The A&S Leisure Group have announced a massive £400,000 track refurbishment scheme at Sheffield. In effect, it amounts to complete track replacement, from a new running rail, with improvements to sand profiles, drainage and equipment – writes Floyd Amphlett.
Venue Director Matthew Hamilton said: “The safety and welfare of the greyhounds are always at the forefront of our vision at the stadium. Owlerton prides itself on being one of the best in the industry for quality and hospitality. The upcoming renovations will mirror these values and pave the way for the future of racing. We anticipate that the major investment to Yorkshire’s premier greyhound track will encourage the support of visitors new and old’.
The stadium will be closed for a short period from the 25th of July 2022 through to the 1st of August 2022, before a grand reopening on the 2nd of August.
Racing Manager Andrew Mascarenhas said: “There has been plenty of work done on the track over the years but it has been piecemeal, mainly concentrating on the first and second bends. But we haven’t been happy with the consistency of the circuit overall so this should make a massive difference.
“I anticipate that as soon as this announcement gets out, the first thought will be ‘what about the Gain Three Steps To Victory?’ (due to conclude August 9). We’ve decided to put it back. There is no way did I want unfamilar dogs running on the circuit until we know it has settled down and where we stand with issues like watering.
“So I have applied to GBGB to move it to three Saturdays in September. We are just waiting for their approval. We already have the Steel City Cup and our new puppy comptition in October and we don’t want three Cat Ones in the same month.”
