell – just two years into his return and he’s claimed the richest staying race the world has to offer as Bells Are Ringin delivered what he described as a “dream come true”.
Given the $51 quote punters pockets were empty but there was not one participant or greyhound racing fan not delighted to see Gerry and Bells Are Ringin win one of the most famous races in the world.
For the hobby trainers and owners who were successful it’s an amazing triumph, but for other participants on the same level it gives them belief that one day it could be them preparing their own for group race glory.
RELATED:
Bells Are Ringin wins RSN927 Sandown Cup
Dundee Osprey scores stunning Harrison-Dawson win
Fairytale completed in Sapphire Crown
Bomber’s Speed Star blitz
