The four Entain tracks – Crayford, Hove, Monmore and Romford, are to introduce a new scheme designed to provide opportunities for a limited number of small trainers.
The idea is that each track will invite two handlers with hobby sized kennels (up to 10 runners), to run graded evetns with them.
The idea is the brainchild of Hove’s Daniel Rankin and has been supported by his boss Ian Smyth. Unlike many of his counterparts, Rankin has experience with small kennels, having successfully managed dozens of ‘ex-flappers’ during his time at Shawfield.
He said: “We are probably looking at people with four dogs each – roughly – though even then, some of those might be lame or in-season. There are various reasons for doing it though the main one is to give people a chance to get involved in racing.
“The days when the likes of Charlie Lister could learn his trade on the flaps are long gone. There are no grass roots venues left. When you look at the number of older trainers who will all retire within a short space of each other, it has to be a concern for the industry.”
“As far as Hove is concerned, the people that we take on may not even have a license at the moment. Or they maybe people who once worked in big kennels and have dropped out with no realistic chance of training again, particularly in the South East of England.”
The 4 tracks will provide suitable race days for the scheme which is listed below
Brighton and Hove – Thursday and Saturday Evenings
Crayford – Tuesday and Saturday evenings
Monmore – Thursday and Saturday Evenings
Romford – Saturday Evening
Applicants must apply in writing or can contact the relevant Racing Office for more information.
