Time Greyhound Nutrition Northern Flat: Fenwick targets second consecutive title
One of the most historic competitions in the racing calendar returns to Newcastle Stadium on Thursday as Round One of the Time Greyhound Nutrition Northern Flat begins.
First run in 1927, the Northern Flat has attracted a strong field of competitors all vying for the winning prize fund of £12,500, with the Grand Final set to take place on the evening of Thursday, July 25.
This year’s competition is backed by Time Greyhound Nutrition who came on board earlier this year as the official race partner for 2024.
Among those hoping to secure a place on the podium is Northumberland-based Jimmy Fenwick who’s aiming to replicate his success from last year with a trio of up-and-coming greyhounds looking to leave their pawprint on the racing scene.
Fenwick, who trained 2023 Northern Flat winner, Brookside Richie, enters this year’s competition with greyhounds Wicky Ned, Greenwell Ovett, and Ballymac Lineout.
Wicky Ned is emerging as a hot prospect, with two competition wins under his belt already this year. The winner of the Gymcrack and Puppy invitation at Towcester, Wicky Ned now steps out of Puppy class into the all-aged company on Thursday.
“The Northern Flat is one of the most prestigious events in the racing calendar,” said Jimmy. “It has always showcased some of the top talent so we’re looking forward to returning again this year.
“Ned is a lovely dog with a bright future ahead of him - we just need the luck with trap draws for him to leave his mark on the competition.
“Greenwell Ovett is another speedy young hound who has just turned two years old. We’ve been lucky with the draw to secure trap one which should make him a serious contender to progress through the competition.
“We’ve also seen some strong runs from Ballymac Lineout too. He’s been running particularly well over the last two months and goes into Thursday night in really great form and has plenty of potential in his career ahead.”
The current Newcastle track record is currently held by Droopys Shearer who clocked 27.90 seconds in September 2001.
Supported by wife Mel, with children Hannah, Lauren, and Callum, and kennel hands Jay and Sam, Jimmy’s team enjoyed a successful 2023, winning four Category One competitions, including the Northern Flat.
He added: “Winning this race last year was a great achievement for us and we’re hoping we can make it two for two.”
Round One of the Time Greyhound Nutrition Northern Flat begins on Thursday, July 11, with the first heat due to start at 18:37. Tickets, trackside packages and restaurant bookings are available to make online by clicking here.
Arena Racing Company Northern Flat – Round One:
Heat 1 - Greenwell Ovett, Ballymac lineout, Bramble Porter, Ballymac Wylder, Antigua Eagle, Skywalker Pele
Heat 2 - Wicky Ned, Romeo Crossfire, Barney the Boy, Jonny Whiskers, Vacant, Paisley Pirate
Heat 3 - Bramble Elvis, Brinkleys Magic, Slingshot Sam, Simpson Rocco, Vacant, Mickys Tribute
Heat 4 - Annadown Panther, Boylesports Gift, Moanteen Webby, Stormy News, Vacant, Delvin Cat
Heat 5 - Bogger Rambo, The Other Donny, Tonelagee, Droopys trouper, Romeo Jackson, Catunda Ciaran
Heat 6 - Untold Euro, Popper Flenky, Itsallabouted, Silverhill Ben, Jacktavern Vegas, Hazelhill Coco
