Geoffrey De Mulder: The Wizard of Meriden in Greyhound Racing History

Geoffrey De Mulder, born in Yorkshire in 1930, was destined for greatness in the world of greyhound racing. This remarkable story represents one of the most significant chapters in greyhound news UK history, chronicling a trainer whose influence shaped the sport for decades.

Early Life and Racing Heritage

Raised in a household steeped in the sport - his father, Joe De Mulder, was a prominent trainer during the 1950s and 1960s. In 1967, Geoff officially stepped into the professional spotlight by taking over the National Greyhound Racing Club licence. That same year, he reached the Gold Collar final, signaling the arrival of a future champion trainer.

The transition from son of a trainer to professional in his own right marked the beginning of what would become one of the most celebrated careers in greyhound racing history.

Rise to Prominence: The Meriden Years

In 1970, he made his first major impact when Little County finished runner-up in the English Greyhound Derby. Operating from his Meriden kennels in the West Midlands, De Mulder quickly became known for his consistent brilliance and unique style.

Nicknamed "The Wizard of Meriden" and sometimes "The Meriden Magician," he was not only respected for his results but revered for the energy and eccentricity he brought to the sport. His theatrical approach and genuine passion for greyhound welfare made him a beloved figure throughout the racing community.

Derby Glory: A Father-Son Racing Legacy

His greatest achievements came in the form of two English Greyhound Derby titles. In 1974, Jimsun delivered De Mulder's first Derby victory in a thrilling final that established him among the sport's elite trainers.

Five years later, in a remarkable twist of fate and breeding, Sarahs Bunny - sired by Jimsun - secured his second title. This father-son Derby double remains one of the most romantic stories in greyhound racing history, showcasing De Mulder's exceptional breeding knowledge and training expertise.

Championship Collection and Racing Dominance

De Mulder's dominance wasn't confined to the Derby. He also captured the Scottish Greyhound Derby in 1978 and triumphed in the Grand Prix in 1976. His trophy haul included:

• Five Trafalgar Cups - demonstrating consistent top-level performance
• Four Consolation Derby wins - showing depth across his kennel
• Four Select Stakes victories - including a rare hat-trick of three in succession
• Two Greyhound Trainer of the Year awards (1978 and 1979)
• Two Trainers Championships (1977 and 1987)

His ability to consistently deliver top-tier performers was unparalleled, with an astonishing 14 greyhounds reaching the English Derby final under his guidance - a record that speaks to both the quality of his dogs and his training methods.

The Fearless Dynasty and Stadium Success

He was also the mastermind behind a celebrated line of greyhounds carrying the 'Fearless' prefix, among them Fearless Ace and Fearless Lord. This breeding program produced multiple champions and established bloodlines that influenced racing for generations.

While attached to several Midlands tracks - Oxford, Nottingham, Coventry, Hall Green and Norton Canes - his reputation stretched far beyond regional circuits. At Oxford, he claimed the Oxfordshire Stakes and the Oxfordshire Gold Cup, adding further prestige to an already glittering résumé.

Mentorship and Lasting Influence

Beyond his own accolades, De Mulder's legacy includes those he mentored. His protégé, Tony Meek, went on to claim two English Derby victories of his own, a testament to the knowledge and inspiration passed down through the generations.

The wider greyhound community admired him not just as a trainer but as a figure of warmth and generosity. Fellow trainer and long-time friend Charlie Lister OBE once remarked that De Mulder was not only one of the best trainers the sport had seen but also a very dear friend.

Training Philosophy and Innovation

De Mulder's success wasn't just about natural talent - he was an innovator who constantly sought new ways to improve his greyhounds' performance. His attention to detail, from nutrition to track work, set new standards in professional greyhound training.

His ability to read a greyhound's potential and develop it to its fullest was legendary among his peers. Many of the training methods he pioneered continue to influence modern greyhound preparation.

Recognition and Industry Awards

The racing establishment recognized his exceptional contribution to the sport through numerous honors:

• Greyhound Trainer of the Year (1978, 1979)
• Trainers Championship (1977, 1987)
• Multiple track championships across his associated venues
• Lifetime achievement recognition from various racing bodies

These accolades represent just the formal recognition - his true legacy lies in the countless greyhounds he helped reach their potential and the people he inspired.

Remembering the Wizard 

After battling a long illness, Geoffrey De Mulder passed away on December 11, 2009, at the age of 79. He left behind his wife, two children and a legacy that will forever be etched into the sport's rich history.

His influence extends far beyond the trophies and records. The Wizard of Meriden changed how people viewed greyhound training, elevating it from a craft to an art form. His theatrical personality and genuine love for the sport helped attract new fans and participants during racing's golden era.

Today, Geoffrey De Mulder's name remains synonymous with excellence in greyhound racing. His two Derby victories with father and son Jimsun and Sarahs Bunny continue to inspire trainers and owners, while his record of 14 Derby finalists stands as a testament to sustained excellence.

Read about another legend in greyhound racing history, George Curtis.