Taxi driver Jak Knape trains first winner at Dunstall Park greyhound track
A taxi driver whose enthusiasm for greyhound racing led to him receiving his training license a year ago made history on Monday morning when winning the first race at Dunstall Park, Wolverhampton
Taxi driver Jak Knape trains first winner at Dunstall Park greyhound track
A taxi driver whose enthusiasm for greyhound racing led to him receiving his training license a year ago made history on Monday morning when winning the first race at Dunstall Park.
Jak Knape first worked with greyhounds in 2011 as a kennel hand to Pauline Spragg, but he’ll be remembered for being the first winning trainer at the new Wolverhampton track after Sovereign Poppy won the venue’s opening race.
It came just 12 months after the 33-year-old took a leap of faith when deciding to combine his full-time role transporting customers around the midlands with caring for six racing greyhounds.
Supported by his mother and aunt who tend to the dogs while he’s on the road, Jak described winning Dunstall Park’s first race as a career highlight and a moment he’ll remember forever.
“I started watching greyhound racing on the TV, and have been hooked since,” said Jak.
“To train the first winner here is unbelievable, it’s the biggest moment of my career."
“I knew she was likely to get a clear run to the first bend. She hugged the rail well and that was that!”
The win was extra special for Jak as greyhound of the moment Sovereign Poppy was also the Nuneaton handler’s first winner as a GBGB licensed trainer in December 2024 when winning an A7 contest at Perry Barr.
Photo credit: Steve Nash
She was also Jak’s last winner at the Birmingham venue before it closed its doors last month in front of a bumper crowd as part of its End of an Era race night.
Jak added: “Perry Barr was home to me"
“But to be part of the launch of Dunstall Park is an amazing opportunity and when doors open to the public next week it will be a great facility"
“I’m hoping to expand my kennel as part of the track’s launch, so it’s an exciting time for everyone involved with the sport.”
Dunstall Park Greyhound Stadium will open its doors to the public for the first time on Friday, September 19.
Tickets have been slashed to just £5 for adults, while all U18s go free. Doors open at 5.30pm, with the first of 12 races on the night off at 6.15pm. Further information is available via www.dunstallpark-greyhounds.co.uk.
