“We are obviously aware of further concerns expressed about the Oxford starting traps following an incident in the 12.31pm race on Thursday when two greyhounds, one of who had done so previously, pre-empted the opening. As has already been announced, the starting traps at Oxford – and Towcester – are being replaced, and at Oxford this could be as soon as next week.
“I accept that perception is everything but rather than slow opening of the traps, which have been tested on multiple occasions, being the major issue, I now believe the occasional instances are being caused by the hare being too slowly past the traps.
“On Thursday, RPGTV did a comparison between the 12.31pm race and that which followed at 12.46pm which passed without incident and, while the hare was in the same position as traps opened, to my mind it was much too close.
“As such, the hare drivers at Oxford have been instructed to increase the hare speed passing the traps with immediate effect.
“We are as disappointed as everyone that attention has been deflected from what has been a fantastic RPGTV Cowley Puppy Collar but can assure that greyhound welfare will always remain our number one priority and we will act where appropriate.”
