After an absence of seven years, the NSW Greyhound of the Year Awards will return in 2021, with a gala presentation function to be held in Sydney on June 27.
The once annual awards ceremony has not been held since Double Twist and Jagger Swagger were voted joint 2013 Greyhound of the Year winners at a function in early 2014.
In 2015, following a turbulent time in the industry, it was decided not to present the awards, but after substantial reform and a significant resurgence in the industry, a decision has been made by Greyhound Racing NSW to reinstate the awards and recognise those from 2014 to 2020.
"It is tremendous news for all participants, and the entire industry, that we are reintroducing the NSW Greyhound of the Year awards in 2021," GRNSW Chief Executive Officer Tony Mestrov said.
"It is incredibly important that as an industry we recognise and honour our stars - both canine and human - and the memorable achievements from each and every racing year.
"Each year we see some phenomenal performances on the racetrack, by some remarkable greyhounds, some outstanding results from trainers, and also great achievements in the breeding barn. We need to acknowledge all of these with annual awards.
"In my time here at GRNSW I have often been asked by participants if we planned to revive the Greyhound of the Year awards and function. I understand the significance and importance of such an event for all in our industry, and for some time now, we have been working behind the scenes to reintroduce the awards.
"I am delighted that we have finally been able to set a date for the return of the Greyhound of the Year awards on June 27, where we will not only pay tribute to those magnificent achievements of 2020, but bestow the honours on those who had missed out during the absence of the awards."
Statistical and voted awards for each of the past seven years will be awarded to the Trainer of the Year, Sire of the Year, Dam of the Year, and the top award of Greyhound of the Year. Additional awards for the past year will also be presented at the function.
The event will be held as a luncheon on Sunday June 27 at the Fullerton Hotel in Sydney.
