by Brennan Ryan – The Greyhound Recorder

Sandown Park general manager – racing Liz Whelan says preparations are in full swing as the famous Victorian venue gets set to host the 2026 GCA National Championships later this month.

States across the country will host their National Sprint and Distance Championship qualifiers this Thursday night, with all paths leading to Sandown Park for the two Group 1 features on Saturday night, August 29.

The nation’s top straight trackers will hit the famous Healesville straight venue on Friday, August 28, for the Group 3 National Straight Track Championship Final over 350 metres.

“This is the first time Sandown Park has hosted the Nationals since 2018,” Liz Whelan said.

“We are very excited to be hosting again this year and showcasing the best of what our state has to offer through the week.

“While racing is our main focus, the Nationals are always a wonderful opportunity for racing enthusiasts and administrators from across Australia to come together. This week is a time for making lifelong connections.”

Beyond the racing, the Sandown Club has organised various events for Nationals week, with highlights including the Nationals Symposium and the Greyhound Clubs Australia (GCA) Australian Greyhound of the Year awards.

Whelan says the club, along with Greyhound Racing Victoria (GRV), Greyhound Clubs Victoria (GCV), GCA, and Greyhounds Australasia (GA), has worked hard to organise Nationals week.

“I miss sleep!” joked Liz.

“We are really lucky to have David Simonette on board as the event organiser, and as everyone knows, when David is involved with events, you can expect them to be spectacular.

“At Sandown Park, people can expect an outstanding night of quality racing and entertainment.”

Sandown has played host to the Nationals multiple times, delivering unforgettable moments in racing history.

Sandown’s first National Sprint hosting in 1968 saw Princess Kerry take the crown, paving the way for greats like Lord Galaxy, Clover Duke and Scenic Spa and Sandi’s Me Mum, who claimed back-to-back titles.

Queensland star Flying Amy pulled off a stunning double in Victoria for Ron Ball in the 90s.

In 2018, West On Augie sprinted to glory, while Tornado Tears powered home in the Distance final.

“The National races have maintained their prestige on the calendar over the years,” Liz stated.

“There’s that sense of state pride; everyone wants the opportunity to represent their state.

“Trainers often tell me that there’s something extra special about the National anthem playing when they’re leading their dogs around to the boxes.”

The club also plans to have a special unveiling of a new addition to the Neil Brown Museum that night.

“While our Club embraces change and innovation, we have a special love of the events which are steeped in history,” said Liz.

“It’s an honour to be hosting this year’s GCA Nationals, and we look forward to reciprocating the amazing hospitality that other clubs have shown us over the years.”

Tickets are still available for the Nationals at Sandown Park via the link: Click Here