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I have often heard people say greyhound racing needs superstars in order to promote our sport.
Clearly, such greyhounds do draw additional attention.
Usually the dog involved has reached the top, such as in winning the greyhound Derby – which, incidentally, is worth £250,000 to the winner this year – and there can be no doubt the likes of Westmead Hawk, who won the Derby twice, drew some much-needed attention.
Unfortunately, such stars are far and few between but in my book all racing dogs are stars, irrespective of the level of ability. After all, they are on the race card and what some do not realise is many greyhounds are not quick enough to make the card.
To me, even bottom grade dogs are stars because they have “made the grade.”
A couple of weeks ago I drew your attention to Code George, who I am hoping can win his first race here soon.
I said I would keep you updated on the dog’s progress so it is time to give him a further mention after his performance here last Saturday, when he showed marked improvement.
In his first nine career races, the best George could manage was fourth and the feeling was he would find it difficult to win a race here, so I have taken on the challenge and sided with the dog who I believe is capable of landing gold soon.
We are getting closer to silencing the doubters now after the dog failed to win last Saturday when beaten by the minimum of margins, a short head, over 380m.
This was encouraging and while there may well have been trouble in the race from which George benefited and although he still came out of the traps in last place, the fact remains he nearly won!
By way of his inclusion here and the ongoing banter created within the stadium he is, in effect, drawing attention to the track and the sport and I am happy to continue to support this little star who will in his own time repay my faith.
I would also like to draw your attention to Nippy Belle, who won her debut race on Saturday in top grade A1.
This was the greyhound’s first race in this country after joining Crayford trainer Jean Liles' kennels.
The dog had nine races at four different tracks in Ireland but her performance here was impressive. She looks a regular winner.