The Gardens turned on a fantastic night of greyhound racing on Friday night, with two brilliant races in the finals of the National Derby and National Futurity.
The Group One events produced some very happy connections, with both sets of winning owner/trainers describing the night as their career highlight.
Reg Kay's quinella in the National Derby surpassed all other achievements in his glittering career.
Elite Blue Size claimed the $50,000 winner's cheque in a blistering time, while
Outa Credit stormed home to finish one length second.
"It’s the best night we've ever had in the sport, that's for sure. To have the two of them run so well and fly home in that time – which is not too far away from the record, which our dog Knocka Norris holds – it doesn't get any better," Kay said.
"I backed Outa Credit at good odds and he showed his ability once he got in the clear, but you just don't run dogs down when their going as fast as Elite Blue Size was. And I did have something on him too."
Kay fought back tears straight after the race, but the winning team behind National Futurity victor
Daydream couldn't avoid their emotions spilling over. Brett and Deborah May also lined up two dogs in their final, but it was the brilliant performance of Daydream that had them jumping for joy.
"It’s our first Group One race and our first win,” Deborah said. “We just can't believe it, it’s such a fantastic thing for us."
Brett added: "She's such a strong bitch and once she got into the clear I knew she'd win it. It’s great, we're really very happy."
The Maitland couple had yet to taste big race success, but it came in stunning fashion at The Gardens on Friday night. Their huge Futurity trophy is now sure to take pride of place at home.
"It will be in the bedroom for a while that's for sure, then we'll have it on display in the house,” Deborah said. “But we'll probably have a few drinks out of it first."
The Mays were both crying tears of joy after the race, and with the $50,000 winner's cheque in their keeping, they will now turn their attention to a very promising career for Daydream.
"She's only young obviously and she's only had 16 starts,” Brett said. “She is a really strong bitch and we hope she's going to keep improving in her racing too.
"We don't have anything particular in mind for her really but we won't rule anything out. It’s a very exciting time."
The Futurity win was a dream come true for the Mays, now their hoping Daydream can give them many more tears of joy in years to come.