Golden Easter Egg Greyhound Racing Heats Commence This Weekend
The prestigious Wheeler Kennels Golden Easter Egg, now in its 36th year, begins with nine heats scheduled at Wentworth Park on March 28. While the prize money of $300,000 for first place is less than the $1 million offered in the Million Dollar Chase, this event remains highly coveted by trainers and owners across New South Wales. The rich history and honour roll of the Easter Egg make it a standout target for many in the industry, with NSW trainers particularly aspiring to claim victory.
Most participants acknowledge the financial allure of the Million Dollar Chase, yet they express a strong desire and sentimental attachment to winning the Egg. The heats will determine qualifiers for the semi-finals on April 4, where winners and placegetters, along with the five fastest fourth-place finishers, will advance. The grand final is set for April 11, promising intense competition.
New Sensation Winner Sets Sights on Easter Egg
Trainers Jodie and Andy Lord celebrated another feature race success when Consigliere secured the Group 3 New Sensation at Wentworth Park on March 21. With adjustments to the Golden Easter Egg Carnival programming in 2025, Consigliere is now poised to compete in this major event. The greyhound has drawn box two in heat six for Saturday night's action. Originally a support race within the Carnival, the New Sensation was rescheduled to allow participants to enter both competitions, enhancing the racing calendar's flexibility.
Special Day for Veteran Trainer Neil Staines
Yass-based trainer Neil Staines, with 50 years of experience in greyhound racing, enjoyed a memorable day at Goulburn on March 20. He trained five winners on the card: Jungle Cobra, Bandit Blaze, Bandit Lynne, Royal Bandit, and Cawbourne Dollar. Although Staines once trained six winners in a single day at Canberra in the mid-2000s, this occasion was particularly special as his twin 14-year-old grandsons, Daniel and Cameron, assisted. Daniel handled the greyhounds by placing them in the boxes, while Cameron caught them post-race, creating a cherished family moment in the sport.
Tribute to Industry Figure John Richardson
The greyhound racing community mourns the loss of John Richardson, who passed away on March 20 after a long illness at age 79. Alongside his wife Judith, Richardson owned and trained Sunburnt Highway, known affectionately as "Billy," who holds the Wentworth Park record with 39 wins. Sunburnt Highway's career peaked with a victory in the $100,000 Masters Meteor in 2022. Richardson is survived by his wife Judy, son Neville, daughter Michelle, and seven grandchildren. The industry extends heartfelt condolences to his family during this difficult time.
This article was produced in partnership with Greyhound Racing NSW, highlighting key developments and stories from the regional NSW greyhound racing scene.
