IT was a fairy tale finish in more ways than one this afternoon (Wednesday October 19) when Joe Borg trained dog Promises Kept took out the 2016 Group Two Great Chase Final at the Meadows.
There were plenty of smiling faces, and even some tears as Faith Martin and her family were part of a $10,000 cheque presentation to McCallum Disability Services from Ballarat, who drew box six for the final.
Trainer Joe described it as ‘very emotional’ when the greyhound co-owned by Faith and her mother, won the race which its trainer has been preparing it for, for the last six weeks.
Promises Kept was owned by Faith’s husband, the late Darren Haffenden who bred and reared the talented greyhound.
Sadly, Darren passed away from pancreatic cancer at just 52 in May this year, but prior to this Faith made a promise to give this greyhound every opportunity to reach its full potential at the track.
“The story behind this dog is just incredible, and I am absolutely wrapped for the dog, and the family,” Joe said.
“He is a really hard chaser and the dog wants it, and that’s the difference.”
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Promises Kept took out the final in 30.09sec after a strong finish down the straight at The Meadows.
Still in shock from the impressive win, a spokesperson from McCallum Disability Services said they will have to think about what to put the $10,000 towards. The group have been participating in the event since it began 10 years ago.
All seven groups which drew a dog in the final will also walk away with $2,000.
An emotional Joe Borg after Promises Kept’s Great Chase victory
Promises Kept (six), Lightning Frank (one) and Electromagnetic (five).
Jeff Britton, Joe Borg and Mathew Wright with the 2016 Great Chase top three.
Rob Greenall and TAB’s Doug Freeman handing over the $10,000 cheque to McCallum Disability services.
