Imagine turning down a staggering $500,000 for a greyhound. Sounds crazy, right? But that’s exactly what owner-trainer-breeder Brendan Dewan did when it came to his prized pup, Dewana Star. And tonight, that decision paid off in spectacular fashion as Dewana Star claimed the Group 3 Northern Districts Cup at Shepparton, cementing his status as a rising star in the sport.
This wasn't just another win—it was his sixth consecutive victory, a testament to his raw talent and Dewan's unwavering belief in him. From the moment the boxes opened, Dewana Star was all business. The son of Hooked On Scotch and Dewana Classic burst into the lead with the confidence of a seasoned veteran, fending off a late surge from Springers Boy, who had also finished second to him in the heats just a week prior.
The conditions were far from ideal, with a wet track adding an extra layer of challenge. Yet, Dewana Star stopped the clock at an impressive 25.05 seconds, the fastest time of the night. To put that in perspective, in the heats—his first-ever race over 450 meters—he clocked an even more astonishing 24.90 seconds. But here's where it gets controversial: Is Dewana Star already one of the greats, or is his best yet to come?
For Dewan, this victory holds special significance. It marks his second Northern Districts Cup win, the first coming nine years ago with Dewana Result. His refusal to sell Dewana Star, even after receiving offers as high as $160,000 following the dog's near-record-breaking Shepparton debut in October, speaks volumes about his faith in the greyhound's potential. "They could offer half a million dollars for him, and I still wouldn’t take it," Dewan famously declared. And this is the part most people miss: It’s not just about the money—it’s about the bond between trainer and dog, and the belief in what they can achieve together.
As Dewana Star leaps from box two to victory, one thing is clear: this is a greyhound with a future as bright as his name. But what do you think? Is Dewan’s decision to keep Dewana Star a stroke of genius, or is he leaving money on the table? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
