Dog Racing

College Causeway - He is the greatest

2010-02-03T08:30:00.000Z

If College Causeway could speak, like Ali, he too would be shouting from the roof tops. "I am the greatest!"

The star tracker has put up some breathtaking displays over the past couple of years. But his performance in the Paddypower.com Irish Greyhound Derby final at Shelbourne Park last Saturday was his best - bar none.

Many great canines have ended their career having failed to win the Irish Greyhound Derby. Tyrur Ted is one who springs to mind. A sensational tracker who won nearly everything there was to win except the Irish Derby. Late Late Show was another hugely popular star who looked destined for Derby success during his career. He came within a short head of completing the dream for his connections. Greyhounds such as Spiral Nikita, Droopys Maldini and Premier Fantasy were other superb trackers who many believed deserved to win an Irish Derby but never did.

Going into last Saturday's Irish Derby final, even the most optimistic of College Causeway fans felt that their star was going to join that elite list of the 'nearly men'. On the night when it mattered most, it appeared as though the draw had done the 'People's Champion'. And that was after an undefeated path to the final.

But then again, College Causeway tends to enjoy doing things the hard way. And when he doesn't, he then goes and breaks track records. His first round demolition is a prime example of that when he smashed the seven years standing track record at headquarters.
As good as that first round exhibition was though, Derby final night will go down as one of the most memorable in the history of Shelbourne Park. And that's coming from people who have been going to the Derby twice as long as I have.

In a race which so many different outcomes looked possible, nearly everything went wrong for College Causeway. He broke nearly too well. That meant squeezing between Cashen Legend and Shaneboy Lee followed. He then was sandwiched going into the dreaded opening bend. Now he was last heading down the back straight. Even the great College Causeway couldn't pull this one off.

But as soon as some started to right him off, up went the customary College roar. He'd found a gap. He'd got himself back into this Derby. Within a matter of strides, he had moved himself into third. Oran Classic was the clear leader but everybody knew he wasn't the greatest of stayers. Sure hadn't 'College' overhauled him a week earlier in the semis.
Cashen Legend was the next to be passed by 'College'. It was now a two dog race. And with 'The Causeway', as he was described in commentary, going faster than ever before, it was only a matter of time. In Grand National terminology, Crisp was tiring and Red Rum had him covered.

Around the final bend and 'College' drew upsides. A quick glance across to say, 'it's me again' and off he went. The place went wild. The roof had finally come off Shelbourne Park. The 'People's Champion' had got his just reward.

It's not often that greyhound racing gets to witness such a star. But he's more than that. As Sea The Stars is to the horse racing public, College Causeway is Ireland's champion. In fact, he belongs to us.

And the best part about it all is that he's not finished yet either!

Latest News - Nottingham Open Races cancelled - 4th, 11th and 18th January

2009-12-29T15:50:00.000Z

Please note, the following open races due to take place at Nottingham on the 4th, 11th and 18th January 2010 and advertised in GBGB Calendar no 25 have been cancelled.

4th January

The January Restaurant Offers on 0115 910 33 33 0115 910 33 33 Standard

The January Restaurant Offers on 0115 910 33 33 0115 910 33 33 Sprint

The Stadium Bookmakers Maiden 480m

The Stadium Bookmakers Super Stayers

11th January

The January Restaurant Offers on 0115 910 33 33 0115 910 33 33 Sprint

The Caffreys Futurity Puppy Cup Trial stakes

Category Three
The January Restaurant Offers on 0115 910 33 33 0115 910 33 33 Standard

Heats 11th Jan
Final 18th Jan

Swansea closes after owner guilty of illtreating dogs

2009-11-30T13:37:00.000Z

Swansea dog track in South Wales closed on November 7th, less than
two weeks after the owner, Eric Short, was fined £250 for keeping
greyhounds in poor conditions.
Council inspectors found dogs kept on soiled bedding and kennels
smelling of urine at the greyhound stadium.
There were wheelbarrows full of excrement outside the kennels and
food waste lying around.
One greyhound had an open cut on the tail, which a vet thought was
over a week old, and there was blood smeared across the kennel wall,
magistrates in the city heard.
Other dogs were roaming loose
and there was an open bin bag
and a block of frozen meat
dumped on the floor.
Kelly Byrne, prosecuting on
behalf of Swansea Council, told
the court that environmental
health officers visited the stadium on March 5th and found the
greyhound kennels were of a "very poor standard” and badly lit,
with “some in complete darkness".
Above and left – Greyhound Action’s first ever demo was held outside
Swansea Greyhound Stadium in July 1999
The stadium closed after the owners failed to obtain a new long lease
with the Council.
John Rabbaiotti, race manager at the stadium, said: “The track needs
£30,000 of investment and we can’t risk spending that kind of money with
the risk of losing it in a year.”
The track's closure leaves just one greyhound stadium in Wales, where
at one time there were at least half a dozen.
Although Swansea was
one of Britain's smaller,
independent tracks, we
estimate that its existence
was nevertheless responsible for the putting to death
of dozens of greyhounds every year, so its closure is
a cause for celebration and yet another victory in the
struggle for greyhound protection.
The slaughter of greyhounds in South Wales was
brought to public attention five years ago when local
"greyhound executioner" Andrew Gough was
sentenced to six months imprisonment for the
mutilation of an ex-racing dog called Rusty.

Latest News - Coventry Open Race notices

2009-10-28T11:04:00.000Z

Latest News - Coventry Open Race notices - Sunday 1st November cancellation and Friday 13th November closing date change
23/10/2009

All Open Races scheduled at Coventry on Sunday, 1st November (as advertised in Issues 20 and 21 of the GBGB Calendar) have been cancelled.
This is due to a number of firework displays taking place in close proximity to the stadium.

The Autumn 480 at Coventry, starting on Friday 13th November closes to entries on Monday 9th November and not Saturday 7th November as advertised in Issue 21 of the GBGB Calendar.

Rocky trialling

2009-09-22T22:19:00.000+01:00

18 Sept, 2009.WITH the Youngs Guns series at Rockhampton looming, club officials want to remind visiting trainers of their trialling times.Major works are being carried out on the thoroughbred racetrack and confirmation of dates and times should be made through Ray Pike on 07 49362107 07 49362107.Trials (except fightbacks) will be held at Rockhampton after racedays on Saturday Sept 19 and 26, Wednesday Sept 23, and Tuesday Sept 29 and Oct 6 from 5.30pm

Magna Flintoff - son Brett Lee - aiming for victory on Sky Sports31

2009-08-02T20:06:00.000+01:00

Brett Lee has registered almost 3,500 offspring and like their father, they are notorious for their pace.Champion Aussie greyhound Brett Lee has been as useful off the track as he was on it, and he has firmly established himself as an international super-sire, producing stars of the track in Britain, Ireland, and the US as well as his native Australia, and Magna Flintoff looks likely to be his latest son to leave a big impression on the sport.Winner of six of his eleven British starts, Magna Flintoff looks like a chip off the old block, and lines up as second favourite for next Tuesday’s final of the Category 1 William Hill Steel City Cup at Sheffield stadium (live on Sky Sports). Dave Perry at the Owlerton Stadium said:“The competition has been running since 1970. The original trophy was lost until the other week when we found it in an old safe so it’ll be on display this Tuesday. Magna Flintoff is a powerful, pacey athlete much like Freddie and comes from a litter of pups all named after cricketers including Magna Botham, Magna Boycott, Mayna Truman and Magna Gough!”Trained in Rotherham by Barrie Draper, and owned by father Albert, the two and a half year old black dog has already hit the bookies hard in winning his heat and semi-final as an odds-on favourite; and unlike his namesake his career is only just beginning.

Boulevard Stadium in Hull holds final meeting

2009-07-01T10:31:00.001+01:00

The Boulevard Stadium in Hull held it's final meeting on Saturday 27th June. Speaking prior to the track's closure Ian Taylor, GBGB Chief Executive, commented:“It is regrettable to learn of the closure of the Boulevard Stadium in Hull.“Despite the industry providing considerable support to the stadium since it recommenced racing in October 2007 it is saddening to hear that lease holder Dave Marshall has been unable to realise the aspirations he held for the track.“GBGB will be working with all relevant stakeholders, including the Retired Greyhound Trust, to make arrangements to ensure the welfare of Hull greyhounds and trainers.”

Microchipping moves to Monmore15

2009-05-30T21:36:00.000+01:00

THE GBGB's pilot project to evaluate microchipping as a permanent method of greyhound identification has entered its second stage with chipping due to commence at a second GBGB-licensed track.So far, 491 greyhounds at Crayford Stadium have been implanted with a microchip that has generally performed well, with only a very small number of cases of migration reported. With the vast majority of the Kent track’s racing strength now chipped, and the supporting hardware currently in the final stages of development, the second phase of the trial is about to start at Monmore Stadium.Welfare Manager Peter Laurie explained:"We are still at the trial stage but Government is already proposing that all racing greyhounds be chipped under their Welfare of Racing Greyhounds Regulations due to come into force in 2010.'The results so far from Crayford have been pleasing and now the supporting hardware is in place, trainers and stadium staff that have seen it in operation are excited by what the technology offers. The chips have all been implanted by a trained Paddock Steward and the process is very quick and pain-free to the greyhounds. Importantly, there do not appear to be any adverse affects of microchipping on greyhound welfare or race performance. In fact, quite a few greyhounds representing a variety of trainers have won first time out after being chipped!"

Latest News - It’s time for a “Hare” of The Dog at Pelaw Grange Greyhound

2009-04-29T09:33:00.000+01:00

Stadium07/04/2009“Hunny Bunny” will be giving “Old Growler” a run for it’s money at the 5th Annual Beer Festival at Pelaw Grange Stadium. The Houston Breweries “Hunny Bunny Ale” and Nethergate Breweries “Old Growler” are just two of the greyhound themed tipples available trackside from Thursday 9th April at 6.30pm until Monday 13th April.Jeff McKenna, stadium owner said: “Pelaw Grange is the only greyhound stadium in the country to hold a beer festival. After the tremendous success of previous years we decided to run the Festival as an annual Easter Weekend event.”There will be about a dozen different cask conditioned beers on offer from various breweries throughout the country. The greyhound theme runs throughout the festival with beers such as Wold Top Breweries “A4 Amber Ale”, Saltaire Breweries “Trio Pale” on offer.“It’s a great chance to sample something different to your ‘usual’ and with greyhound racing on the Friday afternoon, Saturday night, and Monday afternoon to keep you occupied, what more for the discerning drinker ask for?”For more information contact Jeff McKenna at Pelaw Grange Stadium on 0191 4102141

UKAS bid on course as Greyhound Board appoints Director of Accreditation

2009-04-01T21:27:00.001+01:00

The Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB) has appointed John Blake as its first Director of Accreditation. The former chief executive of The Jockeys’ Association is tasked with managing the process of the GBGB becoming UKAS accredited.The United Kingdom Accreditation Service is the sole national accreditation body recognised by government to assess, against internationally agreed standards, organisations that provide certification, testing, inspection and calibration services.Speaking on his appointment, John Blake said:“When GBGB achieves UKAS accreditation as a certification body, a key element in the process of maintaining self-regulation with oversight from an independent organisation will be in place.‘Although not mandated by Government, the successful completion of this programme is clearly in step with the industry’s ambition for a transparent and modern sport with welfare objectives at its heart. To communicate the rationale and direct benefits of this project to all involved in greyhound racing will be a key task in underpinning its success.”Blake has direct industry expertise working as racing and greyhound editor with Teletext Ltd. In addition to this he has held managerial positions within horseracing and football with British Telecom, Ladbrokes and Racecall.Ian Taylor, GBGB Chief Executive, commented:“I am pleased John has joined the Greyhound Board, his ability to communicate and implement a structured change management program working co-operatively and in unison with our key stakeholders in Licensed Greyhound Racing will be instrumental in achieving a significant landmark. UKAS Accreditation is fundamental to the Greyhound Board of Great Britain, and I am delighted that somebody with John's knowledge and ability has taken on this exciting challenge. John has significant regulatory experience and a sound understanding of the standards we are working towards as well as a wealth of racing industry experience.‘It is the intention and a clear ambition to achieve and maintain this initial accreditation in the next 12 months approx. to fall in line with the implementation of the Animal Welfare Act in April 2010.”John Blake will work with the Greyhound Regulatory Board at the GBGB’s Holborn headquarters.

The Rules of Racing Committee has met for the first time at the Greyhound Board of Great Britain’s central London headquarters.

2009-03-02T14:23:00.000Z

The standing committee forms part of the Greyhound Regulatory Board and is independently chaired by Non Executive Director, Steve Winfield. Committee members include Gordon Bissett, representing the Racecourse Promoters’ Association and Norah McEllistrim, Chair of the Greyhound Trainers’ Association. Declan Donnelly, Director of Regulation, Deputy Registrar Paul Illingworth and Stipendiary Steward Colin Betteridge, all of the GBGB complete the six strong team.Committee members are undertaking a review of the Rules of Racing, the regulations that set parameters for licensed greyhound racing in Great Britain. Bissett and McEllistrim are consulting their respective associations and members to ensure as wide a range of views are obtained on what the future Rules of Racing should contain. The first meeting of the committee agreed the importance of the rulebook being founded on inclusivity and fairness. A process will be developed to ensure that all those not represented on the committee will be able to offer suggestions for its future direction. The present rulebook was last reviewed in December 2008 and is currently under revision to incorporate language consistent with the new Greyhound Board of Great Britain. The amended version will be published in March 2009.More fundamentally it is intended thereafter to consult on an industry wide basis before producing efficient and manageable Rules that are acknowledged as fair and effective.Steve Winfield, Non-Executive Director of the Greyhound Regulatory Board, speaking after the meeting said:“The first meeting was very encouraging showing a deep commitment to making the review of its rules a success. It is very important that the review process allows everybody the opportunity to contribute to what, after all, is their rule book.‘Our intention is to produce a new set of rules which are clear, precise and unambiguous and which make it as easy as possible to comply. The process will assist our intention to become UKAS accredited and that also brings us into line with BERR guidelines (Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform).”Feedback and comment on the Rules of Racing Review is welcomed. Please contact rulesofracingcommittee@gbgb.org.uk

GBGB APPOINTS DIRECTOR OF REGULATION

2009-01-30T12:09:00.000Z

The Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB) is delighted to announce the appointment of Declan Donnelly as Director of Regulation.Mr Donnelly will join the GBGB on 1st January 2009 and will be based in the organisation’s new, central London office. His work will include overseeing the work of the GBGB regulatory staff and licensing department. He will report to both the Chief Executive of the GBGB, Ian Taylor, and the Greyhound Regulatory Board, chaired by Dr Ian Reynolds.Donnelly recently retired from the Metropolitan Police Service after thirty two years service, during which he represented the force both nationally and internationally. He spent the last five years within the professional standards department as a Detective Superintendent and was a member of the Metropolitan Police Project Board for the national Taylor Reforms. In early 2008 he was seconded to the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service to review and make recommendations for change to their approach to professional standards.Responding to his appointment, he said:“I am looking forward immensely to working with colleagues, stakeholders and those involved in the sport to deliver a service that not only aspires to the reforms advocated in Lord Donoughue’s review but also reflects the principles advocated within the Government’s, ‘Better Regulation’ document.“I do not underestimate the challenges that such changes present to us all. At the heart of this modernising process are both the welfare of the greyhound and integrity of the sport. These paramount principles were recognised by Lord Donoughue and I am sure that this view will be shared by many who have the interest of the greyhound and greyhound racing at heart. It is with this in mind that I see my role as pivotal now and in the future to ensure that regulation is both impartial and equitable.”GBGB Chief Executive Ian Taylor was delighted to secure Declan for the role. He added:“I am very pleased that we have been able to attract such a high calibre regulator for this new and vitally important role.“Declan brings tremendous experience, but also a thorough understanding of how modern day regulation should be conducted. I know he will be a tremendous asset to the organisation and to greyhound racing as a whole.”

BGRB COMPLETES 2008 TRACK SAFETY PROGRAMME

2008-12-23T11:48:00.000Z

The BGRB is close to completing its 2008 programme of track safety improvement projects. Thanks to funding provided from the board’s Welfare Budget, projects have been completed at 21 stadia across the country. Trainers, owners and punters should notice improved drainage at Crayford, Hove, Hull, Kinsley, Newcastle, Sheffield and Sunderland and new inner running rails installed at Crayford, Hall Green, Monmore, Nottingham, Perry Barr, Shawfield, Sittingbourne and Yarmouth. A number of tracks have had their cambers adjusted, including at Henlow, Hove, Sittingbourne and Swindon. Safety curtains have been installed at Monmore, Newcastle, Romford, Sunderland and Yarmouth, whilst Harlow, Henlow and Hull have all taken delivery of new track preparation equipment. The programme of installing bore holes at tracks that require them to allow year-round watering has now been completed, following drilling at Doncaster, Newcastle, Shawfield and Sunderland in 2008. The BGRB also oversaw and part-funded the relaying of the running surface at Sheffield. John Haynes, who chairs the BGRB Welfare Committee said: “By the end of the year we will have spent a quarter of a million pounds on improvement projects nationwide, and that follows a half a million pound investment in 2007. I really hope stakeholders are noticing the benefits; our aim is to reduce injuries and extend racing careers as best we can. “In 2009 we will be continuing with our work, and will be providing more training to ground staff to ensure all are well versed in preparation and maintenance best practice.” Meanwhile, the BGRB’s testing of Viscoride, a potential alternative surface material to sand, has recently reached its conclusion. Haynes added: “The Track Safety Committee has been conducting trials on the Viscoride surface laid on a schooling track in Brands Hatch, Kent, since March of this year. The trials themselves have actually gone quite well; we have collected a lot of data and the number of injuries recorded by vet Richard Payne (who has attended all trial sessions) has been low, including a complete absence of sand burns and split webs. “However, it has proved more difficult to maintain the track than expected and, despite a range of equipment being sourced and used, it has been very time consuming and labour intensive to prepare a consistent surface suitable for greyhound racing in all weathers. “In 2009 attention will therefore turn to the development of a hybrid material that is likely to combine the beneficial properties of sand and Viscoride that we have identified. Research to find any safer and more easily maintained alternative to wet sand that may exist has been a fundamental part of our welfare work and one that I am pleased that the GBGB is keen to continue.”

GREYHOUND OF THE YEAR AWARDS - DETAILS ANNOUNCED

2008-11-26T20:33:00.001Z

As excitement mounts over the destination of the Greyhound of the Year title for 2008, the BGRB in association with GBGB is pleased to announce that the popular Annual Awards Dinner will take place at the Hilton London Metropole on the evening of Sunday 25th January 2009.GBGB you ask? Yes, the single new industry body, the Greyhound Board of Great Britain is effective January 1st 2009 and will be masterminding this event.The magnificent occasion is being organised for the second time by Amanda Duplock who said:“In what is the most exciting period of change for the greyhound racing industry I am very confident about the prospect of an even bigger and better event at a very impressive new central London venue. Having previously hosted events such as the Empire Film Awards, the Hilton Metropole certainly knows how to look after guests and put on a show!”“We also want to make the event affordable and accessible for the whole of the greyhound racing industry and I am very pleased that, for the third year running, we have been able to maintain the ticket price at £50 per person or £500 for a table of ten. A discounted room rate at the hotel has also been secured at just £99 per room to include an expansive buffet breakfast. "“With top class performances from so many different greyhounds this year, the awards demonstrate the dedication, commitment and excitement of the British greyhound racing industry. I am sure that many people from across the sport will want to attend. Both tickets and hotel rooms are expected to sell out so early booking is strongly advised.”

TRACKS REPRESENTED AT ANNUAL SEMINAR

2008-10-27T16:34:00.000Z

Last week’s Track Preparation and Maintenance seminar at Nottingham Stadium has been hailed a success by Welfare Committee chairman John Haynes:“This was the fourth year we have run the event and my thanks to Nottingham for hosting it this time. I was very pleased with the turnout; we had over 40 staff representing most of the tracks.“Track safety is a fundamental part of our welfare strategy and ensuring those working on the tracks receive regular training and information is very important. These seminars provide a great opportunity for track staff to come together to share experiences and best practice, ask questions and find out about the latest equipment and research.”Speakers at the event included consultant minerals engineer and greyhound enthusiast Dr Terry Veasey who reported on his work developing a database of sands used at every track. In recent years Terry has helped several stadia improve their running surfaces by blending sands or identifying local alternatives to the traditionally used sands.Bill Glass, Operations Director of Gaming International spoke on the influence of track design and the ongoing work in this area whilst John Haynes reviewed the regular maintenance required to keep a track in tip-top order, particularly with winter approaching. He also discussed the range of plant and equipment now available and a demonstration of the Nottingham track equipment was provided.Meanwhile, the BGRB continues to fund track safety improvement projects at stadia across the country. Haynes added:“So far this year almost twenty projects have been completed, and there are another dozen in progress. The projects have included improvements to drainage, alterations to cambers, drilling bore holes, installation of new running rails and safety curtains plus the supply of new track maintenance equipment such as SISIS quadraplays. I know that trainers and owners are noticing the improvements.” More information:Peter Laurie, BGRB Spokesman 0207 808 7722

LATEST BGRB ACTIVITY REPORT26th

2008-09-28T20:43:00.000+01:00

September 2008Each month the British Greyhound Racing Board reports on its activities in the centre pages of the Greyhound Star magazine.Click here to download a PDF version of the latest double page spread from the October issue, featuring:• Interview with BGRB Director, John Waldron• Report on the Greyhound Breeders Festival• New "1p meal deal" marketing campaign • The Animal Welfare Act, secondary legislation and greyhound racing• Welfare, Training and GBGB Transition updatesFor more information on any aspect of the BGRB’s work, email info@bgrb.org.uk or call 020 7808 7722The latest issue of the Greyhound Star magazine is out now and can be purchased from most greyhound tracks and some newsagents, priced at £2. For distribution and subscription enquiries call 01462 679439

2007 ANNUAL STATISTICS PUBLISHEDThe

2008-08-20T11:58:00.000+01:00

BGRB today published the 2007 racecourse annual statistics, as collated and supplied by the Racecourse Promoters Association (RCPA).On a national scale, attendances fell by 4.1% and total tote turnover by 3.8%. Total prize money paid was also down by 4.1%, reflecting to some extent the reduction in BGRF prize money contributions paid in 2007 which were largely reversed in 2008. Statistics were provided from 26 of the 29 NGRC-licensed tracks, of which eight reported increased attendances in 2007 and 11 reported increases in their average tote turnover per race. A small increase in the number of meetings held and races run was also confirmed. Commenting on the figures, BGRB Chairman David Lipsey said:“There is no getting away from the fact that the overall statistics are generally disappointing although I am very encouraged to see that a good number of tracks across the country bucked the trends and boosted their attendances in 2007. “There appear to have been a number of factors combining to make 2007 a tough trading year for tracks. The combination of introducing the smoking ban and the rising popularity of ‘stay at home’ leisure activities has affected not just greyhound racing but also casinos, horse racing, bingo halls and pubs. Greyhound racing has to remind the public how much more entertaining and enjoyable a night at the dogs is compared to staying in watching a DVD or surfing the net, and I am delighted that the BGRF has been able to support a new promotional initiative which will be rolled out during the autumn.“2007 also witnessed the introduction of year-round evening opening of betting shops and a corresponding increase in the amount of BEGS racing. One positive result was a small increase in voluntary levy contributions; however there was almost certainly a resulting negative impact on attendances.”Despite the disappointing data being published, Lipsey confirmed his belief that there remains cause for quiet optimism:“We are entering a difficult economic period that will test the resilience of many operators in the leisure sector. However, our sport continues to offer a fun, exciting and affordable night out and that is the message we must promote.“I am pleased that several tracks including Nottingham, Sunderland and Kinsley have recently, or are currently, investing in their facilities. The recent success of Yarmouth, as an example, confirms that those with quality restaurant, bar and entertainment facilities are in a much stronger position to compete successfully in an increasingly competitive market.“Local improvements to stadia must be accompanied by national PR and marketing campaigns and so far in 2008 we have seen an increase in the volume and diversity of positive media coverage of the sport. As already mentioned, we are putting the finishing touches to a significant autumn marketing campaign, details of which will be announced shortly.“Only last week the senior appointments for the new Greyhound Board of Great Britain were announced, and looking at the calibre of the successful individuals it is clear that the transition committee has set out to find first class people with track records of success. There are many challenges for the sport to face in its new era, but the GBGB will be led by a team who can take advantage of the new structure to help it fulfil its obvious potential.”Lipsey concluded by alluding to the potential offered by new tote betting opportunities:“Tote turnover is very important to the health of a track and whilst on-course betting levels faltered during 2007, the arrival of GOTTO gives the sport an important opportunity to harness the potential of off course tote betting. I fully expect interest in the product, and in a variety of new and innovative tote pool bets, to increase in the months ahead.”Estimated totals for all tracks in 2007:Attendance: 3,200,000Tote Turnover: £75,100,000Races: 75,600Meetings: 5,750Prize money £15,737,122Like for like comparisons based on figures from 26 tracks*: Attendance: Like for like change: -4.1%Tote Turnover: Like for like change: -3.8%Races: Like for like change: +2.0%Meetings: Like for like change: +0.6%Prize Money: Like for like change: -4.1%On-course Bookmakers: Like for like change: -4.8%Average attendance per meeting: Like for like change: -4.7%Average on-course tote turnover per race: Like for like change: -5.7%*Figures for “Like for like change” are based on a comparison of the 26 tracks whose data was included in both 2006 and 2007 statistics. Coventry, Henlow and Shawfield did not return statistics for 2007 having done so in 2006. Hull reopened towards the end of 2007 and therefore its figures were not available.

Walthamstom high on the agenda

2008-07-28T10:18:00.000+01:00

The BGRB Welfare Committee held its third meeting of the year on Wednesday 16th July and discussion of welfare issues raised by the imminent closure of Walthamstow Stadium was high on the agenda.Committee Chairman John Haynes reported:"As usual it was a busy meeting and a wide range of issues were discussed, from standards of track kennels nationwide to the latest training seminars and research projects."I am pleased to confirm that the Committee also agreed a set of proposals to support trainers and greyhounds affected by the imminent closure of Walthamstow. We will be making available funds from the Welfare Budget and the next step will be for Peter Laurie (Welfare Officer) and I to meet again with representatives of the Walthamstow Directors, trainers and the Owners and Welfare Association to finalise arrangements in the next couple of weeks. In addition, we will be keeping one eye on developments at Harlow as a number of the Stow trainers begin to grade their greyhounds on there."The Committee also welcomed Norah McEllistrim, newly-elected Chair of the Greyhound Trainers Association (GTA), to her first meeting. She takes over from Brian Clemenson who has represented the GTA on the committee since mid-2006.Haynes added:"Everyone knows that Norah is passionate about greyhound welfare and I am sure she will make a valuable contribution to the committee's work. It is also important that Brian’s contribution is properly acknowledged and it is a demonstration of his commitment to welfare and the GTA that he gave up his time and took a day out of the kennels to attend meetings in London on a regular basis."The Welfare Committee is due to meet next in October.

LATEST BGRB ACTIVITY REPORT27th June 2008Each

2008-06-30T15:43:00.000+01:00

month the British Greyhound Racing Board reports on its activities in the centre pages of the Greyhound Star magazine.Click here to download a PDF version of the latest double page spread from the July issue, featuring:• Comprehensive information on the forthcoming Greyhound Breeders Forum Festival at Harlow Stadium on 14th September• Interview with BGRB Director, Barry Johnson• Report on recent BGRB-funded track safety improvement projects• Result of the election to decide the new Chair of the Greyhound Trainers Association• Latest PR and press activity updateFor more information on any aspect of the BGRB’s work, email info@bgrb.org.uk or call 020 7808 7722The latest issue of the Greyhound Star magazine is out now and can be purchased from most greyhound tracks and some newsagents, priced at £2. For distribution and subscription enquiries call 01462 679439

DERBY MEDIA GUIDE PUBLISHED

2008-04-29T19:22:00.000+01:00

28th APRIL 2008
The British Greyhound Racing Board today released its first Media Guide to the 2008 Blue Square Greyhound Derby.
To download your PDF copy of the guide, click here [File size: 6.6MB. Please right click and "Save As" to save to your local computer. Requires Adobe Acrobat version 6 or above available here].
BGRB Spokesman Peter Laurie explained:
“We have a hugely exciting Derby to look forward to in the coming weeks with the very best greyhounds from across Britain and Ireland competing for the sport’s biggest prize.
“The twelve page Media Guide that we have produced in conjunction with the event sponsors Blue Square, and with GRA Wimbledon Stadium, is designed to provide the wider media with a flavour of what the Derby means to everyone connected with greyhound racing.
“It offers a wealth of information about the event, and valuable perspectives from a range of individuals involved in the Derby, the showpiece of Britain’s third most popular spectator sport.
“I very much hope that the guide will help to generate media interest in this year’s competition and lead to the level of coverage that such an historic and prestigious sporting event deserves.”
More information:For more information on any aspect of the Derby, or to arrange interviews, receive photos or request a Press Pass, please contact Peter Laurie at the BGRB on 020 7808 7031 or at peter.laurie@bgrb.org.uk

£150,000 EXTRA FOR AUTUMN GRADED PRIZE MONEY

2007-09-02T10:14:00.000+01:00

The BGRB is today making available an additional £150,000 for graded prize money in 2007. The money will be split equally between all 29 NGRC tracks with the recommendation from the BGRB’s Racing Committee that each track puts on a number of Double Prize Money graded races over the coming months. David Lipsey, BGRB Chairman explained: “The £150,000 that we are distributing now is money saved by the cancellation of the 2007 Top Dog competition. This was scrapped earlier in the year because, having reviewed its first year, the Board considered it unlikely to achieve its aim of attracting more media coverage and increased live attendances. “Since then there has been great pressure on the BGRB’s income due to a reduction in greyhound betting turnover and the need for increased investment in welfare. However, the BGRB Board did agree in January that if it ever was possible to reallocate the Top Dog money, it should be guaranteed to be used as extra prize money for graded racing, in order to benefit the maximum number of owners and trainers. “I am very pleased that it has now been clarified that we are able to split the money equally between all the tracks in this calendar year so each receives approximately £5,000. Owners and trainers have said that prize money is vital to help them discharge their welfare responsibilities so I hope this addition, although modest, will provide a welcome boost. “The BGRB Racing Committee recommends that each track uses the money to fund Double Prize Money races, although tracks are advised to consult with their owners and trainers on this point. “I am also pleased to confirm that a further sum of just over £82,000 will be made available later in the year for each track to stage a series of Christmas bonus races in the form of promoted local sweepstakes. This money was included within the 2007 budget and more details will be made available shortly.”

BRETT WILL NEVER SURRENDER

2007-07-13T21:38:00.000+01:00

LEADING trainer Tony Brett landed the time-honoured Grafton Maiden final on Thursday night when Never Surrender led virtually throughout.Never Surrender (Go Wild Teddy-Just Precious) was one of four winners on the night for three, three at Grafton and one at Albion Park.Box one ensured Never Surrender’s position as a dominant favourite in the Maiden Final and, after beginning safely, the issue was never in doubt. He was untroubled to score by four lengths from the locally-trained Miss Go Getta and Jan's Dream in 23.27. Charlie Northfield’s Kingsbrae Di led her rivals a merry dance from box one to take out the Sprinter’s Cup (407m). A solid 5-4 chance, Kingsbrae Di accounted for 7-1 shot Glad by two and a half lengths while Quick Feet Elite finished third, a further length away in 23.43. The win was Kingsbrae Di’s 32nd from 89 starts and, despite having won at Wentworth Park in a smart 30.21 over 520m, the daughter of Solve The Puzzle has been especially effective in shortcourse events at Lismore, Casino and Grafton and has won from every box. In the Stayers Cup, the widely travelled Holly Rock safely held powerhouse finisher Miss Grub at bay to score by three and a half lengths in 35.96. The win came as a welcome return to form for Holly Rock and it was the drop back in distance from her most recent 715m assignments at Sandown to Grafton’s 610m which proved critical. Special Phantom was third in the $3150 final. The three placegetters dominated betting and, collectively, boast a massive 54 career wins.

SUPER FOUR FOR SUPERSTAYERS

2007-06-15T09:57:00.001+01:00

THE first four home in last week's Group 1 Albion Park Gold Cup have been invited to contest the four-dog Superstaters 710m on July 5.And the connections of Miss Grub, Miss Brook, Ellie's Diamond and Flashing Floods have all indicated a willingness to run.Brisbane Club general manager Luke Gatehouse said the trainers of the respective runners had until June 25 to accept the invitation.The Superstayers, sponsored by Hawkins Media, will be worth $20,000 with the winner to receive $15,000, second $3000, third $1500 and fourth $500.Miss Grub, Miss Brook and Flashing Floods are all off to Victoria to contest the McKenna Memorial at Sandown."I have already been told by the Dart, Felgate and Edwards kennels they will be certain runners depending on everything going to plan in Melbourne, and the Flashing Floods kennel is keen to run as well," said Gatehouse.The Superstayers 710m follows on from the great success of the Black Enforcer Queens of the Creek last year won by Miss Brook.The four invited bitches have won 12 Group races between them with only Ellie's Diamond not a Group 1 winner.

TRACK KNOWLEDGE STAR INGREDIENT

2007-05-25T14:07:00.001+01:00

ILLUSION Star comes into Saturday night's NQ Intercity Challenge (410m) in Cairns with a decided advantage.Denis Godfrey's high class bitch has already unofficially broken the track record.She boasts a record of six wins and two seconds from just eight starts over 410m.Five of her rivals are making their debut on the Cairns track.And she is perfectly boxed in the eight.The Hallucinate-Fourway Star bitch is the hottest of favourites for the rich final.She ran 23.63 in a hand-timed performance which wold have eclipsed the track record in winning the Cairns final of the Challenge.So the Challenge for her rivals is daunting to say the least.Illusion Star's litter brother Four Way Classic added to the family reputation when a finalist in the Eric Thomson Memorial final at the Gold Coast on Wedneasday night.It was a huge performance from him to miss the start hopelessly and still finish fourth.His sister should restore the family tradition on Saturday night.

WATCH THE INDIANS

2007-05-04T22:19:00.000+01:00

SHE may have started a rank outsider, but Chiraquois’ victory in her heat of the Flying Amy Classic (520m) at Albion Park on Thursday night was no surprise for Michael and Robyn Briant.The daughter of No Intent-Fire Ball led throughout to win by half a length over Marinos with two lengths to Sam Beau Stanley in third in 30.41.“She is not a dog to settle in the kennels and that’s what caused her failure at Albion Park last Friday,” said owner Robyn.“In an early race tonight we always thought she would be a great chance. And when she jumped in front, we were confident nothing would run her down.”The Briants were successful owners 18 years ago racing dogs like Dynamic Success, the winner of 30 races, as well as Outa This World and Only Ivory.“Old age is upon us and we decided we needed something to do so we got back into greyhound racing,” said Robyn.She and Michael searched through southern greyhound papers and came up with a few pups to buy, one of which is Chiraquois.“We bought her from a Victorian breeder when she was 10 months old and when she arrived we couldn’t believe at what fantastic condition she was in,” she said.The Briant’s only other racing dog broke a leg at the Gold Coast a few weeks ago and Chiraquois fretted badly.“We had to bring some pups in from the paddocks to the kennels and she’s been as good as gold ever since,” said Robyn.The dog is named after the American Indian tribe.“I’m concerned about the final next week because she will be in a late race,” said Robyn. “She’s only young and hasn’t learned to settle in the kennels.”Chiraquois reeled off a winning 5.76 first section to set up her victory.