Newcastle’s Director of Racing Stephen Gray admitted disappointment, but no surprise at the shortage of southern based runners on Newcastle’s William Hill All England Cup card.
He said: “It is what it is. Trainers aren’t travelling in the way they once did and there is little you can do about it. There are a lot of local runners, but they are good dogs in their own right and there is plenty of decent open racing including three very good finals.”
Despite carrying a £500 first prize (£50 others) for a one-off marathon over the 895m course, only three entries were received.
