GREYHOUND RACING under rules returned to Wales on Friday as Valley staged its first GBGB-licensed meeting – with the Martin Thomas-trained Catunda Spirit having the distinction of being the first winner.

Making all in the opening A4 in 28.60sec for the 460m trip, the May 2021 daughter of Droopys Sydney and Murlens Maura led home favourite Vico Road (Leigh Williams) by three and a quarter lengths to make her mark at the former South Wales independent which has been taken over by Harlow promoter Dave Barclay.

Following track modifications and extensive trials at the venue, the SIS cameras were on hand to broadcast the first meeting which featured a mix of graded and open contests – with Rob Short’s Castell Nia winning the first open race.

Pacing up to lead at the bend, the August 2019 daughter of Out Of Range ASB and Got The Edge crossed the line just over a length clear of Harlow raider Lincoln Lawyer (Paul Clarke) in 16.33sec for the 260m sprint distance.

A later open race was won by Ballydorgan Gema who clocked a fastest-of-the-meeting 28.09sec for the 460m, the June 2021 daughter of Droopys Sydney and Madgies Wish racing away to win impressively from Splendid Mendax (Steven Howard).

The victory delighted his trainer Mike Burton, well known as a leading owner and breeder with his grandson George, but who has now taken out a trainer’s licence.

“After 42 years in a business, which I’m now out of, I can now pursue my lifelong interest in greyhound racing even more!” revealed Burton.

He added: “Myself and George had a common interest in the sport for many years going back to before Screen Critic made the Derby at Wimbledon in 2012 under the guidance of Kevin Hutton.

“Most people know we’ve been busy on the breeding scene for many years and have two litters to introduce in the new year – Newinn Taylor x Signet Storm and Magical Bale x Lights Out. We’re looking forward to the progress of both.

“It was great to support Valley’s first meeting. The track is a happy place which attracts lots of local dog people and I’m sure it’ll be a success. The Barclay family are very professional in their approach and that was reflected in the first meeting.

“The track is in superb condition and the new owners have completed a lot of safety work – Friday’s card was completed without incident.

“Malcom Tams, the outgoing owner, deserves credit for keeping greyhound racing going there since the 1970s.”