Tommy a doggone legend
ONE of the stars of Newcastle Greyhound Stadium has retired a legend after running his 250th and final race.
Greyhound superstar Queenies Tommy, who has raced at the Byker track since 2016, is now looking forward to life in retirement.
Trained and looked after by Stuart Ray, six-year-old Tommy has enjoyed weekly trips to the racetrack and has had a happy and successful racing career.
To mark his retirement, Newcastle Greyhound Stadium named his last race ‘Happy Retirement Queenies Tommy 250 Up Trophy’ as a tribute to the dog who has brought so much joy to racing fans across the country.
Tommy was also presented with a special jacket, a velvet bed and a box of treats to commemorate his career.
Ian Walton, general manager at Newcastle Greyhound Stadium, said: “We were absolutely delighted to give Queenies Tommy the sendoff he deserves this week for his 250th race.
“He is an incredible dog, both on and off the track, and he is running as well now as he has ever done.
“Every time he arrived at the track with Stuart he jumped out of the van, tail-wagging, and you could just tell how much he just wanted to get out on the track to race.
“He has loved every second of his career and was a very familiar face at the track – our staff will miss him but we all wish him a long and happy retirement.” Tommy will be going home with New Forest-based Liz Fox, who has owned several greyhounds bred by Stuart – including Tommy’s mother, Queen Jeanie, who passed away recently aged 15.
He will enjoy retired life with his half-brother Queenies Three.
Mr Ray said: “Tommy is a wonderful greyhound and is a firm kennel favourite.
“It has been a delight to watch him achieve his potential and, having bred and schooled him myself, I have enjoyed being there every step of the way.
“It is wonderful to know he is off to have a great retirement with Liz where I know he will be treated like a king.”
Anyone interested in learning more about greyhounds or contacting their nearest GBGB-approved homing centre can visit www.gbgb. org.uk.
SUPERSTAR
GREYHOUND HONOURED AS HE TAKES RETIREMENT