NEW NATIONAL WHIPPET RACING FEDERATION.
Originally known as the NWRF for many years. Founded in 1976 by a group of 10 like-minded people interested in promoting ‘better organised Open race meetings. The aim was to ensure better monetary rewards for its members. The First Open Event The Founders Trophy was held at Colnebridge Wrc on 21st November 1976. 185 yards at yard per lb. Guaranteed Prize Money £100. The Founders Trophy Open was won by J Houghton 29lb Fawn Dog Maskouri.
The 1st NWRF Straight Championships was held on the 9th October 1977 at Meden Valley Wrc. Sup Winners Dog Section Nch Ch-Ch Maskouri and Bitch Section winner Nch Ch-Ch Singing Wind. This was shortly followed by the 1st NWRF Bend Championships on the 29th of October 1977.
The first six NWRF Bend Championship was not run to a Supreme Nch Ch-Ch Dog or Bitch. It was decided by the NWRF officials that after Winning the class title Nbch. The Whippet had done enough and was not to be over raced. In 1983 things changed 32lb Fawn Bitch Nch Ch-Ch Roller Coaster became the first Bend Nch Ch-Ch owned by Julie & Steve Bateson.
The Federation secretary was Mr G K Wigfield (Sheffield), Other founder members were Mr Phil Henson (Sheffield), Mr Vin Angel (Sheffield), the late Mr A Ward (Maltby), Mr Neville Burkinshaw (Sheffield), Mr Keith Robinson (Bradford), Mr Harry Godber (Sheffield) and Mr Brian Williams(Sheffield). Shortly after the initial set-up of the NWRF. The late Peter Stienlet (Newcastle), Ritchie Cooper (Newcastle) and Cliff Glaves joined the committee.
NWRF Committee. Photo shows Back Row left to right A Ward, Nev Burkinshaw, Ritchie Cooper, Harry Godber, George Wigfield, Peter Stienlet. Front Row left to right Brian Williams, Vin Angel, and Cliff Glaves.