Heka a record-breaker as racing finally returns to Suffolk Downs

THERE was record-breaking action as Suffolk Downs staged its first meeting in some 15 months on Tuesday with Fabulous Heka taking one spot off the old 716m clock.

One of three winners on the night for trainer Patrick Janssens, who also scored with Yahoo Megan and Gundy, the St Leger finalist was in arrears early but powered through to lead on the final lap.

Pacesetter Capel Rose stuck to the task well, but Fabulous Heka went on to score by a shade over two lengths in 44.98sec (normal), just inside Muxton Lottie's previous 2023 mark of 44.99sec.

For his part, Janssens is delighted that Suffolk Downs is back, saying: "We need tracks like it, it's a brilliant place to start some greyhounds off before perhaps they go on to better things.

"It was certainly the making of Yahoo Megan for instance and I recall starting [Oaks finalist] Fabulous Aria in trials there just before the fire which closed it.

"I enjoyed the first meeting back and it was good to have a few winners. I think the fact that Fabulous Heka broke the track record indicates that it's going to be a little quicker than before but it's a very good racing surface they've laid down.

"Hopefully there will be the opportunity to go there regularly in the coming weeks and months."

Michelle Brown topped Janssens' achievement with a four-timer courtesy of Savana Cosmic, Savana Kilauea, Savana Macey and Savana Robbie, while there was a double for Jason Ray with Savana Pepsi and Savana Sprite.

Promoter Kevin Boothby said: “It’s the track that refuses to stay closed.  It was a great feeling to finally start racing again and to receive the support and best wishes from so many trainers and owners.

"The track has lost none of its friendly atmosphere and everyone is pulling together to make sure racing here can flourish.

"I recognise there is still a lot more work to do and last night has only spurred the motivation to get it done.  

"I’d also like to thank BetGoodwin - they are outstanding supporters of greyhound racing and I am delighted that once again they will be stepping in as track sponsors. Over the coming weeks work on branding will begin as we continue to fully reopen the track.”

Richard Brankley, head of greyhound operations for SIS, joked: “Does this count as the fourth track that Kevin has reopened?!!

"The track looks in great condition and has bedded in well. As to be expected there were a few first meeting teething problems that will need to be addressed.

"The reality is that tracks cannot race without media money and in the current financial climate there isn’t the luxury for promoters, trainers and owners to be running their dogs in off-service meetings where they don’t get paid. It’s a case of learning and adapting in the spotlight over the coming weeks.”