The finalists for the 2023 TAB Queensland Greyhound of the Year have today been unveiled.
Staged at the Victoria Park Ballroom in Brisbane on March 22, Jay Is Jay, Bear’s Bullet and Magistrate will battle it out for the Queensland greyhound industry’s highest accolade after a voting panel of eight narrowed the field to three finalists.
Selena Zammit’s star chaser Jay Is Jay continued to reach dazzling heights in 2023, notching up 15 wins from 26 starts – headlined by his superb victory in the Million Dollar Chase, becoming the first Queensland-trained greyhound to win the $1 million-to-the-winner race.
In addition, an Albion Park track record went with triumphs in the Group 2 Queensland Derby, Group 3 Queensland Flame, Listed Origin Greyhound Series Match Race, as well as second placings in Group 1 races, the Gold Bullion and Topgun.
Magistrate, trained by Greg Stella, also enjoyed a highly consistent 2023 season with an impressive 19 wins and 19 placings from 44 starts.
The black dog took out the Group 3 Ipswich Auction Series Final and Group 3 Origin Greyhound Series Sprint Final, helping Queensland seal the series for a second straight year.
Bear’s Bullet rounds out the nominations after announcing herself as one of the state’s bravest chasers, with victories in the Group 1 Ipswich Gold Cup and the Queensland National Sprint Final.
Under the care of Travis Elson, the dark brindle bitch posted 14 wins and 12 placings from 35 starts, along with a gallant fourth in the Group 1 Brisbane Cup.
RQ CEO Jason Scott said the performances of this year’s finalists underlined the quality and promise in Queensland’s chasing ranks.
“Each finalist claimed victory at Group level in 2023, and have represented Queensland with distinction both locally and on the national stage throughout the year,” Mr Scott said.
“I would like to congratulate the three finalists and their connections for their recognition amongst the state’s top echelon, and wish them all the best on the night.
“The greyhound code continues to come along in leaps and bounds here in Queensland, and the 2023 Awards night will be a fantastic evening to celebrate the outstanding achievements within the code.”
Other awards to be handed out on the night include:
- Trainers Strike Rate Award;
- Brisbane Sire of the Year;
- Brisbane Leading Owner Award;
- Brisbane Dam of the Year;
- Top Simbi Award;
- The Young Achiever;
- Women in Racing;
- Run of the Year;
- RQ Outstanding Contribution Award;
- Hall of Fame inductees; and
- Club Award winners (leading trainer and leading greyhound).
Click here for further information on the 2023 TAB Queensland Greyhound Awards.