The Terrier Derby

Sport of Lunatics

Epsom Racecourse, spiritual home of the “Sport of Kings”, became the host to the Sport of Lunatics when a record turnout of over 70 barking mad terriers competed in the 9th Omni Terrier Derby, run along side the actual Derby course. For those unfamiliar with terrier racing the pooches are loaded into traps and chase a lure on a cord dragged by an upside down converted bicycle contraption, into a gap in straw bales at the finish of the 50 metre course with winner being the first through the bales. The somewhat anarchic and unpredictable nature of terriers makes for an hilarious spectacle, described by one distinguished racing journalist as “the greatest spectator sport”.

Previous winners Smudge and Sage were back again this year to renew rivalry with Sage, owned by William Haynes, battling his way through the heats, quarter and semi-finals to take the final in thrilling fashion from Frosties Lad and Milou. There was plenty of drama and a few disputes along the way with a couple of races having to be re –run when terriers actually caught up with the lure and incidents of fighting amongst the terriers (requiring intervention by an “officer of the lure”).

Set at the historic Epsom Racecourse, following the Epsom Trainers Open Day, The Omni Terrier Derby provides support for Epsom Racing Staff Welfare to improve welfare and conditions for the racing staff in Epsom. Omni is delighted to support such a worthy cause along with fellow Terrier Derby sponsors Farm Fencing and McGee Demolition. This was the Omni Terrier Derby’s first year as a “stand alone” event and it’s success can only lead to an even bigger and better Terrier Derby in 2012.