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Dog Tales: John Haynes

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With a long history in greyhound racing, John Haynes treats us to his thoughts and memories of the sport

Describe your role within the greyhound world...

Until recently, chairman of the Greyhound Trainers Association. I am the BGRB's welfare consultant. Chairman of the BGRB welfare committee.

How did you get into the sport?

My father Sidney was a keen greyhound fan, as a boy he would often take me to our local tracks, Wembley and White City.

What has been your proudest moment?

I have been fortunate enough to have had many proud moments during my lifetime in greyhound racing. On reflection, what stands out the most is the feeling I had when a greyhound I trained, Bulgaden Glory, who four months previous was a Hackney grader, won his semi-final of the Derby to reach the final in 1963, I was just 22-years-old.

...and your lowest?

My biggest disappointment in greyhound racing came in the final of the 1981 Derby at White City. I had Rahan Ship running, he had already won the Irish St. Leger and the Irish Cesarewitch, (I was training in Ireland at this time). In the final he was drawn trap 1, and was 2/1 second favourite, we had 33/1 ante post and were feeling confident the "Ship" would win. After being nearly brought down at the first bend, and being 10 lengths behind, he flew down the back straight to finish third beaten less than two lengths. Many good judges say he was the unluckiest loser ever.

Greyhound racing is better than horseracing because...

Greyhound form stands up better.

There are no jockeys to make mistakes.

A greyhound will race (chase the hare) as fast as he can for as long as he can.

What are the three most important factors to consider before backing a dog?

When studying form I look for a greyhound that has a possibility to improve.

A bitch coming out of season, a young pup, if there may be trouble in the race the one likely to miss the trouble.

I would never back a greyhound that appears badly drawn and likely to find trouble. Back a greyhound that is well drawn, sure to get a clear run, and is good value.

Who is the best trainer around at the moment? And who is the greatest ever?

I am too modest to mention myself. So it will have to be Charlie Lister. I think the best ever was Leslie Reynolds the Wembley trainer who trained five English Derby winners during the 1940s and 1950s.

Who is your best mate within greyhound racing and why?

I don't make friends easily, but I have several best mates I have made over the years that I would rely on in any circumstances.

Which is your favourite-ever dog?

Pigalle Wonder - winner 1958 Derby, trainer Jim Syder, Wembley. I was kennel hand for Jim Syder and had the privilege of handling this great greyhound.

Which is your favourite track?

Brighton & Hove.

What one piece of advice would you give someone starting out in the industry?

If you intend becoming a trainer you will not have much of a social life, greyhounds will take over your life, but it can be very rewarding (not financially I hasten to add). You will need a thick skin, (unhappy owners, jealous trainers etc). It's a great life if you don't take it too seriously.

Do you ever read the Betfair forum?

Yes.

And finally give us a tip for next year's Derby...

I wouldn't dream of it.