Return looks the complete Package

Roberts revels in Return success

Savva Roberts is excited about the future with Return Package after his big-race success at the weekend.

One of two runners for the kennel in the decider, the September 2023 son of Ballyhimikim Jet and Tell On Jessie ran out an impressive winner of the Alan Dobbin Derby final at Star Pelaw on Saturday night.

He picked up £1,000 for his owner/trainer in the process and Roberts was quick to state that there was no fluke about the 14/1 success.

“I really liked the dog. He’s very shy and is just coming to hand,” said Roberts.

“He missed the break on his return to Star Pelaw when second in the heats, and I told the lads that he was a big outsider with a big chance, so don’t write him off.

“He came out this time and he ran very well. We were really pleased and he’s improving all the time.

“We thought he should have been accepted for the ARC Puppy Trophy at Sunderland, as he probably would have won his race there if it wasn’t for trouble at the first bend.

“We also had Tooper Mcevoy in the final but he is a bang railer and we couldn’t believe he got trap six.”

When asked where his puppy will head next, Roberts said he doesn’t have anywhere in particular on his mind.

He added. “We don’t know really. He’s still only 21 months old and we’ll wait and see what time brings. We’ll just have a look. 

“He’ll go to Newcastle for a trial to keep him ticking over and I think a step up in trip will suit him in time.”

With six opens on the card, there was a big crowd at Star Pelaw on Saturday and Roberts is pleased with the state of the sport in the north east.

“They seem to be doing very well at Star Pelaw,” the trainer continued. 

“There’s a lot of competition in the north east at the moment – they’re all putting on plenty of opens and have increased prize money, which is good for the owners and good for greyhound racing.”