BALLYMAC JEDGAR DELIVERS DREAM START FOR THE BALLYCRANA SYNDICATE

Peter Farrell

A new syndicate, a first greyhound, and a winning debut, it doesn’t get much better than that.

The Ballycrana Syndicate hit the ground running on Saturday night at Lifford Stadium as Ballymac Jedgar stormed to victory on his very first outing.

Just a few months ago, the group took the plunge into greyhound ownership. Keen to start off on the right foot, they sought out one of the best in the business and what better kennel to approach than that of the Ballymac Kennels. When they met Ballymac Jedgar, they saw a well-put-together young dog with potential and promise. He looked the part and seemed a solid choice to get their syndicate started.

After purchase, Ballymac Jedgar joined Alan Byrne and Rebecca Porter at their Drumdoit Kennels, where he quickly settled in. The trainers have provided valuable support and advice, helping the syndicate understand each stage of the ownership and racing process.

“Alan and Becca have been incredible,” one syndicate member said. “They’ve made us feel part of the greyhound community from day one. It’s been such a positive and enjoyable experience.”

With plenty of hard work done with the youngster, the wait was over on Saturday night as Ballymac Jedgar took to the track for his debut run at the Northwest venue. As expected, the syndicate were well represented on the night, with members bringing along family and friends to watch the first outing of ‘Jedgar’.

Lifford once again enjoyed a strong turnout on Saturday night, with a great atmosphere around the stadium and plenty of interest in the betting ring before the first race. The syndicate took the opportunity to promote the impressive facilities available at the track.

“The restaurant at Lifford was absolutely top-class,” another member shared. “The food was great, the staff couldn’t have been nicer, and the view of the track made it such a fun experience. It’s a perfect night out, even before our dog had run!”

With the syndicate already in good spirits, it was time for Ballymac Jedgar to take to the track. Well-backed into 1/2 favouritism, the son of Ballymac Kingdom and Ballymac Petula quickly justified market support. Breaking smartly from a tricky draw in trap six, the May pup showed fine early pace to seize control and raced clear to win by five and a quarter lengths, stopping the clock in an impressive 17.77.

What followed for the Syndicate was pure joy, cheers, laughter, and plenty of photos to capture what was a memorable moment.

“It was just brilliant,” one member said. “To have all of our families there, watching together, and to see our dog win, you couldn’t ask for a better start.

For The Ballycrana Syndicate, the night was about more than just a debut win, it marked the start of their journey into greyhound racing. It reflected much of what makes the sport so enjoyable: good company, a welcoming community, and the excitement of race night.

With a first victory already secured, the group are eager to see what comes next. As for Ballymac Jedgar, it’s early days, but his opening performance under lights suggests there’s plenty to look forward to in the months ahead.