What’s happening?
Tony Parker’s kennel star, Showtime Isaac, is a top contender in the North Queensland Cup, scheduled for Tuesday, 3 December 2024, at the Townsville Showgrounds.
The $16,000-to-the-winner race pits Showtime Isaac against a stellar field, with Parker aiming for his first feature win.
Why it matters?
This race is a milestone for Parker as he continues his family’s greyhound training legacy.
Winning would honour his late father, Merv Parker, who triumphed in the same event in 2012, and solidify Tony’s transition to a full-time career in the industry.
Local Impact
Greyhound racing is vital to the North Queensland community, with trainers like Parker and his family contributing to the sport’s rich heritage.
The event highlights the dedication of local trainers striving to achieve recognition on a bigger stage.
By the Numbers:
- $16,000 in prizemoney for the winner of the North Queensland Cup.
- Tony Parker has amassed 82 wins in the Townsville trainers’ premiership this year.
- Showtime Isaac’s record: 17 wins and 10 placings in 2024, leading the greyhound premiership.
Zoom In
Tony Parker now operates a 10-acre kennel near Giru with 15 dogs and invaluable support from his wife, Kellie.
His father’s passing last year inspired him to fully embrace training as a career, a decision that has yielded standout results. “Of course, your livelihood depends on your dog’s doing well, but in some ways, that isn’t a whole lot different from most people who run their own business,” Parker explained.
He fondly recalls Showtime Isaac’s quirky personality, saying, “Each day when he comes back into his kennel after being let out, he ‘demands’ a pat and a cuddle before he lets you go.”
Zoom Out
The North Queensland Cup is more than just a race.
It highlights the depth of talent in the region, with Steve Scott of Sarina fielding three strong contenders in the Final.
Races like these showcase the local industry’s vibrancy and competitiveness.
What to Look For Next?
Stay tuned for the results to see if Showtime Isaac can claim his long-deserved victory and deliver Tony Parker his first major feature win.
