Head Iton Ellis’s career finished after breaking his hock
Head Iton Ellis’s career came to an end on Monday at Nottingham. After winning the £10,000 Sussex Cup on 27 July, the three-year-old greyhound was expected to have a prosperous career, but it was cut short when he broke a hock during a Betfred Eclipse trial
stakes race.
“He has been a tremendous dog for us, given us so much fun, but his age [militates] against expecting him to come back,” said Steve Race, Iton Ellis’ trainer. “I’ve seen worse injuries, but it looks like a definite break, and we’ll take him back to the
vets in the morning.”
The race was won by Westmead Osprey, a 5-1 long-shot, with a time of 30.45 seconds. Iton Ellis was the race favourite at 5-4.
It was a busy race with a number of strong racers, and Iton Ellis wasn’t the only hound to encounter some bumping during the race. Tudor Prince, who finished in fifth place, was crowded on the first bend, and All That Noise and Reluctant both baulked in
the same place.
Iton Ellis had similar trouble on the first bend, and it was clear by the time he got to the second bend that something was wrong. He did not finish the race and was looked at immediately by the track vet.
His racing career is over, but Race is hoping for Iton Ellis to start a new career as a stud.
“I imagine we’ll be looking to try him at stud either in Ireland, or keep him here,” said Race.
Taking second place in the race was Deanridge Rage, just a ½ length behind Ospery. In third was the 16-1 longshot, All That Noise, and 2¼ lengths behind him was Reluctant in fourth.
The Betfred Eclipse will continue with its trial stakes, accepting entries until 11am Thursday. The opening round of heats will begin Monday 29 November.
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