A TRIBUTE TO NED AND BABS QUINN

This is in tribute to Ned & Babs Quinn, written by their children who are hosting a race in their honour this evening at Limerick Greyhound Stadium.

Tonight, we gather to honour the memories of two very special people—Ned and Babs Quinn—whose love for greyhound racing has left a mark on our family and the community.

Greyhound racing was not just a hobby for Mam and Dad; it was a passion that ran through the heart of our family. Growing up, the sound of cups of tea being sipped in The Lodge, while Bill Russell, JP Ryan, and Jack McGann dissected the latest greyhound form, was the soundtrack of our home. Those long discussions, full of laughter and camaraderie, became part of the fabric of our lives.

One of the highlights of those early days was when we were fortunate enough to have a fantastic bitch, Widow’s Cross, who produced a fast litter that became a success in the sport. Some of those pups, like Newtown Heather, made their way across the Atlantic, into the capable hands of Code Gansey and Father Dan Green. This litter made a huge impact, not only here at home but also in the international greyhound industry. It’s safe to say that Mam and Dad's influence extended far beyond Limerick, and their legacy touched greyhound racing communities all over.

We spent countless weekends travelling to Market’s Field, piled into the van, where every race was a family affair—cheering for our dogs, sharing in the thrill of the wins, and feeling the sting of the losses. I can still hear the laughter and the inevitable lecture after the unforgettable night when Dad gave us £20 to bet on his dog. He had told us it wouldn’t win, so naturally, we bet on every dog except our own. When our dog blasted out of the traps and won at 25/1, we learned a lesson we’ll never forget. That story still echoes in Garryowen to this day!

As the years pass Ned and Babs family keep up the tradition going racing their own greyhounds. It’s clear that racing isn’t just a sport to us—it’s a bond, a tradition, and a family history that keeps us all connected.

Of course, losing Dad in 1996 after a long illness was incredibly hard, and we have now also said goodbye to our beloved Mam, Babs, earlier this year. But their love for the sport and the memories they created with us have given us a legacy that lives on.

We’re here tonight, with our children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, continuing the tradition that Ned and Babs started.

We thank Limerick Greyhound Track for all the years of memories, the wins, the losses, and, most importantly, for hosting this sweepstake in their memory. It means the world to us to honour their love of the sport in this way.

Thank you.