Latest news with #GreyhoundDerby
BBC News
17-06-2025
- Sport
- BBC News
Belgian trainer wins Greyhound Derby in Towcester
A greyhound trainer from Belgium and his dog have celebrated after winning the Greyhound Derby and £175,000 in prize money. Patrick Janssens and Droopys Plunge, who are based in Norfolk, appeared in Saturday's final of the competition in Towcester, the trainer had success at the Derby taking first and second spots in 2021 before coming runner-up in 2023. He said: "It's the pinnacle of the sport. You can't get nothing bigger or more exciting." The first round of the Derby took place in May and saw 192 dogs start in the competition, before the final was whittled down to six dogs with Droopys Plunge up against five rivals from Ireland. On winning, Mr Janssens said: "It's the biggest achievement you can get in greyhound racing. "Towcester is a very special venue and the atmosphere they get, is amazing... the best dogs were in the final." He said while he was confident that Droopy Plunge was "good enough", sometimes in the sport you need "a bit of luck". However, he said he trained greyhounds to win and he hoped to come back and remain triumphant. It was a love for racing that brought Mr Janssens to England about 25 years ago, and while it is home, he said he loves being able to represent the country. He found a property north of the Norfolk-Suffolk border and began running his dogs at Mildenhall, Suffolk, before transferring them to Towcester. In the event's final, they were the last pair to represent England. "When you make the final it's a great achievement on its own, whether you finish first or last."Towcester is a proper venue... the dog track itself is so good because it's a proper test of a greyhound."You watch the race and it's an exciting race to watch - there's so much happening." Despite having Droopys Plunge for almost two years, one of the challenges they face during racing includes the greyhound not liking strangers. During the parade, he said his focus was keeping the dogs calm with the crowds and seeing how they express themselves. He said: "When you see how Droopys Plunge won that race, he used his brain to win."He was really focused and that is a lot of credit to the dog himself. That's not something I can do, or I can teach him." Follow Norfolk news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.
BBC News
14-06-2025
- Sport
- BBC News
Belgian trainer aims for English winner in Greyhound Derby
Trainers are preparing for the Greyhound Derby, one of the biggest dates on the sports calendar, and the hopes of an English winner are down to a man from Plunge is running in Saturday's final at Towcester in Northamptonshire, up against five rivals from Janssens, now based in Norfolk, said his dog "is an outsider" but added he was "confident".The event had previously attracted about 4,000 people to the track although some people concerned about animal welfare want to see the sport banned. In 2023 protesters attempted to disrupt the Towcester event. Mr Janssens said he wanted to be involved in the sport from an early age, despite Belgium not being known for greyhound 54-year-old said: "When I was kid, I lived between Antwerp and the border with Holland. I used to walk two Afghans and a greyhound, and I loved that greyhound."Racing is only a hobby in Belgium, but on a Sunday I went to a dog track, loved it and wanted a dog myself."My dad started to take me to the tracks at the weekends, and when I was 14 I finished second in the Belgian championships." His love for the sport eventually brought him to England."In 1996 I went to my first Derby at Wimbledon and loved it, and I went to every Derby there until it closed. I also went to the Irish Derby," he said."By 2000, I'd decided I wanted to work with these greyhounds and do it as a profession."After a stint away from the sport, he found a property just north of the Norfolk-Suffolk border and began running his dogs at Mildenhall before moving them to trainer has had success in the Derby with first and second spots in 2021, and he had another runner-up in says of Droopys Plunge: "He's done very well to qualify through every round. He's qualified despite having some terrible draws so far." Follow Norfolk news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.
The Sun
13-06-2025
- Sport
- The Sun
I've found a beautiful 15-2 tip at York that can build the bank for Royal Ascot
THIS weekend is very much the calm before the Royal Ascot storm - but I still reckon I've managed to unearth a tasty punt. I'm hoping to warm up for the big meeting with a decent eachway run from Blue For You in the 7f handicap at York. 1 My selection is handicapped to go well for David O'Meara and Danny Tudhope. To be honest I don't often get this yard right, but I think Blue For You is worth taking a risk on as an animal who loves the track. Blue For You usually goes over a mile, and was a winner at York in July of last year off 95. Having not scored since, he's on 95 again now, and he had a perfectly decent run over 7f at Haydock in April. He's hard to predict but a few quid each-way is, in my opinion, well worth it. Elsewhere at York I wonder if some headgear will spark up Chillingham? Time will tell… but I'll give him a go each-way too. Meanwhile, the Greyhound Derby final is here and it's the defending champion against a fellow Irish champion in a right old smashup. That's what we get in the climax of the coveted £175,000 Starsports Greyhound Derby at Towcester on Saturday night, which promises to be an absolute belter. De Lahdedah, handled by Liam Dowling, bids to become just the fifth greyhound in history to achieve back-to-back successes. And remember those that have done so are names from yesteryear that will always live long in the memory of dog loving fans. Think Mick the Miller (1929-30), Patricias Hope (1972-3), Rapid Ranger (2000-1) and my personal favourite Westmead Hawk (2005-6). But to score, De Lahdedah will have to destroy Graham Holland's Bockos Diamond, who aims to make history and do something only Toms the Best has ever achieved, and that's to land the Irish and English Derby. This is a proper race, and after ITV duties at York I'm dashing straight to Towcester to enjoy the moment. I hope you will be there to. Those in charge have put on loads of entertainment and music throughout the day. It will be a party atmosphere. So come on down and say hello. If you can't get to watch the race live on track, then remember all the action can be seen on the Gone to the Dogs live channel. You'll find it with a simple 'Google' search. And if you are a dog lover, don't forget there is a Just Giving page to support the rehoming of greyhounds. Any support is always welcome and it's something the game takes very seriously. So who will win? And is this a two dog race? Well the answer to the latter question is clearly no. We have all been around too long to dismiss the unexpected. As is always the case in greyhound racing, though, the draw is crucial and Bockos Diamond is plotted up in the black and white stripes of Trap 6, with kennel companion Cheap Sandwiches next to him in the orange of Trap 5. That also happened in the semi-finals, when Bockos Diamond destroyed Cheap Sandwiches for early pace. The former doesn't always get out as quickly as he did that day, in an impressive 3.95s. But Trap 6 seems to be the spot where he traps best. Cheap Sandwiches also chased home Bockos Diamond in his Irish Derby victory, where the latter dashed better early pace despite not getting an electric start. Some have a theory that the inside of the track is the place to be at Towcester, and that means De Lahdedah will have plenty of supporters. He's in the white jacket of Trap 3, and that box holds no terrors for him, although he landed his semi-final from the blue of Trap 2. De Lahdedah will need luck in the early stages, as he's a strong stayer who lacks early dash. He does, however, have tremendous track craft and he'll keep plugging away. If Bockos Diamond gets away I can't see him being picked up, but we are talking narrow margins here. It just promises to be a wonderful event, and greyhounds are beautiful animals to watch in fluent motion. Their long, powerful legs, deep chest, flexible spine and slim build allow them to reach speeds of 40mph. Bockos Diamond will need to use all those attributes at 9.15pm tonight. Shine bright Bockos, like a diamond. Commercial content notice: Taking one of the offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. You should be aware brands pay fees to appear in the highest placements on the page. 18+. T&Cs apply. Remember to gamble responsibly A responsible gambler is someone who:
The Irish Sun
13-06-2025
- Sport
- The Irish Sun
I've found a beautiful 15-2 tip at York that can build the bank for Royal Ascot
THIS weekend is very much the calm before the Royal Ascot storm - but I still reckon I've managed to unearth a tasty punt. I'm hoping to warm up for the big meeting with a decent eachway run from Blue For You in the 7f handicap at York. Advertisement 1 The stage is set for a huge week at Royal Ascot - but I reckon I can find a winner to boost our coffers before then Credit: Getty My selection is handicapped to go well for David O'Meara and Danny Tudhope. To be honest I don't often get this yard right, but I think Blue For You is worth taking a risk on as an animal who loves the track. Blue For You usually goes over a mile, and was a winner at York in July of last year off 95. Having not scored since, he's on 95 again now, and he had a perfectly decent run over 7f at Haydock in April. Advertisement He's hard to predict but a few quid each-way is, in my opinion, well worth it. Elsewhere at York I wonder if some headgear will spark up Chillingham? Time will tell… but I'll give him a go each-way too. Meanwhile, the Greyhound Derby final is here and it's the defending champion against a fellow Irish champion in a right old smashup. That's what we get in the climax of the coveted £175,000 Starsports Greyhound Derby at Towcester on Saturday night, which promises to be an absolute belter. Advertisement Most read in Horse Racing De Lahdedah, handled by Liam Dowling, bids to become just the fifth greyhound in history to achieve back-to-back successes. And remember those that have done so are names from yesteryear that will always live long in the memory of dog loving fans. Think Mick the Miller (1929-30), Patricias Hope (1972-3), Rapid Ranger (2000-1) and my personal favourite Westmead Hawk (2005-6). But to score, De Lahdedah will have to destroy Graham Holland's Bockos Diamond, who aims to make history and do something only Toms the Best has ever achieved, and that's to land the Irish and English Derby. Advertisement This is a proper race, and after ITV duties at York I'm dashing straight to Towcester to enjoy the moment. I hope you will be there to. Those in charge have put on loads of entertainment and music throughout the day. It will be a party atmosphere. So come on down and say hello. If you can't get to watch the race live on track, then remember all the action can be seen on the Gone to the Dogs live channel. You'll find it with a simple 'Google' search. Advertisement And if you are a dog lover, don't forget there is a Just Giving page to support the rehoming of greyhounds. Any support is always welcome and it's something the game takes very seriously. So who will win? And is this a two dog race? Well the answer to the latter question is clearly no. We have all been around too long to dismiss the unexpected. Advertisement As is always the case in greyhound racing, though, the draw is crucial and Bockos Diamond is plotted up in the black and white stripes of Trap 6, with kennel companion Cheap Sandwiches next to him in the orange of Trap 5. That also happened in the semi-finals, when Bockos Diamond destroyed Cheap Sandwiches for early pace. The former doesn't always get out as quickly as he did that day, in an impressive 3.95s. But Trap 6 seems to be the spot where he traps best. Cheap Sandwiches also chased home Bockos Diamond in his Irish Derby victory, where the latter dashed better early pace despite not getting an electric start. Advertisement Some have a theory that the inside of the track is the place to be at Towcester, and that means De Lahdedah will have plenty of supporters. He's in the white jacket of Trap 3, and that box holds no terrors for him, although he landed his semi-final from the blue of Trap 2. De Lahdedah will need luck in the early stages, as he's a strong stayer who lacks early dash. He does, however, have tremendous track craft and he'll keep plugging away. Advertisement If Bockos Diamond gets away I can't see him being picked up, but we are talking narrow margins here. It just promises to be a wonderful event, and greyhounds are beautiful animals to watch in fluent motion. Their long, powerful legs, deep chest, flexible spine and slim build allow them to reach speeds of 40mph. Bockos Diamond will need to use all those attributes at 9.15pm tonight. Shine bright Bockos, like a diamond. Advertisement FREE BETS - GET THE BEST SIGN UP DEALS AND RACING OFFERS Commercial content notice: Taking one of the offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. You should be aware brands pay fees to appear in the highest placements on the page. 18+. T&Cs apply. . Remember to gamble responsibly A responsible gambler is someone who: Read more on the Irish Sun Establishes time and monetary limits before playing Only gambles with money they can afford to lose Never chases their losses Doesn't gamble if they're upset, angry or depressed Gamcare – Gamble Aware – Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.
Scottish Sun
13-06-2025
- Sport
- Scottish Sun
I've found a beautiful 15-2 tip at York that can build the bank for Royal Ascot
Read on for my thoughts ahead of a blockbuster week MATT CHAPMAN I've found a beautiful 15-2 tip at York that can build the bank for Royal Ascot Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) THIS weekend is very much the calm before the Royal Ascot storm - but I still reckon I've managed to unearth a tasty punt. I'm hoping to warm up for the big meeting with a decent eachway run from Blue For You in the 7f handicap at York. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 1 The stage is set for a huge week at Royal Ascot - but I reckon I can find a winner to boost our coffers before then Credit: Getty My selection is handicapped to go well for David O'Meara and Danny Tudhope. To be honest I don't often get this yard right, but I think Blue For You is worth taking a risk on as an animal who loves the track. Blue For You usually goes over a mile, and was a winner at York in July of last year off 95. Having not scored since, he's on 95 again now, and he had a perfectly decent run over 7f at Haydock in April. He's hard to predict but a few quid each-way is, in my opinion, well worth it. Elsewhere at York I wonder if some headgear will spark up Chillingham? Time will tell… but I'll give him a go each-way too. Meanwhile, the Greyhound Derby final is here and it's the defending champion against a fellow Irish champion in a right old smashup. That's what we get in the climax of the coveted £175,000 Starsports Greyhound Derby at Towcester on Saturday night, which promises to be an absolute belter. De Lahdedah, handled by Liam Dowling, bids to become just the fifth greyhound in history to achieve back-to-back successes. And remember those that have done so are names from yesteryear that will always live long in the memory of dog loving fans. Think Mick the Miller (1929-30), Patricias Hope (1972-3), Rapid Ranger (2000-1) and my personal favourite Westmead Hawk (2005-6). But to score, De Lahdedah will have to destroy Graham Holland's Bockos Diamond, who aims to make history and do something only Toms the Best has ever achieved, and that's to land the Irish and English Derby. This is a proper race, and after ITV duties at York I'm dashing straight to Towcester to enjoy the moment. I hope you will be there to. Those in charge have put on loads of entertainment and music throughout the day. It will be a party atmosphere. So come on down and say hello. If you can't get to watch the race live on track, then remember all the action can be seen on the Gone to the Dogs live channel. You'll find it with a simple 'Google' search. And if you are a dog lover, don't forget there is a Just Giving page to support the rehoming of greyhounds. Any support is always welcome and it's something the game takes very seriously. So who will win? And is this a two dog race? Well the answer to the latter question is clearly no. We have all been around too long to dismiss the unexpected. As is always the case in greyhound racing, though, the draw is crucial and Bockos Diamond is plotted up in the black and white stripes of Trap 6, with kennel companion Cheap Sandwiches next to him in the orange of Trap 5. That also happened in the semi-finals, when Bockos Diamond destroyed Cheap Sandwiches for early pace. The former doesn't always get out as quickly as he did that day, in an impressive 3.95s. But Trap 6 seems to be the spot where he traps best. Cheap Sandwiches also chased home Bockos Diamond in his Irish Derby victory, where the latter dashed better early pace despite not getting an electric start. Some have a theory that the inside of the track is the place to be at Towcester, and that means De Lahdedah will have plenty of supporters. He's in the white jacket of Trap 3, and that box holds no terrors for him, although he landed his semi-final from the blue of Trap 2. De Lahdedah will need luck in the early stages, as he's a strong stayer who lacks early dash. He does, however, have tremendous track craft and he'll keep plugging away. If Bockos Diamond gets away I can't see him being picked up, but we are talking narrow margins here. It just promises to be a wonderful event, and greyhounds are beautiful animals to watch in fluent motion. Their long, powerful legs, deep chest, flexible spine and slim build allow them to reach speeds of 40mph. Bockos Diamond will need to use all those attributes at 9.15pm tonight. Shine bright Bockos, like a diamond. FREE BETS - GET THE BEST SIGN UP DEALS AND RACING OFFERS Commercial content notice: Taking one of the offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. You should be aware brands pay fees to appear in the highest placements on the page. 18+. T&Cs apply. Remember to gamble responsibly A responsible gambler is someone who: Establishes time and monetary limits before playing Only gambles with money they can afford to lose Never chases their losses Doesn't gamble if they're upset, angry or depressed Gamcare – Gamble Aware – Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.
