History Made: Jess Hopkins Claims Group 1 Melbourne Cup

Jess Hopkins has etched her name into greyhound racing history, becoming just the 10th female trainer to win the Group 1 Sportsbet Melbourne Cup after a powerhouse performance from Canya Mayhem at Sandown Park tonight.

In a race that lived up to every ounce of its hype, Canya Mayhem – the son of Bernardo x Bali Sunset – delivered the run of his life. Showing trademark speed and composure, he surged to the lead and refused to let go, giving Hopkins the biggest victory of her rapidly rising career.

The win marks Hopkins’ second Group 1 triumph in just 12 months, following her Topgun Stayers success with Canya All Class last year – a stretch of form that now cements her as one of the most exciting young trainers in the sport.

“It’s surreal,” Hopkins said post-race. “To win a Melbourne Cup is what everyone dreams of. I’m just so proud of him.”

Behind the winner, Dashing Slay, trained by 23-year-old Kayla Cottrell, lost no admirers with a bold and courageous performance, finishing a gallant second in the $1 million feature. The consistent Valenzuela filled third, continuing his rise through the sprinting ranks.

Hopkins’ win is not only a personal milestone, but a moment of significance for the sport – joining a select group of female Cup-winning trainers.

For a boutique trainer juggling life between gallops and greyhounds, the Melbourne Cup has always been the dream. Tonight, at Sandown Park, Jess Hopkins lived it.