The Greyhound Board of Great Britain is pleased to announce that 2019’s BAGS sponsored Kennelhand of the Year is Hannah Prince, Head Kennelhand to Gerry Ballentine, Perry Barr.

This prestigious award is presented to one outstanding kennelhand who shows impressive commitment to their work and who goes above and beyond to provide the highest standards of care to the greyhounds in their charge.

Hannah’s dedication and enthusiasm were showcased in her nominations which praised the young kennelhand for her tireless efforts, professionalism and inspiring work ethic. With both parents having been involved in training at Monmore, Hannah has been around greyhounds her whole life and has been intrinsic to the Ballentine kennel’s British breeding operation.

The judging panel for the 2019 award comprised of broadcaster Tanya Stevenson, GBGB Welfare and Integrity Manager Duncan Gibson, Head of Greyhound Trust Harvel (Croftview Kennels) Cheryl Miller and GBGB Quality Manager Amanda Duplock. They were particularly impressed by Hannah’s nomination from the Racing Office at Perry Barr which outlines her far-reaching, positive impact beyond the kennels.

Nominations commended Hannah for the devotion she shows to her greyhounds, who are the subject of many heartfelt posts on her social media. Comments included:

“Hannah spends all her working hours tending to the needs of the greyhounds under her care at Gerry’s kennel. Hannah has spent virtually all her life around greyhounds, and like a lot of us, the sport is in her blood, with welfare absolutely her number one priority. Hannah is a shining example to others.” 

Speaking about Hannah’s award, Trainer Gerry Ballentine, said:

“Hannah is an excellent worker. She looks after everything at the kennels, is dedicated to her work and gives 100% every day. She really is one in a million and we’re very lucky to have her.”

This year’s notable runner-up positions were awarded to Michael Barker, Kennelhand to Barry O’Sullivan (Central Park) and Ria Tillet, Assistant Trainer to Patrick Janssens (Central Park). Both individuals carry out their respective responsibilities wholeheartedly and are highly deserving of this recognition.

Hannah will receive her trophy and prize money of £500 at the GBGB Awards on Sunday 26th January, with the runners up receiving £250 each.

Duncan Gibson, GBGB Welfare and Integrity Manager and panel judge, said:

“Congratulations to Hannah and our runners-up for the outstanding contributions they have made to our sport. The judging panel was thoroughly impressed by the quality of the nominations we received this year which showcased the brilliant work being done by people across the industry. Hannah really is a shining example for all and we look forward to following her progress in the sport.”

Thank you to everyone who submitted nominations this year. If your nomination was not successful, please do try again in future years.