Like many organisations, Dubbo Greyhound Racing did it tough during the latest COVID-19 lockdown but Saturday night's meeting at Dawson Park was a spectacular way to welcome back fans.
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Twelve races in total were held at the meeting but none were bigger than the Lesley Ann Leonard Memorial.
Forbes trainer Errol Hughes and Daisy's Girl ($10) took out the race but just over two lengths ahead of Spring Renegade ($9.50) and Rare Talent ($2).
Dubbo Greyhound Racing president Shayne Stiff said the night was a tremendous success.
"It was a good night," he said.
"There was a good crowd too on hand and the running of the Lesley Ann Leonard Memorial final was a really good one."
"It was a good win for Errol Hughes who comes from Forbes," he said.
"He was thrilled and honoured to win the race.
"The dog won it is owned by Melissa Smith and was a real, real good win.
"There was $8,000 in prize money so they were really happy."
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While racing continued at Dawson Park during the lockdown, only essential workers could attend the meetings but due to the easing in restrictions spectators have now been allowed to attend.
Stiff was thrilled with the turnout for Saturday night's meeting and believes it was a good reward for the hard work the club has done during the two month lockdown period.
"It's good," he said.
"We raced so long without having anyone there and it was quiet, and it was boring.
"But just to have people back there cheering and the atmosphere was good.
"It was nice for the club who battled through COVID-19.
"The industry did a great job to keep racing for the animal welfare and also for the trainers. But to get the public back there with the owners and trainers cheering their dogs is good."
Charmaine Roberts took out the Les Leonard Memorial with Payton Keeping ($2.20).
Payton Keeping and Blazing Lisa ($1.80) trained by Pamela Braddon were neck and neck through the first part of the track before the former pulled away to take the win by just under two lengths with Total Burner ($71) finishing in third position.
Racing will continue again at Dawson Park next Saturday afternoon.
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