Fantasy and Moment the Irish stars
There was a full house present for Irish greyhound racing’s social night of the year. Opinions were certainly divided in advance regarding a few categories, but on the night few had complaints.
Naturally the connections of Like A Shot and Never Give Up were disappointed that they didn’t get the nod, but few could argue when Premier Fantasy was named Dog of the Year. The brilliant son of Premier County had captured the hearts of the race-going public when winning the 2004 Easter Cup in a national record 28.08. That victory came on April 10th, exactly twelve months to the day!
Owner Michael McElhatton and trainer Seamus Graham experienced tragedy when Premier Fantasy shattered his leg in the semi-final of the William Hill English Derby, but last night’s award provided considerable consolation.
Legal Moment was always a hot favourite to claim the Bitch of the Year award and she stage managed the occasion by making a successful return from retirement the previous night at Curraheen Park. She earned the vote over the other nominees Side Saga and Inkys Dote.
Legal Moment’s victory was a real family success story. Bred and owned by Bill and Ann Buckley, she was trained to her great success by nephew Pat Buckley.
Sycamore Dan was named Sprinter of the Year after a record breaking performance in the Irish Sprint Cup swung it for him over Paulo Coelho and Positive Option. Sycamore Dan is owned and was bred by Jimmy Flavin while he was trained for his Dundalk success by Larry Dunne.
PJ Fahy and Paul Hennessy gained consolation for Tyrur Ted’s defeat on Saturday night when their Air Force Honcho was named the Marathon star for 2004. The star stayer was a model of consistency throughout the year with his biggest moment coming in the Champions Restaurant Open at Dundalk. He earned the plaudits over Smiling Man and Great Lark.
Reggie and Rosemary Roberts were on hand to accept the Brood Bitch of the Year award for the deeds of Newbridge Girl, a category that had been announced in advance.
There was a tremendous reception for the two Hall of Fame winners Bertie Lupton and Denis O’Meara, two of the great gentlemen of the sport and great supporters of greyhound racing.
The night ended with a surprise award as Terry Corden and Helen Roche received a special Greyhound Ambassador Award in recognition of the great work they have done over the years. It was a very special moment and the perfect ending the formal side of proceedings.
