Berkeley dog trainer has high hopes ahead of major final 

Connor Smith, 30, is hoping his three-year-old star Home Bronagh has what it takes to reach the finals of Premier Greyhound Racing Oaks. 

After his father, Robert, died, Connor took over the family business and is hoping for a big run tomorrow, Saturday, October 21.

Along with his part-time staff, he and his mother Pat manage kennels in the Berkeley area that house 38 greyhounds providing around-the-clock care.

To date, Connor and his team are yet to reach a category one final – the highest level of UK greyhound racing. 

But that could change tomorrow when Home Bronagh runs in the semi-finals of the Premier Greyhound Racing Oaks at Perry Barr Stadium in Birmingham. 

Home Bronagh will need to place in the top two of Semi Final Three at 8.36pm to advance to the competition’s £20,000 final.

“It’s every greyhound trainer’s dream to reach the big finals,” said Connor. 

Connor Smith with his three-year-old star Home Bronagh (Image: Connor Smith)

“And the Oaks is one of the sport’s most prestigious events so reaching the semi-finals is an achievement in itself. 

“She (Home Bronagh) has great knowledge of the Perry Barr track and her running style means her times reflect her true ability.

“It’s a tough draw, and she’ll need to run a big race to qualify against some very talented greyhounds. 

“But she’s surprised us twice already in Rounds One and Two so there’s nothing to say she can’t do the same on Saturday.”

Since taking control of the kennel, Connor described greyhound racing as his life and says he wouldn’t change it for the world. 

His day at the kennels starts at 6.30am and will often finish past midnight once all walking, treatment, feeding and racing responsibilities are completed. 

Home Bronagh is due to take part in the semi-finals of the Premier Greyhound Racing Oaks tomorrow (Image: Connor Smith)

Connor said: “Once you’re invested in the sport, the passion never goes away. 

“I had the chance to take over properly when my dad passed away, and I haven’t looked back since.

“Being outdoors and working with animals is the life for me - I definitely couldn’t do a Monday to Friday job. 

“It’s long hours and hard work, but that’s what’s required to be a trainer.

“Greyhounds do not know it’s a Sunday, or that it’s Christmas Day. 

“You’ve got to be there for them 24/7 to keep them happy and healthy – that’s the number one priority.”

Home Bronagh is due to participate in Semi Final three tomorrow Saturday, October 21. 

Semi Final Three includes: Queen Georgia, Jet Stream Angel, Queen Shakira, Droopys Request, Allowdale Cazoo, Home Bronagh. 

Tickets are available from £7 via the Perry Barr website or can be purchased on the door. U18s can watch for £1.

Race one is due off at 6.26pm with the first Semi Final scheduled for 8.06pm.