Smallmead

Following a decision by GBGB, Smallmead has been stripped of her Coral Champion Stakes Final following a positive drugs test.

John Mullins’ bitch, who has since landed the RPGTV St.Leger, will lose the title, prize money and Trainers Chamionship points as an automatic procedure.  A full GBGB will take place, probably early in the new year. An original hearing was cancelled due to personal circumstances within the Mullins family.

John Mullins was unavailable for comment and though disappointed is said to be accepting of the decision, which has been speculated to be a ‘food chain positive’.

The Cat One title has new been awarded to runner-up Desperado Dan whose handler Patrick Janssens now edges closer to his first trainers championship.

He said: “My first thoughts are with John and Lee Calcutt. I have known John for many years, and from what I understand, I believe they have been very unlucky. It could happen to any of us.

“At the same time, I am delighted to Evan Herbert who has been a great supporter of the event. Dan goes into Friday’s Essex Vase Final with the opportunity to be the first winner of the Romford Clean Sweep – the Coronation Cup, Champion Stakes and Essex Vase. In fact, he was to win on Friday, it would surely put him into the reckoning for Greyhound of the Year.”