It is the season for dreams coming true and Frank Hancock will certainly raise a toast to that.
The stalwart trainer (pictured) received the best possible festive gift after his sprinter Laverne">Laverne produced a superb run to win $20,000-to-the-winner Northern Rivers Vet K9 Reproduction Maiden Classic Final (420m) at Lismore.
Laverne overcame a tricky box draw to seal a comfortable victory in Tuesday night’s final, one of the most lucrative maiden deciders in NSW.
For Hancock, who works out of the tiny Northern Rivers base of Spring Grove, the triumph certainly tasted sweet.
“I’ve been waiting months for this race,” he said. “To see it come off like this was something you dream of.
“I’m happy with the win and happy that I have something decent to go on with in 2015.
“I’m looking forward to next year now.”
Laverne was a $2.40 favourite for the final, one of the biggest races of the year in the Northern Rivers, after her impressive performance in the previous week’s heats.
She had drawn the potentially awkward box five but cruised home by more than six lengths in an impressive 23.95.
Watch a replay of Laverne's run here.
Two of Laverne’s littermates, Lady Abigail and Ilika, finished third and seventh respectively.
Hancock said he would likely keep Laverne racing at Lismore and she is likely to be back in action at next Tuesday’s meeting.
She is also likely to be tested at Brisbane’s Albion Park soon if she can maintain her impressive progression.
Hancock has produced some superb notable greyhounds over the years with his wife Edith and it looks like he has another bumper litter here.
“What’s my secret?” the 70-year-old said. “I just try to look after my pups with tender loving care.
“It’s hard work but it gets me out of bed every morning.
“Even just taking a greyhound like Laverne for a walk in the morning is a wonderful feeling.
“I can’t wait to carry on working with them.”
Meanwhile, racing continues at Lismore on Friday.
Another promising newcomer, Glenda Dart’s Banc De Kahn (race eight), looks the strongest bet of the day.
Others to watch include Western Dave (race two), Select Selwood in race seven and Ain’t Life Grand in the 10th and final race.
Racing starts at 12.40pm.
For Lismore Friday fields, form and expert picks, click here.
