Post by BVADMIN on Aug 31, 2013 14:20:55 GMT
John Turner: stepped in generously
Leading owner steps in to save the Puppy Derby
THE Puppy Derby will continue to be the longest-running British greyhound competition staged without interruption at the same venue after Regulatory Finance Solutions, of whom John ‘Jaytee’ Turner is chief executive, yesterday confirmed a deal to back the event in 2013.
It is now to be staged alongside the later rounds of the William Hill St Leger (starts Saturday, October 26) at Wimbledon, with heats on Saturday, November 2, semis on Friday, November 8 and a £6,000 final – live on Sky Sports – on Tuesday, November 12.
The famous event, staged at the Plough Lane circuit every year since 1929 including during World War II, had seemed set to be consigned to the scrapheap having failed to make the reduced list of Sky Sports fixtures this year.
However, when that possibility became apparent earlier this month, Turner was quick to express an interest and, with Hills giving consent to a second feature alongside the headline St Leger final, negotiations were swiftly concluded.
Turner said: “The news that this iconic competition may not have gone ahead in 2013, its 85th year of running, through lack of support provided the impetus for RFS to become involved and we are delighted to announce our support and sponsorship of this prestigious competition.
“I’ve held a strong passion for greyhound racing over the years, both as an owner and spectator, and RFS is proud to be associated with this year’s Puppy Derby.
“This sponsorship comes on the back of the recent sponsorship RFS announced with Blackburn Rovers FC as official club sponsor and shows our commitment to supporting sport across diverse categories and communities.”
Wimbledon general manager Keith Hallinan said: “We’re all thrilled that such a historic competition as the Puppy Derby is to be staged this year and are very grateful to John Turner and RFS for stepping in. Thanks are also due to William Hill for agreeing to share their night.
“I’m sure the RFS Puppy Derby will be a tremendous competition as usual and, running alongside the William Hill St Leger, we’re set for a fantastic couple of weeks’ racing.”
Hills’ sponsorship manager Jennie Prest said: “We’re delighted with the news and hopefully we’ll see a lot of exciting youngsters who will go on to make a mark in next year’s £200,000 William Hill Derby at Wimbledon.”
GRA MD Clive Feltham added: “I’m delighted we’ve secured a sponsor to ensure the continuity of the famous event is maintained.”
