Dog Tales / Editor / 18 October 2007 / Leave a comment

Greyhound owner and Walthamstow stalwart John gives us his insight on the sport

Describe your role within the greyhound world...

I am a regular race goer, avid fan and owner of a few too many dogs.

How did you get into the sport?

I am 51 and first went when I was 12-years-old taken to the dogs with a mate's dad.

What has been your proudest moment?

A bitch owned by Limited Ability, Apache Whitesox and myself trained by Boy Green called Devilsmojo won two open races at the stow in 5 days one over 640 and the other 835.

...and your lowest?

Any of the injuries to my dogs, certainly brings you down to earth.

Greyhound racing is better than horseracing because...

...it allows the average person in the street to get involved at all levels.

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

Look at the make-up of the race no matter how good a bet it is, the dog needs the right draw.

What must the sport do to attract more investment and interest from Joe Public?

Million dollar question. The dogs days in the spotlight seem to be over. We need to make the venue as though dogs are just one of many attractions at the venue. This would need major investment for restaurants, nightclub, shows, casinos and give value for money. More like an American project.

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

Couldn't argue with Savva or Lister.

Who is your best mate within greyhound racing and why?

Limited Ability (Vince). Best Mate full stop, people only have a small number of true mates in life and Limited is always there when you need him.

Which is your favourite-ever dog?

Black Banjo can't even remember why but loved it.

Which is your favourite track?

Walthamstow. I've been going for 39 years and love the place, life would not be the same without it.

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

Discipline.

Do you ever read the Betfair forum?

Yes.

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

Thats My Boy (me and Vince's pup), seriously Barnfield on Air or Irish pup Move on Byway.Do