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History could be made at Newcastle Stadium on Thursday night when Tom Heilbron bids to become the first trainer to score an Arena Racing Company Northern Puppy Derby hat-trick.
Handler Trimdon first won the North East's premier puppy competition in 2022 with Freedom Alibi before kennel star Links Maverick made it a competition double exactly 12 months ago.
Now rising star Omuircheartaigh is Tom's sole representative in Thursday's £12,500 Grand Final. And victory would rewrite the record books as no manager has won the competition three times in a row in its 30-year history.
The Fomo Five Syndicate-owned April '22 dog is heading into the final at every opportunity, having won both of his heats – and Tom believes his greyhound may have even more to give when it counts most.
“We've been so happy with his progress since the competition started,” Heilbron said. “We have a good draw in trap three and Thursday's game could be the start.
“I think whichever greyhound takes the first turn in front will win – and Omuircheartaigh should do just that.
“It's a massive achievement just to get to a Division 1 final. So to win that trophy three times in a row would be huge for the kennel and everyone at home. It's a big week for the team with last year's champion Links Maverick also running in the Winter Derby Final at Monmore where we hope for another big run.”
The North East will also be represented in trap one with Jimmy Fenwick's Coppice Saphire running for owner Tony Brealey.
It would be a family occasion if Coppice Saphire finishes the race with her nose in front. Trainer Jimmy is supported by wife and assistant trainer Mel with daughters Hannah and Lauren plus son Callum working full time as a kennel at the Ashington family home.
“It's a really open final,” Jimmy said. “Our girl performed well in the heat and in the semi-final to reach this stage.
“The draw worked well for us as there is a lot of early pace on the card so getting a good position early will be key. I think the winner could come from anywhere, which shows how competitive the competition is.”
Thursday's final also features Diane Henry's Clona Curly and Coppice Ella who will represent Cotswolds trainer Kevin Hutton. Essex-based Maxine Locke will be making the long journey from the South East too with Droopys Eunice and Droopys Display.
Tickets for the Arena Racing Company Northern Puppy Derby can be booked via the Newcastle Stadium website now. Doors open at 18:00, with the first match of the evening due at 18:38. The final of the Northern Puppy Derby is scheduled for 20.44.
