A Nottingham greyhound trainer who supplies the most dogs at Colwick Park has given up the sport.
Anneliese Thompson, 30, made the announcement that she is to quit training on June 21.
The Stainforth-based trainer has by far the biggest kennel strength at Nottingham.
Thompson informed the Colwick Park track on Monday of her decision then proceeded to send out a double on the card.
“To be honest I’ve had a great ten years in the sport and achieved everything I set out to do.
“It’s a 24/7 job and I’ve adored my job but it consumes your entire life.
Thompson said that her decision was partly to do with her family.
“I don’t want to do another ten years and look back and feel like I’ve missed valuable time with friends and family.”
The popular handler is looking to disperse her runners with immediate effect.
“I’ve had some amazing owners and I adore all the dogs but they’re all being moved to fabulous trainers and a small handful are being retired onto sofas.”
Fans of greyhound racing have reacted on social media to the announcement with disappointment.
It's a massive blow to Nottingham, the sport, her dogs & her owners. That said, I am sure all her dogs will be very well taken care of. The fifty thousand dollar question is why? Good luck Anneliese.
— Paul Carpenter (@Carpente7Paul) June 21, 2021
Saddened to hear that, @AnnelieseThomp is a lovely, passionate young trainer, a huge loss to the sport.
— Kim Sanzone (@kim_sanzone) June 21, 2021
The sport is losing the good ones in droves, Anna, Carl Perry, Jon Blencowe in recent months to name a few. The industry and especially @arenaracingco have got the most short term problem policies I’ve ever seen in any industry. All for today’s profit
— Matt Walker (@Mattthehat24) June 22, 2021
It's not good when losing young talented trainers like @AnnelieseThomp but can understand why people are leaving the sport due to not making it pay.
— John Paul Wilkinson (@jpwdogs1964) June 22, 2021
Bombshell. Nothing but good words to say for @AnnelieseThomp and her staff, a good friend of mine has multiple dogs with her and has always sung her praises and dogs are always in top condition. Wishing you luck whatever you decide to do next!
— Kingsley Newman (@kingsleh) June 21, 2021
The move may create additional problems at Colwick Park, which already is struggling for greyhounds.
Colwick Park currently has 290 greyhounds with a weekly requirement of 294 places.
