Defending Premier Greyhound Racing Oaks champion Druids Say Go is preparing for this year’s renewal at Dunstall Park a touch differently to a year ago when winning the top prize.
The 2024 GBGB Racing and Sports Bitch of the Year winner ran her final race in April when finishing runner-up in the Arena Racing Company Laurels, capping an extraordinary career which included 27 Open Race victories.
Twelve months ago, she became the first greyhound to win the East Anglian Derby and Oaks back-to-back for English Greyhound Derby winning trainer Patrick Janssens and owner Value Racing Club.
Thriving in retirement
But the daughter of Droopys Sydney is now thriving in retirement and lives in Bournville, Birmingham, with owner Mike Gould and his wife Rachel and daughter Hayley.
Greyhound enthusiast Mike, who works as a salesman, has been involved in the sport for 15 years and owned his first greyhound with former champion trainer Chris Allsop.
The 52-year-old can even recite every word from each commentary attached to Druids Say Go’s race wins by heart and said his dogs mean the world to him.
Elegant and gentle
“She’s a champion, but Sally (Druids Say Go) brought me just as much enjoyment as every other greyhound I’ve been fortunate to own,” said Mike.
“Greyhounds are so elegant and gentle, which not everyone appreciates because they are best known for what they do on the track. They mean the world to me, and although I never intended to have three at home – here we are!”
A year on from her remarkable Oaks triumph, Sally now spends her days lazing on the family sofa and enjoying walks with Mike’s two other retired greyhounds – Stanley, aka Standby Ashley, and Lexie, aka Ballymac Alexa.
Both greyhounds were trained at Perry Barr Stadium by Sue Newberry.
Mike described Sally as one of the softest greyhounds he has owned, adding that she has a tendency to lick everything and anything in sight.
“You wouldn’t believe she’s the same girl that won all those races at the sport’s highest level,” said Mike.
“She’s so soft, kind and gentle. And she’ll lick you to death – that’s what she loves most.
“Patrick (Janssens, trainer) and Ria (Tillett, assistant trainer) had her in such good condition when we brought her home, you could see your reflection in her teeth they were that shiny!
“Lexie is the boss of the house, which Sally is aware of. But they’re all getting on just great and receive a lot of attention from members of the public when we’re out and about who are always interested to hear their stories.”
Career conclusion
Despite her racing career reaching its conclusion in April, Sally won’t be missing out on this year’s Premier Greyhound Racing Oaks final.
The UK’s most prestigious competition open exclusively to bitches will be held at the brand-new Dunstall Park Greyhound Stadium through October with the final scheduled for Friday, October 24.
Mike and Sally have been invited by the track as guests of honour to meet and greet racegoers and showcase how greyhounds make wonderful pets in retirement.
“It will be a special occasion for sure,” said Mike. “I love talking to people about greyhounds and how special they are, both during and after their racing careers.
“We can’t wait to meet everyone on the night, and I just know Sally will love all the fuss and attention.”
To book your ticket to this year’s Premier Greyhound Racing Oaks final on Friday, October 24, at Dunstall Park Greyhound Stadium, visit www.dunstallpark-greyhounds.co.uk.
