HELLO DIEGO made it back-to-back wins for Irish trainer Paul Hennessy when swooping to conquer on the run for home to claim gold – and an unbeaten run through the event – in Sunday’s BetGoodwin and JR Racing Maiden Derby Final at Towcester.

On an star-studded afternoon featuring the Time Greyhound Nutrition Juvenile Championship and a host of trial stakes for next month’s Star Sports/TRC English Greyhound Derby, the Maiden Derby fully played its part with a thrilling race before the Paul Hynes-owned runner struck gold in the £10,000 showpiece.

An October 2022 son of Jaytee Yankee and Darver Bridie, the Kilkenny and Shelbourne winner was always handy off the back of a smart exit as Ballybough Nutz (Maxine Locke) set the tempo with a best-of-meeting 4.01sec sectional.

In command down the far side, the Romford raider was in full flow and looked to have stolen a march. However, Burrows Charm (Jason Heath) and Val Tashadelek (Graham Holland) both showed great middle pace to move into contention, only to come together which cost both any chance of victory.

Rounding the last bend, Ballybough Nutz still held the advantage but wider on the track the strong-running Hello Diego was staying-on the better and hit the front on the run for the wire to land the spoils by a length from Ballybough Nutz and running-on Lennies Desire, another Hennessy-trained finalist, in 28.97sec (normal).

Representing the Hennessy family, Sarah Hennessy, daughter of dual English Derby-winning trainer dad Paul and mum Susan, said: “When I saw him come away and turn where he did I thought we’ve got a chance – he stays really well. Even so he’s had to work really hard to get there – it was a good race.

“It’s great to win this event again after Jaytee Etienne last year. We’re delighted for Paul (Hynes, owner) who’s been with us for as along as I’ve been here, I think! And it’s been great to have Lee (Craze, Lennies Desire’s owner) with us at the presentation. We’ve managed a first and third in the final which is great.

“We’ll be back here at Towcester next week and then for the English Derby itself. We’ve got a bigger team than last year, including Boylesports Bob (2024 Star Sports English Greyhound Derby runner-up) and will be giving it a go again!

“But thanks to everyone here today – and especially the sponsors. It’s been a great afternoon with some top-class greyhound racing. It’s been fantastic to be part of it.”