SCOOBY DIAMOND added to Nathan Hunt’s memorable 2026 with success in the Coral Guys and Dolls Final at Romford – on another big-race night at the London Road venue.

Providing chief support to the Coral Coronation Cup Final which saw Bikini Bullet lead home Tiffield Tarquin in a crackerjack showpiece, the £5,000-to-the-winner Category Two decider also provided a great buckle as Scooby Diamond wore down Gallant Star (Phil Short) for a half a length success to claim Category Two gold.

Clocking 24.00sec (-10) for the 400m, Scooby Diamond was winning for owner and breeder Steve Noble and adding to her success last year in the Coral Romford Puppy Cup for a second major triumph at the busy Essex track.

The January 2024 daughter of Grangeview Ten and Scooby Duchess is a litter sister of Kent Plate champion Scooby The Lady and Hunt, winner last month of the David Lipsey Trophy – Trainers Judgement Night – at Monmore has been delighted how Scooby Diamond has progressed with him – and is particularly pleased for owner Noble.

“It’s a fantastic litter and it’s a pleasure to have Diamond in the kennel for Steve,” he said. “She absolutely loves Romford and always give her best – and she needed to on Friday.

“Diamond will go to Dunstall Park now for the bitches race on centenary night (July 24). It’s over 480m and will give us an idea how well she stays and gives her some experience there ready for the Oaks.”

Romford racing manager Mark Arkell added his praise, commenting: “Well done to Nathan and connections – again – after their Puppy Cup win here. She battled really well for victory, but fair play to Gallant Star also. The bitches definitely had the edge this year with a one-two.”

The Guys and Dolls is a unique event in which the dogs (Guys) and bitches (Dolls) run in separate heats and finals, before coming together for a grand final.

 

Photo: © Steve Nash