< Back A THANK YOU FROM DON JENSEN Dec 28, 2020 Hello, It is hard to believe that greyhound racing has ended at Derby Lane after 95 years. I was fortunate to be asked to write a pari-mutuel column for the former St. Petersburg Times, beginning in 2004. Although my background was in thoroughbred racing – including a one-year stint as the publicity director at Charles Town Races in West Virginia – I welcomed the opportunity to learn and write about dog racing. My first column for the newspaper involving Derby Lane dogs came on Oct. 30, 2004, featuring a Floyd & Porter greyhound named MN’s Island Anne, who has just missed starting her career by going up the graded ladder undefeated until suffering a Grade A defeat. Trained by the late Cal Holland Jr., those first four wins turned out to be only half of the eight total victories that MN’s Island Anne would register during her lifetime from 49 races. Perhaps, it was fitting that I would begin writing on the Derby Lane (and Tampa Greyhound Track) dogs in that manner. My goal primarily was to spread the wealth of publicity wherever possible. In the past 17 years, I covered All-Americans, Rural Rube champions, Flashy Sir winners, stakes titlists and meet win champions. But when the opportunities arose, I got as much enjoyment to write about dogs and kennels that were not in the spotlight as much as others. I was fortunate to see the final race today at Derby Lane, more than 13 years after seeing the final race at Tampa Greyhound Track on Aug. 18, 2007. I want to thank EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU – kennel operators, trainers, handlers, greyhound owners and track personnel – for treating me respectfully in a way that I’ll never forget. Dealing with the media can be challenging, but I was brought up in the newspaper business with an old-school beliefs, and I always tried to maintain that throughout my coverage while showing respect to the person whom I was speaking with. I quickly became aware of how much care and effort you put into the greyhounds, which required your attention seven days a week on a yearly basis. My best moments, without a doubt, were covering you on stakes championship performances. Many dressed nicely, and the smiles and congratulations were contagious. But as I look back, the little things probably stand out to me just as much. I remember driving to Virginia from Florida one Christmas week when a kennel operator called to wish me Merry Christmas. Then one Saturday evening while dining at a Tampa restaurant, I received a call from another kennel operator who had won a rare kennel championship and wanted to thank me for writing about it. Of course, there were other calls to my residence from kennel personnel thanking me for writing on their athletes, emails that reflected the same thing, and of course, all of the camaraderie at the track. Except for reflecting on my first article, I prefer not to singularly mention any particular kennel-related personnel for fearing of overlooking anyone. But for all the articles I wrote, none would have been possible without your cooperation and trust that I would reflect your thoughts, and bring fair and unbiased coverage to your sport. There are different stages in life that we go through, and for nearly two decades, you became part of my life. Some of the individuals who I met 17 years ago are no longer with us, and I have not forgotten their contributions as well. As we all go into the next chapter of our respective lives, I want to thank you again for your cooperation and friendship that we developed through the years. I feel blessed to have added this chapter in my life, and it is one that I’ll always appreciate and never forget. My prayers are with all of you, and wishing that you find as much happiness as I have in this now-concluded chapter of my life. Again, thank you for letting me be part of your respective lives. Sincerely, Don Jensen Tampa Bay Times Previous Next

< Back Wheeling Hot Dogs ( as of January 27, all races 5/16 unless otherwise noted ) Stan Pawloski Jan 27, 2020 Jacobs Racing Kennel’s JSK Roulette has four wins and three seconds in her last seven Grade AA trips for trainer Louise Strong. Patriot/Taplin Kennel’s CTW Tira Misu has won five out of her last six outings (B, AA) for trainer Joe Otto. Kennel-mates GF La Duena has captured three out of her last four Grade TAA 3/16 races while CBJ Fly Blush has two wins and a second in her last three starts (B, A). Wayne Ward Kennel’s WW Butterworth has three straight Grade AA victories for trainer Ron Otto. Lester Raines Kennel’s JS Drinkmepretty has won three out of her last four Grade AA trips for trainer Joel Roden. Blanchard Kennel’s High Wire Willy has captured three out of his last four Grade TAA 3/16 starts for trainer Sarah Blanchard. Kennel-mate L’s Luv It has two wins and two seconds in her last four Grade AA races. Rangel Kennel’s PJ Felicia has won three out of her last four 3/8 outings (TC, B, TAA) for trainer Alex Hall. Charter Kennel’s PJ Rich The Kid has captured three out of his last four starts (C, B, A) for trainer Jay Falcone. Abrahamson Kennel’s Arkans Honshu has won three out of her last four races (C, B, A) for trainer Tom Engle. Imark Kennel’s Allday Emma has captured three out of her last four trips (C, B, A) for trainer Scott Purdy. Previous Next

< Back Wheeling Hot Dogs ( as of August 28, all races 5/16 unless otherwise noted ) Stan Pawloski Aug 28, 2023 Charter Kennel’s FGF Duke has won five straight Grade AA races for trainer James Campbell. Kennel-mates JSP Money Maker (AA) and LK’s Konatz (B, A) have two wins and a second in their last three starts while Oshkosh Edward has back-to-back Grade AA victories. Steve Sarras Kennel’s Good As It Gets has three Grade AA wins in a row for trainer Mike Holguin. Kennel-mate Florentine has two victories and two seconds in her last four Grade AA trips. Lester Raines Kennel’s JS Xtra Fancy has back-to-back Grade TAA 3/8 wins for trainer Joel Roden. A Ray Kennel’s AMF Gotworktodo has two straight Grade AA victories for trainer Joe Palmer. Code Red Kennel’s Arroyo Ruger has two wins and a second in his last three Grade TAA 3/16 races for trainer Tom Engle. Imark Kennel’s Imark Ava (C, B, A) and Imark Boris (M, D, C) have won three out of their last four outings for trainer DiAnn Derr. Wayne Ward Kennel’s General Petersen has back-to-back victories (B, A) for trainer Ron Otto. Previous Next

< Back Blanchard captures 2023 Wheeling kennel championship Stan Pawloski Feb 12, 2024 Back on top. After three straight years finishing runner up to Lester Raines in the kennel standings at Wheeling Island, the Blanchard Kennel roared to an early lead in January 2023 and never looked back in winning the kennel championship. It was the second Wheeling kennel crown for James Blanchard after capturing the championship back in 2019. The kennel was booked at Wheeling in July 2017. The Blanchard Kennel amassed 640 victories in 2023, the most wins at Wheeling Island since the ZEZ Kennel posted 645 wins in 1999 and 659 victories in 2000. Charter Kennel took runner up honors to Blanchard with 565 wins while defending kennel champion Lester Raines finished third with 540 victories last year. Charter made a run at Blanchard in October – cutting the lead to 15 wins – but Blanchard caught fire in the last two months of the racing season, posting 125 victories to pull away. For Blanchard, their goal every year is the top spot in the standings. “It’s a great feeling and exciting to win the kennel championship after finishing runner up the last three years. We have an extremely dedicated team who love what they are doing and worked hard for it which makes it very special,” Blanchard said. “To win a championship, it takes a combination of a lot of talented greyhounds, but you got to have some luck along the way. I am so appreciative of everyone who had a hand in our success last year.” Next in line behind Blanchard (640), Charter (565) and Lester Raines (540) in the final 2023 standings were Steve Sarras (482), Jacobs Racing (432), Imark (394), Code Red (384), Wayne Ward (346), Patriot/Taplin (323), Xtrem Hess Racing (313), Rangel (255), A Ray (184) and Brad Boeckenstedt (149). The A Ray Kennel ceased operations at the end of October while the Brad Boeckenstedt Kennel pulled out at the end of June. The Blanchard Kennel had 15 greyhounds reach double figures in wins last year, including three in the racetrack’s top five – track co-win leader Artex Pumbaa (22), Tenacity (21) and Arkans TMC Athos (18). “Artex Pumbaa is so consistent and tries hard every race. He can break on top or come from behind. Tenacity is very talented and may be the fastest greyhound in the kennel. She needs to get position early,” Blanchard said. “Arkans TMC Athos is another consistent greyhound with a big-time rush to the turn. He will be back this year, after some time off. Anytime these three weigh-in, there’s a good chance of winning.” Other double-digit winners for the Blanchard Kennel were Easi Utley (17), Arkwild B Soleil, About To Rock, BNC R Rooney and TR Hill (13 each), Arkans Pride and Arma Guiness (12 each), Ark RB Heyward, Arkans Lust, Arkwild B Shalom, TMC’s Zoomzoomba and Easi Gil (10 each). Seven greyhounds had nine victories each – Arkans So Long, Artex Kusapin, Artex Suave, JW Bon Jovi, Kabluwie, Stars Align and CNS Kansasthrill. Blanchard praised his fellow Wheeling kennel crew members – trainer Chris Maynard, Kayla Purdy, Jeff Bowers and his wife, Sarah Blanchard. Maynard worked for the Blanchards at their Florida bookings since 2013 before coming to Wheeling in February 2022, after taking some time off after the Florida tracks closed at the end of 2020. “I was impressed with Chris (Maynard) when he worked for my dad (Jim Blanchard) at Orange Park in Florida. I thought he had a great future and he wanted to learn,” Blanchard said. “Kayla (Purdy) is great with the greyhounds and always puts the dogs above everything. Jeff (Bowers) recently joined our team and has been a great addition. We are a tight-knit greyhound family. At the end of the day, the dogs, our love for them and this sport, is what truly makes our operation what it is.” Three greyhound owners/breeders – Tracy Wildey, Rachelle Henry and Darren Henry – play significant roles in the Blanchard Kennel operation, contributing to the kennel’s success. “They are our core. We have a system, and they are a vital piece of the puzzle,” Blanchard said. “They are part of the breeding, raising and training. We couldn’t do it without them.” Several other owners race their greyhounds out of the Blanchard Kennel at Wheeling. They include Jim Rosga, Brian Brady, Allyn Shaw, Joe Frey, Ray Wong, Mike Pence, Jeff Junk, Tom Sugahara, Eddie McDonald, David Strong, CNB Racing (Trish Cescolini and Shannon Lorenz), Kim Sessions, Cathy Cameron, Warp Drive Kennel (Tabbatha Couch and Jayme Gordon) and Christine Johnson-Procopis. As for 2024, Blanchard expects another competitive fight for the top spot in the kennel standings. “It’ll be a battle, but we love a challenge,” Blanchard said. “Right now, our kennel is a little top-grade heavy. We’re hoping we have a good group of pups come in this year.” Handling the greyhounds is a passion for Blanchard. “I’ve been around greyhounds my whole life. It’s what I want to do,” Blanchard said. “Each day I wake up and can’t wait to get to the kennel.” In addition to garnering the most wins in 2023, the Blanchard Kennel was tops in seconds (603), thirds (508) and fourths (510). Blanchard and Charter were the leaders in winning percentage with 16 percent. Next in line were Lester Raines, 15 percent; Steve Sarras and Imark, 13 percent. Blanchard and Charter led all kennels with a 44 percent trifecta mark. Lester Raines and Steve Sarras were next with 41 percent. Topping the charts in starts was Blanchard (3,915) followed by Lester Raines (3,570) and Steve Sarras (3,507). Artex Pumbaa, captain of the 2023 all-Wheeling team, was the anchor of the Blanchard Kennel last year with a track-leading 22 wins. Previous Next

< Back Caliente Kennel Wins for Grade A / 546 -Dec 10-16 Patricia Saul Dec 18, 2023 Newport captured four Grade A wins from Cw Esperanza, Sailing Doodle’s, Silver Thread and Laughter N Tears. Trainer Tyler Sadulski Rio Grande Kennel took four wins with Gonz Califia (2), Gonz Xibalba and Amy SeldomFound. Trainer Marcos Gonzalez Racers capturing one Grade A win were Atx Hyperboy (La Fiesta, Trainer Bobby Mir), Ww Creek (Los Taxis, Trainer Vicente Lopez) and WW Ellery Queen (Tijuana, Trainer Aldara Fuentes). Previous Next

< Back NGA Spring Nationals 2025 Monday Results Apr 14, 2025 Spring Meet 2025 Monday’s Results PDF Download SPRINT Stake Race 1 ML SIDE BY SIDE 2 1 1-2 1-1 1-1 30.58 DETERMINED BL COMMUNITY 1 3 2 2 2-1 30.66 BOLD BID SHELTON (A-47) 4 4 3 3 3-2 30.73 SLOW BREAK WW DANCE PARTY (A-48) 5 2 4 4 4-2 1/2 30.76 EARLY CONTENDER LAWRENCE SMITH OR JACOBS RACING KENNEL, (GOLD STANDARD-FIREY CANBE BOTT) Race 2 ML SIDE HUSTLE 2 1 1-2 1-2 1-1 1/2 30.61 ALL THE WAY GLS YES I DID 1 3 3 2 2-1 1/2 30.72 RAIL EFFORT BL BIG RED 4 2 2 3 3-3 30.83 GOOD TRY ALLON Z 5 4 4 4 4-4 30.91 FOLLOWED PACE LAWRENCE SMITH OR JACOBS RACING KENNEL, (GOLD STANDARD-FIREY CANBE BOTT) Race 3 GLS UNCLE SID 1 2 1-2 1-3 1-5 30.62 DREW OUT ADH TOP SECRET 2 3 3 3 2-5 30.99 MIDTRACK BID ML SLEEK SIDE 5 1 2 2 3-6 31.03 SAVED GROUND VAMOS 4 4 4 4 4-14 1/2 31.64 TARDILY AWAY LOUISE OR GREG STRONG, (KONOMI-GLS NATALIE C) Race 4 ML SIDE ACTION 2 1 1-4 1-4 1-2 1/2 30.64 OUTSIDE DRIVE GLS LITTLE RONA 4 3 3 2 2-2 1/2 30.83 LATE RUSH WW SOLID ROCK (A-50) 5 4 4 4 3-7 31.12 EVEN PACE JOHNNY CASH (A-49) 1 2 2 3 4-12 1/2 31.52 THREAT EARLY LAWRENCE SMITH OR JACOBS RACING KENNEL, (GOLD STANDARD-FIREY CANBE BOTT) SENIOR 1 Stake Race 5 WW POP COPY (A-2) 2 4 2 2 1-1 30.96 DESPITE TROUBLE WW FILM STAR (A-3) 5 2 1-3 1-3 2-1 31.04 SET GAME PACE ML AT MY SIDE 4 1 3 3 3-3 31.19 RAIL THREAT GETSO'S BEATRICE (A-1) 1 3 4 4 4-20 32.38 BUMPED 1ST TURN JAWS RACING, LLC, (MULBERRY GUS-WW LIVE TO TELL) Race 6 WW WORKIN ON IT (A-6) 4 1 2 2 1-2 1/2 30.83 STRETCH RALLY TURBO ROWAN (A-5) 2 2 1-1 1-2 2-2 1/2 31.01 GAMELY, OUTSIDE WW GRIM REAPER (A-4) 1 3 3 3 3-11 1/2 31.64 EVENLY WW STRAITSHOOTER (A-7) 5 4 4 4 4-13 31.75 ON INSIDE JAWS RACING, LLC, (MULBERRY GUS-WW LIVE TO TELL) Race 7 WW U BELONG TOME (A-8) 1 2 1-2 1-3 1-NK 30.93 HELD GAMELY WW REKINDLE (A-10) 4 3 3 3 2-NK 30.96 ALMOST UP TURBO MACK (A-9) 2 1 2 2 3-2 31.07 LATE THREAT JAWS RACING, LLC, (TOP OF THE PILE-WW SWIFT HEART) Race 8 WW MANY BLESSING (A-13) 4 1 2 2 1-4 1/2 30.97 STRETCH RUSH TURBO MARIA (A-12) 2 2 1-1 1-2 2-4 1/2 31.29 SET GAME PACE WW THE WASP (A-11) 1 3 3 3 3-5 31.34 OFF LATE JAWS RACING, LLC, (KONOMI-WW SMOKIN HOT) SENIOR 2 Stake Race 9 CD NEW START (A-17) 5 1 3 3 1-1 31.23 FINAL STRIDES WW ALREADY GONE (A-16) 4 2 2 1-1 2-1 31.31 WINNING EFFORT TURBO RALPH (A-14) 1 3 1-1 2 3-7 1/2 31.75 EARLY LEADER WW LONG HAUL (A-15) 2 4 4 4 4-8 1/2 31.81 OFF LATE CHARLES E. DUNCAN, (KONOMI-WW SMOKIN HOT) Race 10 TURBO RYDER (A-19) 2 1 1-3 1-5 1-2 1/2 31.07 BOX TO WIRE WW RENEWED (A-18) 1 2 2 2 2-2 1/2 31.24 CLOSING WW HEAD TO TOP (A-20) 4 3 3 3 3-4 1/2 31.37 SLOW START EDWARD F. GARDNER, JR. OR NORMAN RADER, (SWITZLER JAMMIN-TURBO RACHEL ONE) Race 11 WW PUDDIN PAY (A-21) 1 1 1-5 1-7 1-9 1/2 31.04 ALL ALONE WW CHARGE IT (A-22) 2 3 3 3 2-9 1/2 31.70 INSIDE TRY TURBO MABEL (A-23) 4 2 2 2 3-17 1/2 33.26 WEAKENED JAWS RACING, LLC, (SHOW ON THE ROAD-WW JESSIESPAYDAY) Race 12 WW COLD AS YOU (A-24) 1 1 1-3 1-4 1-2 31.17 NEVER HEADED WW GOOD INTENT (A-26) 4 3 3 3 2-2 31.33 LATE DRIVE TURBO YAHOO (A-25) 2 2 2 2 3-5 31.52 FOLLOWED PACE JAWS RACING, LLC, (TOP OF THE PILE-WW SWIFT HEART) SENIOR 3 Stake Race 13 ML SIDE POCKET 4 2 2 2 1-1 1/2 31.20 FAST FINISH WW BLACK MAMBA 2 3 3 3 2-1 1/2 31.30 STEADY THREAT WW MAZAPAN (A-28) 5 1 1-2 1-1 3-2 31.35 PACE TO STRETCH WW GAME AHEAD (A-27) 1 4 4 4 4-4 1/2 31.51 WELL UP LAWRENCE SMITH OR JACOBS RACING KENNEL, (GOLD STANDARD-FIREY CANBE BOTT) Race 14 WW ACE (A-32) 5 2 1-1 1-2 1-4 1/2 30.98 FULL CONTROL TURBO REID (A-31) 4 4 3 2 2-4 1/2 31.30 DESPITE TROUBLE WW JUST U WAIT (A-30) 2 3 4 3 3-5 1/2 31.37 ROUGH TRIP WW SKIPPIN BYE (A-29) 1 1 2 4 4-9 1/2 31.65 CLOSE QUARTERS JAWS RACING, LLC, (JS FLAMIN ACE-WW ZAZO) Race 15 WW FAVORITE GAL (A-34) 2 2 3 2 1-5 31.33 LATE CHARGE TURBO MASON (A-33) 1 1 1-5 1-5 2-5 31.69 SET GAME PACE WW SHAKE IT OFF (A-35) 4 3 2 3 3-8 31.90 EVEN PACE JAWS RACING, LLC, (SHOW ON THE ROAD-WW JESSIESPAYDAY) Race 16 WW AT THE TOP (A-38) 4 2 1-3 1-5 1-5 31.06 EASILY WW ABOVE GROUND (A-36) 1 1 3 2 2-5 31.43 MIDTRACK LATE TURBO VISA (A-37) 2 3 2 3 3-12 1/2 31.86 NO FACTOR JAWS RACING, LLC, (ROB GRONKOWSKI-WW ALL ALLISON) SENIOR 4 Stake Race 17 GLS GIVE THANKS 4 4 4 2 1-4 1/2 31.60 DESPITE TROUBLE TURBO CRY (A-41) 5 1 1-4 1-4 2-4 1/2 31.91 SET GAME PACE GETSO'S ASHLEY (A-39) 1 2 2 3 3-4 1/2 31.93 GOOD TRY WW TOKIO (A-40) 2 3 3 4 4-5 31.95 CROWDED EARLY LOUISE OR GREG STRONG, (SHOW ON THE ROAD-GLS MUSTARD) Race 18 TURBO TRIP (A-43) 2 1 1-4 1-5 1-3 30.93 NEVER HEADED WW TROMPO (A-42) 1 3 3 2 2-3 31.16 LATE CHARGE ANDIAMO 4 2 2 3 3-10 1/2 31.65 EARLY FACTOR EDWARD F. GARDNER, JR. OR NORMAN RADER, (YAHOO OMAR-TURBO RAVENED) Race 19 IKUZO 1 2 1-2 1-3 1-2 31.17 HANDILY WW CHARRO (A-45) 4 3 2 2 2-2 31.30 PRESSED LEADER GETSO'S SOPHIE (A-44) 2 1 3 3 3-23 1/2 32.83 WELL BACK ROBERT HARDISON, (SHIMA SHINE-DEAD TO ME) Race 20 LET'S GO 4 1 1-4 1-5 1-7 31.03 EASY WIN GLS YNOT ME 1 3 2 2 2-7 31.54 RAIL BID GETSO'S OSTEG (A-46) 2 2 3 3 3-23 32.67 NEVER UP ROBERT HARDISON, (SHIMA SHINE-DEAD TO ME) https://www.ngagreyhounds.com/_files/ugd/85afa5_8a725708ffcc4dec82be6afb227c8302.pdf Previous Next

< Back WVGOBA OPEN SPRINT SEMI FINALS SHAKEDOWN AT TRISTATE Patricia Saul May 22, 2023 After the quarter-final rounds on Thursday, 33 greyhounds were eliminated from the $65,000 WVGOBA Open Sprint at Tri State. On Tuesday evening, May 23, heading into the semi-finals, 16 greyhounds remain as contenders in Races 4 and 6 with starting post time at 6:00 PM EST. Competing in Race 4 are JA’s Henry Ford, CET Daryl, RS’s Penny Lane, CG’s Roadrunner, CET Dirty Dilly, Mac’s Sugar Pie, GLS Blondie and CG’s Miss Muffet. Competing in Race 6 are GF Steel Horse, CET Bill, CG’s Red Ryder, GLS Daisy Dot, CET Negan, JA’s Dupont, CG’s Bo Peep and Mac’s New York. Littermates competing: CG’s Roadrunner, CG’s Bo Peep, CG’s Red Ryder and CG’s Miss Muffet (Jax Oxford - CG's Lady Bug) JA’s Henry Ford and JA’s Dupont (Jax Yardley - Jax Freida) CET Daryl and CET Negan (Kiowa Myth - Cet Baby Boo) The Open Sprint Stakes championship is scheduled for Saturday, May 27. Accumulated points for the Semi-Finals: 36 points: CET Dirty Dilly (CET) 31 points: CG's Roadrunner (Abrahamson) 30 points: CG's Bo Peep (Abrahamson) 28 points: CET Negan (CET) 27 points: GF Steel Horse (Lomax) 26 points: JA's Dupont (Abrahamson) 24 points: RS's Penny Lane (Lester Raines) 22 points: JA's Henry Ford (Abrahamson) 21 points: Cet Daryl (CET), Mac's Sugar Pie (McMillon/Ward), Mac's New York (Mc Millon/ Ward), GLS Blondie (JS) 20 points: CG's Red Ryder (Abrahamson), GLS Daisy Dot (JS), CG's Miss Muffet (Abrahamson) 19 points: CET Bill (CET) Previous Next

< Back NEW KENNEL AT WHEELING Stan Pawloski Aug 17, 2021 Joe Fusaro, Jr. loves greyhound racing. It’s in his blood and it’s in his heart. Fusaro got into the business in 2004 at age 36 when he purchased his first greyhound, but he was hooked on the sport as a youth in Colorado. His great uncle, Paskey Teto, had a greyhound training farm near Mile High Kennel Club and his father, Joseph Fusaro, Sr. has been a greyhound handicapper his whole life. Now Fusaro is entering into a new greyhound venture – kennel operator. For nearly 10 years, Fusaro has been one of the major suppliers of greyhounds for the Tom Engle-trained Abrahamson Kennel at Wheeling Island. With Neal Abrahamson stepping aside as kennel operator at the end of June, Fusaro decided to take the plunge. The new kennel is called Code Red, named after the Fusaro-owned greyhound FF Code Red – a finalist in two Southland sprint stakes in 2012-13 and the Hollywood World Classic in 2013. Engle will continue to train the kennel. “It’s very exciting anytime you own a business for the first time – I’m super excited as well as nervous. I raced greyhounds out of the Abrahamson Kennel for eight or nine years, so I’ve gotten to know Tom Engle very well,” Fusaro noted. “I know, trust and believe in Tom (Engle) and wouldn’t have made the decision to take over the kennel if not for him being the trainer. I’ve considered opportunities to own a kennel at other tracks and turned them down.” Engle is looking forward to teaming up with Fusaro. “I’ve known Joe (Fusaro) for about 10 years and we have a great relationship. I know he’ll put his heart and soul into the kennel – he loves greyhound racing,” Engle said. “I’m grateful for Joe’s support and appreciate his confidence in having me handle his new kennel.” The Code Red Kennel will be made up of a lot of Fusaro’s own greyhounds as well as leased racers from several sources. “In any industry, you need to build relationships and I hope those connections I’ve made (owners of leased greyhounds) will help strengthen our kennel,” Fusaro said. “I’m still breeding so I’ll have a lot of my own greyhounds in the kennel as well.” Fusaro has set some goals for the kennel. “I want to be a top five kennel, but first we have to figure out what we need to do to finish in the top five. Ultimately, we want to get there and win a kennel championship,” Fusaro said. “One of the things I love about greyhound racing is the competition. It’s exciting, and to win races is fun.” It’s been a learning experience for Fusaro since taking over the kennel. “I’m not a greyhound trainer, so I rely on and trust my team. I understand the business end and realize there’s ups and downs in the industry,” Fusaro said. “Hopefully there will be more ups and it turns into a successful endeavor.” In time, Engle feels Code Red will be a competitive kennel at Wheeling Island. “With Joe’s contacts and my contacts, I think we will have a pretty competitive kennel,” Engle said. “It’s going to take some time, but I’m excited.” Previous Next

< Back Wheeling Hot Dogs ( as August 8, all races 5/16 unless otherwise noted ) Stan Pawloski Aug 8, 2022 Xtrem Hess Racing Kennel’s Xtrem Kitty Cat has won four out of her last five outings (A, AA) for trainer Jill Spicer. Charter Kennel’s Barts Worthwhile has captured three out of her last four Grade AA starts for trainer James Campbell. Kennel-mates Jack Parkman has two wins and two seconds in his last four Grade AA races, Oshkosh Koda has two victories and a second in his last three Grade AA trips and JSP Feelthesting has back-to-back wins (A, AA). A Ray Kennel’s Mega Felipe has back-to-back wins (A, AA) for trainer Joe Palmer. Steve Sarras Kennel’s CET Musketeer has two straight victories (A, AA) for trainer Jay Falcone. Blanchard Kennel’s Artex Tornado has three wins in a row (C, B, A) for trainer Sarah Blanchard. Patriot/Taplin Kennel’s Shadow Ban has back-to-back victories (B, A) for trainer Joe Otto. Code Red Kennel’s Blast Off Speed has two wins in a row (B, A) for trainer Tom Engle. Previous Next

< Back $100,000 MOUNTAINEER CLASSIC SET TO BEGIN AT WHEELING Sep 29, 2021 Wheeling Island’s featured stakes race of the year – the $100,000 Mountaineer Classic – kicks off Sunday afternoon, Oct. 3, with a field of 78 sprinters entered. Last year’s winner CG’s Penny Shoe (Abrahamson Kennel) and runner up TNT Free Falling (Patriot/Taplin Kennel) are not in this year’s stakes but two finalists from 2020 are entered – third place finisher Atascocita Birma (Code Red Kennel) and fourth place finisher Penrose Boss (Blanchard Kennel). There will be three qualifying rounds – Sunday, Oct. 3, Friday, Oct. 8 and Wednesday, Oct. 13 – before the semifinals on Sunday, Oct. 17. The championship final will be on Saturday, Oct. 23. Several greyhounds in this year’s Mountaineer Classic have stakes experience, according to local greyhound historian Robin Reed, and their accomplishments are listed below. LK’s SANTORINI – 2020 All-American; 2020 National Win Leader (33); winner 2020 Derby Lane Grand Finale and 2020 Derby Lane Inaugural; finalist 2020 Derby Lane Sprint Classic and 2019 Derby Lane Husker Magic Fall Sprint. ABBI’S FRONTMAN – winner 2020 Palm Beach Legacy Grand Champion. FRAPPE – winner 2020 Orange Park Future Stars Sprint Challenge. RS’S DARK NIGHT – winner 2021 WVGOBA Fall Juvenile at Wheeling. HI NOON RICOCHET – second 2020 Diane Whitely Sprint Championship at the Gulf; third 2020 Derby Lane Grand Finale. LK’S TRUBULEE – second 2020 Derby Lane Grand Finale. PENROSE BOSS – third 2020 Bestbet Sprint Classic at Orange Park; finalist 2020 Mountaineer Classic at Wheeling. ATASCOCITA BIRMA – third 2020 Mountaineer Classic at Wheeling. CRAIGIE DAUGHTRY – finalist 2021 Southland Futurity Consolation. A complete list of greyhounds by kennel entered in this year’s Mountaineer Classic follow: A Ray – Mega Felipe Blanchard – Frappe, JS Rob Stone, BWC Millie, Penrose Boss, Easi Vesurio, BO’s Tracy, Lily Lazer, Easi Kadeem, Easi Volsina, Frogman Brad Boeckenstedt – BGR Out Of Mind, BGR Bigfoot, Kris Was Righh, BGR Onewaystreet, BGR Big Daddy, BGR Goldfinger, BGR Head First, BGR Angel Eyes Charter – KB’s Copy Kat, Oshkosh Dally, Jack Parkman, Eau Claire, Oshkosh Edward, Barts Worthwhile Code Red – Ponda Waco Hound, Turbo Walt, Atascocita Amity, Atascocita Birma Imark – Imark Solo, Imark Sonja, Saber Port, Tickle Ur Fancy, Day Drinking, Clap Back, Sumkindawondrful, Imark Mash, Ding Dong Ditch, Saber Fire Jacobs Racing – Abbi’s Frontman, Hi Noon Ricochet, Slatex Jackson, Dark Guinness, Abbi’s Eagle, Hi Noon Revolver, Gettin My Buz On, Fortuneandfame, Denali Darlin Lester Raines – JS Slush Fund, O Ya Bobbie Sue, CTW Cant Stop It, JS Saltythursday, RS’s Dark Night, Craigie Daughtry, Teaser’s Tickle, Super C Amega, JS Shock Therapy Patriot/Taplin – Vegas Rangel – JS In The Money, Pat C Zenith, Pat C Inferno Steve Sarras – CTW Black Forest, CTW Bahati, Kells Xterra, ASK China, LK’s Trubulee, LK’s Santorini Wayne Ward – Memphis Minnie, WW Holdin Fast, WW Go Chiefs Go, WW Grandiose, WW Blond Roast Xtrem Hess Racing – UBX Unclesweater, CTW Smores To Go, Axtrem Flicker, Keeper Cry, T’s Iron Man, RHT Marylynn. Owners of the Mountaineer Classic winning greyhound will receive approximately 40 percent of the total stakes purse – a check of $42,000. Runner up is worth $18,000 with the third place finisher receiving $13,000 and fourth place getting $10,000. Fifth and sixth place will receive $5,500 each while seventh and eighth will get $3,000 apiece. Previous Next

< Back Tri State Kennel Wins for Grade AA 550 /A 550 /TAA 677 - Dec 5-9 Patricia Saul Dec 10, 2023 Abrahamson Kennel captured four Grade AA wins with FF Triton, CG’s Miss Muffet, CG’s Sun Storm and Ja’s Dupont. Double G Kennel grabbed two Grade AA wins with Flying Okahana and Ab Draconium while Grade A win went to Ab Smokin. Heather Lomax Kennel had one Grade AA win for Hl’s Brian. Four racers who seized Grade A wins were Se’s Miss Bell, Hl’s Kobe, GF Rockandroll, and Hl’s Carson. CET Kennel had one Grade AA win with Cet Zap and one Grade A with Cet Troy. Lester Raines grabbed one Grade AA with Js Disca Diva and one Grade A with JS Stay Humble. On Line Racing Kennel had one Grade A win with Turbo Sahara and won the Grade TAA with Army. Kennels capturing one Grade AA win were Superior (O Ya Joe Kerr), and one Grade A win were Blanchard (Tmc’s Wildeclair), JS Racing Kennel (Bartsjoyofmylife) and RS Racing Kennel (Operation Dynamo). Previous Next

< Back Spring Nationals 2026 Finals Program May 19, 2026 Frito’s Memorial Stake Senior One Final RACE 1 1. WW DOUBLE DOWN BK.W.T., M 11/01/2024 WW XAVIER-WW NOTHIN TO IT JAWS RACING, LLC, ABILENE KS (A-27) 10 R 1 2 1 1 1-3 1/2 30.61 MIDTRACK DRIVE 2. WW GOLD CANDY R., F 09/12/2024 WW XAVIER-WW ABBVIE JAWS RACING, LLC, ABILENE KS (A-32) 11 R 4 1 1 1 1-12 1/2 30.77 MUCH THE BEST 4. ANDIFUWINYAHOO R.F., M 8/ 4/2024 GOLD STANDARD-STRONG WORDS WINNIFRED LYNN BUNN OR JUNE KENNEDY, MINEOLA TX 12 R 4 1 1 1 1-11 1/2 30.74 QUICK COMMAND 5. WW CASHIN IN BD., F 08/21/2024 CET DIRTY DAN-WW JESSIESPAYDAY JAWS RACING, LLC, ABILENE KS (A-26) 9 R 4 1 1 1 1-5 1/2 30.61 NEVER HEADED Symbioun Farms Stake Senior One Flite I RACE 2 1. WW SLIP THREW R,, F 09/12/2024 WW XAVIER-WW ABBVIE JAWS RACING, LLC, ABILENE KS (A-34) 12 R 2 3 2 2 2-11 1/2 31.56 CROWDED 1ST TURN 2. WW HIGHER PLACE BK., M 11/01/2024 GALE WW WANIKA-WW'S WELOVETORUN JAWS RACING, LLC, ABILENE KS (A-29) 10 R 4 1 2 2 2-3 1/2 30.86 RAIL BID 4. NS STREAKFLY R., F 8/21/2024 SHONN-AB HIGHTOP RYAN J. O'DONNELL OR JACOBS RACING KENNE, ABILENE KS 9 R 1 2 2 2 2-5 1/2 30.99 BROKE LATE 5. WW GOTTA GET IT BK., M 11/01/2024 WW XAVIER-WW NOTHIN TO IT JAWS RACING, LLC, ABILENE KS (A-30) 11 R 1 3 2 2 2-12 1/2 31.55 INSIDE BID Memory of Stockton Hess (Ebro) Stake Senior One Flite II RACE 3 1. GHOST MODE R., F 10/22/2024 DJAYS OCTANE-SHOW GAL JACOBS RACING KENNEL, INC., CLAFLIN KS (A-28) 10 R 2 3 3 3 3-3 1/2 30.87 WELL UP 2. GONZ PANELA F., F 8/ 7/2024 GONZ COSMOS-YOLO ISABELLA MARCOS GONZALEZ, ABILENE KS (A-31) 11 R 2 2 3 3 3-20 1/2 32.11 EARLY FACTOR 4. IVY'S TURKEY R., M 9/12/2024 WW XAVIER-WW ABBVIE JAWS RACING, LLC, ABILENE KS (A-33) 12 R 1 2 3 3 3-17 31.95 CROWDED 1ST TURN RHT Hounds Stake Senior Two Final RACE 4 1. PEDAL TODA METAL W.BK., M 8/ 4/2024 GOLD STANDARD-STRONG WORDS ROO CREW RACING, LLC., MINEOLA TX 13 R 2 1 1 1 1-7 30.43 PEDAL DOWN 2. WW BRIGHT SPEED BK., M 11/01/2024 GALE WW WANIKA-WW'S WELOVETORUN JAWS RACING, LLC, ABILENE KS (A-41) 15 R 4 1 1 1 1-8 30.56 NEVER IN DOUBT 4. WW BUDDIN UP W.T.BK., M 11/01/2024 WW XAVIER-WW NOTHIN TO IT JAWS RACING, LLC, ABILENE KS (A-38) 14 R 4 1 1 1 1-3 30.97 DREW CLEAR 5. NS AIR MAX R.W., M 8/21/2024 SHONN-AB HIGHTOP RYAN J. O'DONNELL OR JACOBS RACING KENNE, ABILENE KS 16 R 4 1 1 1 1-18 30.21 FAR SUPERIOR Abilene Convention & Visitors Bureau Stake Senior Two Flite I RACE 5 1. WW KEEP ON DOING R.BD., F 11/01/2024 GALE WW WANIKA-WW'S WELOVETORUN JAWS RACING, LLC, ABILENE KS (A-37) 14 R 2 3 2 2 2-3 31.19 BOLD TRY 2. WW KING ARTHUR BD., M 09/19/2024 KIOWA MYTH-WW'S KHALEESI JAWS RACING, LLC, ABILENE KS (A-43) 16 R 2 2 3 3 2-18 31.48 OFF LATE 4. SPEED ISSUES BD., F 10/30/2024 BARCELONA BOSS-DARA MABREY JACOBS RACING KENNEL, INC., CLAFLIN KS (A-39) 15 R 1 2 3 2 2-8 31.13 OFFSTRIDED EARLY 5. GOLDEN ONYX BK., F 8/ 4/2024 GOLD STANDARD-STRONG WORDS WINNIFRED LYNN BUNN OR JUNE KENNEDY, MINEOLA TX 13 R 4 2 2 2 2-7 30.93 GOOD EFFORT HS Auction Company Stake Senior Two Flite II RACE 6 1. BLAKSTAR BARBI BK., F 8/ 2/2024 TRENT LEE-DECO DIMON GUN DAVID L. HAYS, WACO TX (A-36) 14 R 1 2 3 3 3-21 32.29 SHUT OFF EARLY 2. WW MAGNAMIOUS W.R., M 10/10/2024 MULBERRY GUS-WWGLITTERSPARKLE JAWS RACING, LLC, ABILENE KS (A-35) 13 R 1 3 3 3 3-13 31.33 OFF LATE 4. WW RIP DK.BD., M 10/25/2024 GALE WW WANIKA-CRAIGIE DESIGN JAWS RACING, LLC, ABILENE KS (A-40) 15 R 2 3 2 3 3-9 1/2 31.23 RAIL TRY 5. WW DON'T PUSH ME R., F 09/12/2024 WW XAVIER-WW ABBVIE JAWS RACING, LLC, ABILENE KS (A-42) 16 R 1 3 2 2 3-18 1/2 31.52 EVEN PACE Ben Stout Memorial Stake Senior Three Final RACE 7 1. WW RAGNAR R.W., M 09/19/2024 KIOWA MYTH-WW'S KHALEESI JAWS RACING, LLC, ABILENE KS (A-53) 20 R 4 1 1 1 1-2 1/2 30.92 BOX TO WIRE 2. GLS FOXY LADY BK., F 10/17/2024 SHIMA SHINE-GLS MUSTARD LOUISE OR GREG STRONG, WHEELING WV 17 R 4 1 1 1 1-4 30.79 ALL THE WAY 4. LUCKY BREAK BD., M 10/30/2024 BARCELONA BOSS-DARA MABREY JACOBS RACING KENNEL, INC., CLAFLIN KS (A-48) 19 R 1 1 1 1 1-7 30.55 NO LUCKY NEEDED 5. WW POWER OF LOVE R.BD., F 10/15/2024 WW XAVIER-WW DREAMY MELODY JAWS RACING, LLC, ABILENE KS (A-46) 18 R 2 2 1 1 1-4 30.95 HANDILY Gillians Greyhound Adoption/Wilken’s Acres Stake Senior Three Flite I RACE 8 1. WW CHUMMY R., M 10/10/2024 MULBERRY GUS-WWGLITTERSPARKLE JAWS RACING, LLC, ABILENE KS (A-51) 20 R 1 2 2 2 2-2 1/2 31.11 RAIL BID 2. WW STICKTOURGUNS R.BD., M 10/20/2024 WW XAVIER-WW HOLDIN FAST JAWS RACING, LLC., ABILENE KS (A-45) 18 R 1 1 2 2 2-4 31.25 TROUBLE EARLY 4. STANDARD IS GOLD W.R.F., F 8/ 4/2024 GOLD STANDARD-STRONG WORDS WINNIFRED LYNN BUNN OR JUNE KENNEDY, MINEOLA TX 17 R 2 2 2 2 2-4 31.08 GOOD EFFORT 5. WW DEEP LOVE LT.R., M 10/15/2024 WW XAVIER-WW DREAMY MELODY JAWS RACING, LLC, ABILENE KS (A-50) 19 R 4 2 2 2 2-7 31.03 STEADY PACE Holm Automotive Center Stake Senior Three Flite II RACE 9 1. WW SAVING BANK BK., F 08/21/2024 CET DIRTY DAN-WW JESSIESPAYDAY JAWS RACING, LLC, ABILENE KS (A-49) 19 R 2 3 3 3 3-10 1/2 31.29 EVENLY 2. BLAKSTAR AMALEE BK., F 8/ 2/2024 TRENT LEE-DECO DIMON GUN DAVID L. HAYS, WACO TX (A-47) 18 R 4 3 3 3 3-6 1/2 32.40 LATE BREAK 4. WW LOOSE CHANGE BK., M 08/21/2024 CET DIRTY DAN-WW JESSIESPAYDAY JAWS RACING, LLC, ABILENE KS (A-44) 17 R 1 3 3 3 3-8 31.34 BROKE LATE 5. WW JUMP ON IT R.BD., F 11/01/2024 GALE WW WANIKA-WW'S WELOVETORUN JAWS RACING, LLC, ABILENE KS (A-52) 20 R 2 3 3 3 3-4 31.21 OUT LATE First Bank Kansas Stake Junior One Final RACE 10 1. CW CODE NAME BE.BD., M 12/01/2024 DK'S PRIME TIME-WW SWIFT HEART JAWS RACING, LLC OR CHARTER KENNEL, INC., ABILENE KS (A-6) 2 R 4 2 2 2 1-4 31.26 STRETCH DRIVE 2. CW ZERO TURN BE.BD., M 12/01/2024 DK'S PRIME TIME-WW SWIFT HEART JAWS RACING, LLC OR CHARTER KENNEL, INC., ABILENE KS (A-3) 1 R 4 2 1 1 1-21 31.12 ALL ALONE 4. WW NEED U DORADO R.BD.W., F 01/25/2025 IRUSKA ALL STAR-WW BURNIN FOR U JAWS RACING, LLC, ABILENE KS (A-11) 4 R 2 3 2 1 1-7 31.00 DREW OUT 5. WW SEEK N FIND BK., F 02/25/2025 SH AVATAR-ADH FLO JO JAWS RACING, LLC, ABILENE KS (A-7) 3 R 1 1 1 1 1-9 30.68 BREEZING Symbioun, Inc. Stake Junior One Flite I RACE 11 1. BLAKFIRE DAGGER BK., F 3/ 2/2025 TRENT LEE-DECO FAST GUN DAVID L. HAYS, WACO TX (A-1) 1 R 1 1 2 2 2-21 32.58 RAIL BID 2. GLS FIYERO BK., M 1/23/2025 SHIMA SHINE-GLS BLONDIE LOUISE OR GREG STRONG, WHEELING WV 2 R 1 1 1 1 2-4 31.55 SET GAME PACE 4. CW GOOD TIMING BE.BD., M 12/01/2024 DK'S PRIME TIME-WW SWIFT HEART JAWS RACING, LLC OR CHARTER KENNEL, INC., ABILENE KS (A-8) 3 R 2 3 2 2 2-9 31.29 EVENLY 5. CW SYSTEM CRITIC DK.BD., F 12/01/2024 DK'S PRIME TIME-WW SWIFT HEART JAWS RACING, LLC OR CHARTER KENNEL, INC., ABILENE KS (A-12) 4 R 4 1 1 2 2-7 31.48 SET GAME PACE Pinnacle Bank Stake Junior One Flite II RACE 12 1. BLAKFIRE BULLET BK., M 3/ 2/2025 TRENT LEE-DECO FAST GUN DAVID L. HAYS, WACO TX (A-5) 2 R 2 3 3 3 3-18 32.53 OFF LATE 2. WW BLACK WIDOW R., F 01/01/2025 GALE WW WANIKA-B'S SCARLET JAWS RACING, LLC, ABILENE KS (A-10) 4 R 1 2 3 3 3-13 31.89 ON RAIL 4. BLAKFIRE FLAME BK., M 3/ 2/2025 TRENT LEE-DECO FAST GUN DAVID L. HAYS, WACO TX (A-9) 3 R 4 2 3 3 3-24 32.37 WELL BACK 5. WW YOUR ON FIRE W.R., M 01/25/2025 IRUSKA ALL STAR-WW BURNIN FOR U JAWS RACING, LLC, ABILENE KS (A-2) 1 R 2 3 3 3 3-21 32.59 EVEN GAIT Borden Southern Distribution, LLC. Stake Junior Two Final RACE 13 1. WW HEARTS ONFIRE W.R.T., F 01/25/2025 IRUSKA ALL STAR-WW BURNIN FOR U JAWS RACING, LLC, ABILENE KS (A-24) 8 R 4 1 1 1 1-5 31.00 MIDTRACK WIN 2. CW COURSE WORK BE.BD., M 12/01/2024 DK'S PRIME TIME-WW SWIFT HEART JAWS RACING, LLC OR CHARTER KENNEL, INC., ABILENE KS (A-18) 6 R 2 2 2 1 1-1 31.58 BEST IN DUEL 4. CW BAR CODE BE.BD., M 12/01/2024 DK'S PRIME TIME-WW SWIFT HEART JAWS RACING, LLC. OR CHARTER KENNEL, INC, ABILENE KS (A-21) 7 R 2 1 1 1 1-2 31.71 GAMELY 5. WW I'M BURNINHOT W.R.T., M 01/25/2025 IRUSKA ALL STAR-WW BURNIN FOR U JAWS RACING, LLC, ABILENE KS (A-14) 5 R 2 1 1 1 1-8 1/2 30.96 WITH EASE Greyt Expressions Photography Stake Junior Two Flite I RACE 14 1. WW U GOT THIS W.R.BD., F 01/25/2025 IRUSKA ALL STAR-WW BURNIN FOR U JAWS RACING, LLC, ABILENE KS (A-19) 6 R 4 1 1 2 2-1 31.66 GAME TRY 2. CW PACIFIC RIM BE.BD., M 12/01/2024 DK'S PRIME TIME-WW SWIFT HEART JAWS RACING, LLC OR CHARTER KENNEL, INC., ABILENE KS (A-16) 5 R 5 4 4 3 2-8 1/2 31.57 STEADY GAIN 4. BLAKDOG ALLALONE BK., M 3/12/2025 SH AVATAR-DECO DIMON GUN DAVID L. HAYS, WACO TX (A-22) 7 R 4 2 2 2 2-2 31.84 CROWDED LATE 5. CW MOVIN ON BD., M 12/01/2024 DK'S PRIME TIME-WW SWIFT HEART JAWS RACING, LLC OR CHARTER KENNEL, INC., ABILENE KS (A-23) 8 R 2 2 2 2 2-5 31.37 GOOD TRY Wayne R. Ward, Inc. Stake Junior Two Flite II RACE 15 1. GLS GRIMMERIE BE., M 1/23/2025 SHIMA SHINE-GLS BLONDIE LOUISE OR GREG STRONG, WHEELING WV 8 R 1 3 3 3 3-11 31.77 TARDILY AWAY 2. BLAKFIRE CUTLAS BK., M 3/ 2/2025 TRENT LEE-DECO FAST GUN DAVID L. HAYS, WACO TX (A-13) 5 R 1 3 3 4 3-15 32.05 EVEN PACE 4. CW DEFY GRAVITY BD., F 12/01/2024 DK'S PRIME TIME-WW SWIFT HEART JAWS RACING, LLC OR CHARTER KENNEL, INC., ABILENE KS (A-20) 7 R 1 3 3 3 3-12 32.54 ON INSIDE 5. BLAKFIRE ARROW BK., F 3/ 2/2025 TRENT LEE-DECO FAST GUN DAVID L. HAYS, WACO TX (A-17) 6 R 1 3 3 3 3-16 1/2 32.73 NO THREAT Associate Sponsor’s Stake Consolation RACE 16 1. FE'S BOLT BK., M 12/ 7/2024 CRAIGIE DELEGATE-FGF NIGHT MOVES JAMES F. TAYLOR, WOODWAY TX (A-15) 5 R 4 2 2 2 4-21 1/2 32.49 WEAKENED 2. FE'S LADY'S MAN BK., M 12/ 7/2024 CRAIGIE DELEGATE-FGF NIGHT MOVES JAMES F. TAYLOR, WOODWAY TX (A-4) 1 R 5 4 4 4 4-32 33.36 LATE BREAK Previous Next