ELITE PERFORMER KURSK SET FOR STUD
Ian Fortune
In terms of pure speed and unadulterated early dash, Elite Kursk was amongst the very best in recent years.
Sadly, after a memorable career that saw him make an unlikely return from serious injury to perform at the highest level again, his racing career has come to an end.
EARLY PROMISE
It was evident from the earliest days of his career that he was a real talent.
His owner, breeder, trainer Myles Roban certainly knew, beginning his career in the Future Champion and Michael Fortune Memorial Open Unraced in March 2024.
He may have suffered defeat in his early outings but was gaining valuable experience. It was in May that things finally began to click, winning twice around Enniscorthy, showing big early speed in the process.
IRISH SPRINT CUP BRILLIANCE
Soon after, the decision was made to give him a try over two bends.
In early July, he was trialed over 350yds at Enniscorthy and proceeded to post an incredible 18.48 on a track rated .10 slow. To put the run into perspective, the track record stands at 18.50, which was set by brilliant sprinter Montos Mark back in 2007.
It was then straight into the deep end for the young tracker. He took his place in the opening round of the Irish Sprint Cup and his progress and improvement through the early rounds of Dundalk’s sprint classic was remarkable.
A winner in 21.23 in the opening round, he went even faster in the second round, posting a rapid 21.00. And still he improved further. He was again brilliant in the quarter finals, showing stunning pace to lead early for a 20.89 success.
He chased home Broadstrand Syd in the semis, earning his place in the traditional August 15th showpiece. The view was that track record holder Broadstrand Syd would be very difficult to beat but Elite Kursk pushed him to the pin of his collar.
In one of the great sprint races, packed with huge names, Elite Kursk was absolutely electric to the opening bend. Showing the most remarkable speed, he was a length clear of Broadstrand Syd to the bend.
It seemed scarcely possible but, alas, it wasn’t to be. Steering a middle path, he left room for Broadstrand Syd to challenge on the fence. Saving ground, the latter was on terms by the time they hit the final turn and he was in front by the time they straightened up.
Still, Elite Kursk gave his all. The pair powered home with the verdict going to Broadstrand Syd by just over a length in 20.67. Elite Kursk may have suffered defeat but he posted 20.76, which is faster than each and every winner of the classic before or since.
A MEMORABLE COMEBACK
Elite Kursk would be lightly raced through the remainder of the year but signed off with a fine run in second in the Winter Racing Festival Championship Sprint.
Unfortunately, it would be his final start for ten months as he picked up a serious hock injury the following February.
He was nursed back to full fitness and had something of an Indian summer, although he would never be quite by the same again. It is testament to the brilliant sprinter that he would win again in open company, most notably emerging triumphant at the Winter Racing Festival. He captured the final of the mini-open 525 in rapid 28.25.
He continued to trial well. However, age wasn’t on his side. He had two runs in the summer, but carried little luck and Myles Roban made the wise choice to retire his star.
THE END OF THE LINE FOR A SPECIAL TALENT
The fastest son of Elite Black from a talented dam line that has produced many top stayers, he was something of freak.
A greyhound with the early speed to take on and beat the very best over two bends, he also stayed 525yds well and was bred for stamina on his dam side.
He will be best remembered for his Irish Sprint Cup campaign but the fact that he returned from such a serious injury to win at high level is evidence of his enthusiasm, determination and incredible natural ability.
He is now set to be given a chance at stud. At a time when early speed is at such a premium, one suspects a few breeders will give Elite Kursk the opportunity. A true specimen, weighing in at 76lbs and capable of leading any greyhound in the land to the corner, we looking forward to seeing his progeny burning up the sand on the run to the turn in the future. Happy retirement to an ‘Elite’ performer.
At stud in Elite Kennels. Contact Myles 0862555127.