A surprise visit from Black Cats striker Wilson Isidor to Sunderland Greyhound Stadium has prompted one trainer to name three racing greyhounds in honour of Regis Le Bris’ men.
Dean Blackbird has registered Mascot Delilah, Mascot Samson and Isidor Eighteen to his kennel, with all three making their debuts during the festive season.
And just like their namesakes on the pitch, the trio have made successful starts to their careers on track with two out of the three already stepping onto the winners’ podium.
Isidor Eighteen was the first to cross the line in front when winning an A3 contest on December 15.
Visit
The July ’24 black dog was named after Sunderland striker Wilson Isidor was shown how greyhounds in training are cared for and exercised during his visit to the stadium while meeting racegoers, trainers and track staff.
Mascot Samson’s moment of glory, meanwhile, came on January 2 when he was successful in an A8 race.
It comes three years after Dean took over his mother’s training license and nine months after his greatest achievement as a professional trainer when kennel star Killieford Goram qualified for the Arena Racing Company Grand Prix final.
The County Durham trainer now hopes the racing careers of his three newest greyhounds can promote the city’s two professional sports stadia and only full-time club as one.
Fantastic
“It’s fantastic to see Sunderland FC performing well in the Premier League,” said Dean.
“Equally, it was a pleasure to meet Wilson and educate him about greyhound racing’s present-day operation by showing him first-hand what is required to care for a four-legged professional athlete.
“Every owner in greyhound racing has the opportunity to name their superstar, and what better way to cheer on the Black Cats by naming three of our newest additions to the kennel after the club.
“It’s been a really positive start to the careers of Isidor Eighteen and Mascot Samson.
“Hopefully, their attachment to the football club can generate some outside interest to our sport, which is set for a busy year in 2026.
“It’s fun, cost-friendly and a great night out for groups of friends, families and colleagues. And as trainers we love nothing more than showing our greyhounds off to racegoers.”
Sunderland Stadium will race five times weekly through 2026, including Friday nights and Sunday daytime.
U18s can enjoy every fixture for free, while trackside admission for adults is £10 excluding Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays where entry is free.
Tickets and hospitality packages can be booked online via www.sunderland-greyhounds.co.uk.
Sunderland Stadium 2026 schedule: Mondays (2.29pm), Tuesdays (6.37pm), Wednesdays (2.36pm), Fridays (6.23pm), Sundays (11.09am).
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