THE Maurice Newman Memorial Marathon could become a GBGB Category One competition next year after Night Time Danny became the inaugural winner of the event, staged in memory of the former owner, trainer and fundraiser, at Romford last week.

The Stephen Rayner-trained senior, landing his second major title at the Essex venue after plundering last year’s Coral Champion Stakes, finished best to deny Teds Dexter (Nathan Hunt) in an absolute thriller over the 750m trip after the local star set a furious pace up front to stretch his rivals out in the £3,000 GBGB Category Two event.

However, Night Time Danny, in arrears early, weaved his way through to launch a successful challenge off the last bend to win by a head from Teds Dexter and Untold Rupee (Carol Weatherall) in 47.28sec (+20).

Winner of the Galaxy Marathon at Oxford earlier this year, a delighted Rayner said: “He just never gives up, although I was never absolutely sure he’d get there in time. Thankfully he has and it’s great to win the first running of a competition held in memory of Maurice (Newman) who did so much fantastic work raising money for charity.”

John and Jo Fox, ambassadors for the Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity, said: “Great Ormond Street wanted to pass on our thanks once again to the family of Maurice for all the incredible work he did to raise money. It’s been a fantastic turnout which goes to show you the high regard Maurice was held in.”

Teddy Sheringham and Michael Watson, friends of Maurice Newman for many years given his strong links also with football and boxing, joined connections at the presentation for the big race – along with Maurice’s widow Vera who was brought to the track by Stan Kennett.

Former trainer Kennett organised the night in memory of his close friend and thanked those who also made it possible in terms of sponsors on the night – RPGTV, the Romford bookmakers, Star Sports and Graham Box and Bev Lochead. He also paid particular tribute to the Romford management.

“Karen McMillan at Romford could not do enough to help and I know could have had three times as many people in the Pavilion there – Maurice had a lot of friends who would love to have attended. I understand next year guests will take over the restaurant – they can take more numbers there – and hopefully it will be a Cat One race, too.

“Everyone I spoke to said it was a wonderful night. The perfect one to remember Mo.”