Nick and Natalie Savva: Icons of Greyhound Racing History

Nick Savva stands as a towering figure in British greyhound racing. With a legacy marked by unparalleled success, he has earned his place as one of the most accomplished trainers and breeders the sport has ever seen. Behind every victory, however, is a story of quiet persistence, deep intuition and an intense bond with the animals he’s devoted his life to. 

From Cyprus to the Greyhound Racing UK Stage

Born in Cyprus in 1934, Savva made his way to London as a young man seeking opportunity. But it was a chance visit to Harringay Stadium in 1952 that would quietly steer the course of his life towards greyhound racing. 

Savva initially built a life far from the racetrack, establishing a dressmaking business. But after meeting and marrying Natalie Drew in 1961, the couple chose to follow a shared passion. They sold the business, purchased a small kennel and immersed themselves in the world of greyhounds. Together, they laid the foundation for what would become Westmead Kennels - a name that would soon be synonymous with excellence. 

Building the Westmead Legacy 

Over the decades, Nick and Natalie developed a keen reputation for breeding and training elite greyhounds. Their dogs, easily recognised by the "Westmead" prefix, became a staple in top-tier competitions. The breakthrough came in 1972 when Westmead Lane won the Cesarewitch, marking their first major victory. More success followed, with standout names such as Westmead Myra, Westmead Power and Westmead Move making waves on the racing circuit. 

The couple’s unique approach to breeding emphasised quality over quantity. Their kennel was never large - rarely more than five litters a year - but what they lacked in volume, they made up for in excellence. Nick always believed that a champion was not made through force or shortcuts but through understanding and nurturing raw potential. 

Throughout the late 20th century and into the early 2000s, the Savvas produced a string of legendary racers. Dogs like Phantom Flash and Toms The Best dominated. Toms The Best, for instance, achieved the rare feat of winning both the Irish and English Greyhound Derby’s, cementing his place in the sport’s history books. 

But perhaps no dog captured public imagination quite like Westmead Hawk. Known for his thrilling, last-minute surges, "The Hawk" became a fan favourite and secured back-to-back English Derby titles in 2005 and 2006. His dramatic finishes drew crowds and made headlines, earning him comparisons to sporting greats and even a place in Madame Tussauds. Westmead Hawk was a champion. To learn more about his sensational career, read our article here:  Greyhound Racing UK The following year, Westmead Lord made it three consecutive English Derby wins for Savva. Lord was a half-brother to Westmead Hawk, both out of the same dam, Mega Delight. 

A Personal Approach to Greyhound Training

Nick’s approach to training was deeply personal. He believed in building a connection with each dog, often adjusting their routine based on subtle behaviour changes. According to him, a trainer’s calm confidence could transfer to the dog, creating a powerful bond that translated into results on the track. 

A Legacy That Endures in Greyhound Racing History 

Though Natalie passed away in 2019, her legacy lives on through their shared work. Nick, now in his 90s, remains an active figure in the sport, a testament to both his enduring passion and the respect he commands across the greyhound racing community. 

Today, Nick and Natalie Savva’s influence stretches far beyond the track. Their story continues to inspire newcomers, while his lifetime of achievements stands as a benchmark for excellence in the sport. In a world often driven by speed and spectacle, Savva reminds us that greatness is built with patience, integrity and an unwavering love for the animals at the heart of it all. 

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