Ian Fortune
Born Warrior and Jennifer O’Donnell were the big winners at the National Greyhound Awards at Curraheen Park on Friday evening as the former was named Dog of the Year and Supreme Greyhound of the Year. For O’Donnell it really was a special night.
Aside from Born Warrior, her wonderful brood Mountaylor Queen was also named Brood Bitch of the Year. Raha Mofo was a worth recipient of Bitch of the Year and there were joyous scenes as her name was called out with Marissa Molloy, her owner, particularly proud.
The first canine award handed out went to the aforementioned Mountaylor Queen for Brood Bitch of the year, while it was no surprise to anyone to see Droopys Sydney named Stud Dog of the Year moments later.
Keeley McGee was on hand to accept the trophy after Gizmo Cash was named Sprinter of the Year, while Noelle and Brian Divilly were delighted to accept the trophy after Crafty Kokoro was announced as the Stayer of the Year.
Kevin O’Brien was also delighted as Clona Duke handed him more silverware. Just days after capturing the Select Stakes, Clona Duke was named as the Future Star award winner.
It was also wonderful to see Sheila Spillane on hand to accept her Hall of Fame award, while Jimmy Maguire was a delighted figure when receiving his Special Merit award.
The welfare awards went across the seas to Lisa Dail and Janet Diehl. Both are based in Florida and we caught up with them via zoom. Needless to say they were honoured with their recognition.
Canine Award Winners
Brood Bitch of the Year - Mountaylor Queen
Stud Dog of the Year - Droopys Sydney
Future Star of the Year - Clona Duke
Sprinter of the Year - Gizmo Cash
Stayer of the Year - Crafty Kokoro
Supreme Greyhound of the Year - Born Warrior
Hall of Fame
Sheila Spillane
Special Merit Award
Jimmy Maguire
Welfare Awards
Lisa Dail & Janet Diehl