Category One glory was achieved by the finest of margins for one of Kent’s professional greyhound trainers at the weekend in the Champion Hurdle at nearby Crayford.
Fawkham-based Barry O’Sullivan watched as kennel star Nunhead Shiv landed the competition’s £10,000 prize by a short-head when beating favourite Harlequin Ernie in the final stride.
It marked O’Sullivan’s first Category One success since he lifted the Grand National with Bobbing Gnavatar in 2022 and was achieved a stone’s throw from where his father – Terry, also a greyhound trainer – started his career.
The win was Nunhead Shiv’s 12th success since she joined O’Sullivan’s kennel in autumn 2022, with the trainer describing her fine-margin victory as much-deserved for owner Alan McNamara.
“We thought she was capable of a big performance after her semi final run,” said O’Sullivan. “Winning competitions at this level is a boost for the kennel and everyone involved, we’re so pleased.
“It was a determined performance where she had to dig deep right to the finish line. She’s been with us for almost two years now and has always shown potential.
“Alan (McNamara, owner) is a big supporter of the kennel so we’re equally pleased for him. The plan from here is to keep her ticking over – she loves her racing and Sunday was her moment in the spotlight.”
Nunhead Shiv’s success marked the sixth Category One winner this year trained in Kent out of the sport’s 25 major competitions which have been finalised to date.
Ashford-based Elizabeth McNair is responsible for the other five, winning the Ladbrokes Winter Derby, Arena Racing Company Kent Plate, Hunt Cup, Coral Brighton Belle and Time Greyhound Nutrition Three Steps to Victory.
Meanwhile racing at Central Park continues on Saturday evening with a 12-race card starting at 6.37pm.
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