Sandy Hollow Samaritan inspires $500,000 win
BY KATHERINE ERNST
FORBES greyhound Miss Ezmae was able to overcome a day filled with drama to win the inaugural edition of the 715, the world’s richest distance race, at The Gardens on Saturday night.
Co-trainer Maree Smith was passing through Sandy Hollow on her way to the races when her car broke down, leaving her stranded beside the road with her star chaser.
“I tried to stay calm – I walked to the pub but no one there was able to help me,” Smith explained.
“I went back to the service station and approached a young man named Jesse Heinz and he agreed to take us the remainder of the way.
“We are so grateful for his help because winning this race is the pinnacle of our career.”
Miss Ezmae collected $500,000 when triumphing and now heads into retirement as the winner of 17 races.
Greyhound racing is thriving in NSW which is now home to the world’s richest events over 300, 500, 600 and 700 metres.
The sport also has a bright future in the Upper Hunter, with the Muswellbrook track about to undergo major renovations after which it will be granted TAB status – meaning increased prize money as events will be televised and wagered on – a massive coup for local participants.