Mark Wallis is often regarded as the best greyhound trainer in the UK, with numerous awards and accolades testifying to his skill.
Mark Wallis’ Career Overview
Mark Wallis has had a tremendous career filled with impressive milestones that have marked him as a top-notch greyhound trainer. Traversing more than three decades, his career began in the 1980s, and he quickly distinguished himself among his peers. A noteworthy point in his career was when he became the Champion Trainer for a record ten times, earning the Greyhound Trainer of the Year award from the Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB).
Notable Achievements
Some of Wallis’ most notable achievements include:
- Champion Trainer for a record of 2007, 2008, 2009, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2019
- Trained over 200 race winners in each of these years
- Winner of the prestigious Greyhound Derby in 2009 and 2012
Training Philosophy and Styles
Mark Wallis attributes his major successes in greyhound training to his unique training philosophy and methods. Wallis believes in a comprehensive approach to training, encompassing physical conditioning, dietary control, and psychological guidance. He is known to place considerable emphasis on the individual needs of each greyhound, adjusting his training methods accordingly. This personal touch and adaptability are likely key factors in his sustained success and ability to produce top-performing greyhounds on a consistent basis.
Wallis’ Kennels
Imperial Kennels in Lakenheath, Suffolk, is the operational base of Mark Wallis Greyhounds. It is widely considered one of the best-equipped and run kennels in the country. The kennels provide a top-class environment for the greyhounds for their training sessions and activities.
The table below provides additional information about the Imperial Kennels:
| Facility | Description |
|---|---|
| Outdoor Space | Extensive outdoor space for the greyhounds to exercise and play |
| Paddocks | Four large, rearing paddocks |
| Gallop Area | A purpose-built gallop area to provide full-speed run-outs |
| Housing Spaces | Comfortable housing spaces with heating facilities for winter months |
This immaculate setting offers every greyhound a top-class environment and underscores Wallis’ commitment to ensuring the best for his charges.
While there are a number of prominent and successful greyhound trainers in the UK, Mark Wallis’ long list of accolades and the high regard in which he is held by both his peers and the wider greyhound racing community make him a prime candidate for the title of the best greyhound trainer in the UK.
Other Top Greyhound Trainers in the UK
While Mark Wallis’s accomplishments set him apart, there are several other illustrious greyhound trainers in the UK who deserve recognition for their profound contribution to the sport.
Patrick Janssens
Patrick Janssens is another celebrated greyhound trainer in the UK. Based at the Central Park Stadium in Sittingbourne, Kent, Janssens has raced many champions and award-winning greyhounds under his care. In 2020, he secured the GBGB Trainer of the Year title, breaking Wallis’ streak.
Paul Young
Paul Young is a well-respected figure in greyhound training based at Romford and Crayford. He’s known for being one of the most regular ‘open race’ trainers and has had numerous greyhounds race in high-profile competitions.
Seamus Cahill
Seamus Cahill, based at Hove and Monmore, is one of the top trainers on the UK greyhound circuit. He has achieved several big-race successes and is known for his professional approach towards training.
Charlie Lister
Often referred to as the ‘Master Trainer’ and the ‘Derby King’, Charlie Lister OBE is renowned for his Derby successes, having an unmatched record of training seven Greyhound Derby winners.
Each of these trainers brings their own skills and unique approach to the sport, contributing to the diversity and richness of greyhound racing in the UK. This makes the field fiercely competitive and hugely captivating.
Traits of a Successful Trainer
Although individual trainers have their unique styles of training, there are certain shared traits that contribute to their success. These include:
- Understanding the Physicality: Trainers must understand the physical capabilities of their greyhounds, individual differences in endurance, and adapt trainings accordingly.
- Attention to Nutrition: High-energy diets suited to the specific demands of racing greyhounds are essential.
- Training Regularity: Consistency and regularity in training schedules.
- Knowledge of Racing Tactics: A deep understanding of strategies used in races.
- Emphasis on Recovery: Adequate attention to recovery processes including rest periods and injury management.
Impact on Greyhound Performance
An effective trainer significantly influences the performance of their greyhounds as race outcomes are heavily dependent on factors like a dog’s fitness level, agility, speed, and overall health. Often, the highlights of a successful trainer’s career point towards their impact on greyhound performance. For example, in the case of Mark Wallis, his consistent record of training winning greyhounds year after year clearly demonstrates his substantial contribution towards enhancing race performance.
Race Output of Top Trainers
The table below shows an approximate comparison of race output of top trainers:
| Trainer | Approximate Annual Race Wins |
|---|---|
| Mark Wallis | Over 200 |
| Patrick Janssens | 170 – 200 |
| Paul Young | 150 – 180 |
| Seamus Cahill | 130 – 160 |
| Charlie Lister | 120 – 150 |
The data, while subject to changes from year to year, gives a sense of the level of success these top trainers have achieved in the highly competitive field of greyhound racing.
Greyhound Welfare and Trainers
The welfare of greyhounds is a crucial aspect in the career of a trainer. They are responsible for caring for and ensuring the health and well-being of their greyhounds. Therefore, successful trainers not only exhibit a comprehensive understanding of training, but also display a pronounced dedication to the welfare of their racing greyhounds.
