Two brothers who gave up shopfitting to train greyhounds could win their first category one competition, the highest level of UK greyhound racing, at Central Park Stadium on Saturday night.

Oxfordshire-based Chris and Phil Hamblin transformed their Mapledurham warehouse from a fitting unit into purpose-built kennels.

The kennels, which include a paddock space, swimming pool, kitchen and a racing office, are home to Ela Maestro, who is among six finalists in Saturday’s £12,500 Arena Racing Company Cesarewitch Grand Final.

The two-year-old greyhound advanced to the final through a qualifying heat two weeks ago before placing second behind fellow finalist Alright Gordy in the semi-finals last Saturday.

This is the second time the Hamblin brothers have made it to a category one final.

Chris Hamblin said: "He was destined to step up to a longer six-bend trip since he arrived at the kennel in the autumn.

"I wasn’t entirely convinced the 731-metre trip would play to his strengths, but he’s proven me wrong and clearly enjoys Central Park.

“All greyhound trainers dream of winning the big competitions, and we’re no different.

"It’s been a huge journey to get to this stage, and having a Category One winner really would be a great reward for the team’s hard work and the support we receive from our owners."

In the final, Ela Maestro will compete against Ballymac Taylor, Bradys Bullet, Garfiney Blaze, Mad For Sterling and Alright Gordy for the title of the Cesarewitch’s’ 85th champion.

The competition was first held in 1928 at West Ham Stadium.

Chris Hamblin is optimistic about Ela Maestro’s chances, given he starts from trap one on the inside, and said: "His performances have been really strong.

"I watched the semi-finals from the back straight, and he made a b-line for the inside rail from the traps, so Saturday’s draw is great for us.

"There are some really talented greyhounds in the final, but the draw has improved our chances and will make the race interesting."

He added: "He’s more than capable of dipping his time back to the 44.7 to 44.8 second mark.

"If he does, there’s no reason why we can’t make the frame."

The Cesarewitch Grand Final race will be the highlight of Saturday’s race schedule at the Central Park Stadium, with doors opening at 5.30pm and the first of 12 races starting at 6.38pm.

Tickets are available for purchase from the Central Park Stadium, including trackside package and restaurant bookings.