“Mark Bird has done a great job taking on these charities over trying to ban greyhound racing. It is absolute bullshit, they are 15 years too late.”
Multi track promoter Kevin Boothby does not hold back when it comes to his views on the ‘anti racing’ movement and he is particularly irritated with the three charities who have called for a ban on greyhound racing: RSPCA, Dogs Trust & Blue Cross.
Mark Bird’s open letter to the charities
Boothby said: “We’ve had it from day one at Oxford. We’ve taken them on, at the same time we have invited them here to see what we do. Needless to say, there have been no takers. We are completely transparent in how we operate. Since we have opened, not a single dog has been put to sleep at Oxford. The thing is, these antis don’t want the truth, they can’t handle it.
“I agree with Mark Bird. These organisations have been taken over by animal rights activists and they see greyhound racing as an easy target. Fifteen years ago, they might have had something to work with. But the Greyhound Board, who I haven’t always agreed with on all matters, have done an incredible job. The re-homing, the help with injuries and general improvements have been different class.
“I am the biggest owner in the sport. I have four retired dogs at home who I worship and none of my dogs are ever put to sleep at the end of their careers. We can never be complacent or ease up, but this sport has nothing to feel embarrassed about or to fear. We have done everything the Government has asked us to do and more.”
Boothby has also confirmed that he is preparing to rejoin the trade body of greyhound track promoters – the RCPA.
Things continue to progress at Oxford which commences its first major event since re-opening with the first round of the RPGTV Cowley Puppy Collar on Friday.
In addition to the open racing, Kevin is hopeful that the stadium kitchen will be operating for the first time this week.
He said: “We hoped to be ready last weekend but the main extractor fan blew up shortly after we got it going. It was one we inherited so we weren’t too surprised. The replacement is here and is being fitted so we should be ready to go.
“It is the next stage for the stadium. We will be able to accommodate 400 covers in the restaurant which takes us up to the next level. We are already inundated with enquiries for Christmas bookings and we haven’t dared market it until now, so I am very hopeful.”
After near misses with second and third in last week’s PGR St.Leger at Perry Barr, Boothby has already saved himself some time by making out the Hunt Cup winner’s cheque to the KSS Syndicate. The first round takes place at Towcester on Sunday.
He said: “I saw Rab’s comments on your website and obviously we are all wasting our time even turning up. But the old girl (Savana Volcano) will be giving it a go on a track that she knows like her back garden and I thought Savana Spartacus was desperately unlucky last week. I’m expecting him to go well. No pressure Rab!
“Diane (Henry) suggested that Savana Ruinart should take her place in the Oaks. Given the way she led Havana Lover – and we all know what she is capable of doing over four bends – I think she could surprise a few people.
“Overall, I am satisfied with how things are going at Towcester. The Sunday afternoons have really picked up in the last few weeks. Without a (betting shop) contract we can’t justify racing on a Saturday night, it costs a fortune in electricity alone. But we are planning for pop concerts and other events for next year, along with all our Cat Ones and the Derby. I reckon the place is now firmly established as the home of the English Derby.”
