Ian Smyth, the stadium director for the four Ladbrokes Coral tracks has clarified why today’s SIS meeting at Crayford has been cancelled due to the extreme weather but the Romford card has not.
He said: “The major concern at Crayford was the travelling. Some of the trainers have to come over the Dartford Bridge, and the hold-ups can be horrendous. We also have others travelling long distances, notably Jim Daly, who has been a victim of traffic issues in the past.
“As far as Romford is concerned, the trainers are generally located much closer. Bernie Doyle is the furthest away, and he doesn’t have runners today.
“But I must emphasise that I have been in touch with Mark in the racing office and told him quite clearly that there is no pressure to race. None. The greyhounds will come first. We have a cut-off time of 10.30am this morning for the vet to make a decision to go ahead. If the vet decides at any stage that there is any concern as to the welfare of the dogs, the meeting will be cancelled.”
