Brighter Times Ahead for Locke Kennel in Greyhound Racing

Overcoming Challenges at Locke Kennel

Maxine Locke is optimistic about a strong performance at the Coral Sussex Cup at Hove, putting a challenging period behind her kennel. Earlier this summer, a persistent cough affected her greyhounds, leading to a dip in form and a quieter racing schedule. “We haven’t had anything coughing for a while—touch wood!” Locke shared, signaling a return to form for her runners. This update is welcome news for fans of greyhound news uk, as Locke’s kennel prepares to shine in upcoming races.

The setback required constant monitoring, with Locke pulling dogs from races to ensure their health. “It wasn’t the best few weeks for the kennel, as we were constantly watching to make sure they were all right,” she said. Now, with the health issues resolved, her dogs are regaining their competitive edge, making this a pivotal moment for greyhound racing news enthusiasts following her progress.

Ballymac Kobe: A Rising Star

Locke’s hopes are pinned on two standout greyhounds in the Sussex Cup, starting with Ballymac Kobe, competing from trap six in the first heat on Saturday night. The May 2023 whelp has shown promise despite a stop-start career, reaching the finals of the English Puppy Derby at Towcester and the Ladbrokes Puppy Derby at Monmore. A stumble in the first round of the Greyhound Derby and the kennel’s cough setback slowed his progress, but recent wins at Central Park greyhounds and Hove signal a return to form.

“Kobe seems to be going the right way. He’s had a nice win at Central Park and a good win at Hove,” Locke noted. His seeding was adjusted to middle, and while trap six isn’t ideal, Locke believes he can navigate the railers to secure a strong run. Fans searching for greyhound derby news will be keen to see if Kobe can build on his recent successes in this Category One competition.

Ballymac Axel’s Potential

Locke’s second runner, Ballymac Axel, is another promising contender in the Sussex Cup. The May 2023 son of Ballymac Cooper made the ARC Northern Puppy Derby final at Newcastle and won a heat of the Con & Annie Kirby Memorial in Limerick. After a two-month hiatus following the Greyhound Derby first round, Locke is cautiously optimistic. “I wish we had another week with Axel, but he will come on for the run,” she said. Facing a strong competitor in Slick Sentinel, Axel’s potential to improve makes him one to watch for greyhound latest news.

Axel’s earlier performances, including a standout trial before the Derby, highlight his ability, despite setbacks like an injury and the kennel’s cough. “He ran well in the Kirby Memorial, but he did an extra lap in his Derby trial, which took a lot out of him,” Locke explained. His recovery and gradual return to racing are key storylines for greyhound news today.

Headford Asher’s Recovery

Locke also provided an update on Headford Asher, a promising puppy who went lame during the JR Racing Juvenile Classic at Towcester. “He’s doing pretty well now,” Locke said, noting two small shoulder tears that caused swelling and bleeding. Asher is on treatment, improving quickly, and enjoying light activity. “He’s bouncing in himself—he doesn’t like not doing much,” she added. For fans following greyhound news, Asher’s recovery is a positive development, with Locke prioritizing a careful return to avoid rushing the young greyhound.

Looking Ahead in Greyhound Racing

As Locke’s kennel regains momentum, the Coral Sussex Cup offers a chance to showcase her greyhounds’ talent. With Ballymac Kobe and Axel leading the charge, and Headford Asher on the mend, Locke’s optimism resonates with greyhound racing news followers. For the latest updates on greyhound news uk and greyhound derby news, fans can follow race results and form guides at The Greyhound Recorder or check racecards at At The Races.