Towcester extra trial sessions
The GBGB crackdown on kenneling at Towcester is forcing the track to introduce additional trial sessions.
Under GBGB rules, no greyhound can be kennelled for racing more than one hour and 45 minutes before the first race. In addition, a second rule means that no greyhound can trial unless it has been kennelled for at least 40 minutes.
Towcester’s Head of Racing James Chalkey said: “Effectively, we have a 40 minute window when we will be able to trial dogs. We are allowing for eight trials to take place during that time. We will monitor it and will stage more if it is feasible. We have plenty of kennel space, it is all down to timing.
“However, given the forthcoming demand for Derby trials, we are having to reorganise our sessions. We are hoping to stage extra trial sessions in three Tuesdays in May, though that is dependent on us being able to arrange veterinary cover.”
The stewards inquiry following the suspension of Racing Manager Andy Lisemore (over alleged breaches of kenneling times) is due to take place a week today.
Worth checking out
Regular readers will recall various references in Editors Chair to the growth of greyhound racing in its early years and how it was stymied at every turn by governments of Parliamentary parties on both sides.
We were recently made aware – by reader Patrick Goode – of a book published five years ago by widely respected historian Professor Keith Laybourn. It isn’t cheap (£80 – There is a cheaper version available on Kindle) and it isn’t for everyone, but it is (as expected) fabulously researched.
If ever any greyhound follower underestimates the phenonemon of greyhound racing and the serial efforts to bring it to its knees, this should change their minds.
Here is a taster of the book itself.
MacMillan begins at Sunderland
A charity race night to raise funds and awareness of Macmillan Cancer Support is being held at Sunderland Greyhound Stadium on Friday.
The Newcastle Road venue will turn its interior green with bucket collections, a raffle and flyers bringing attention to the work of the national charity which supports an estimated two million people living with cancer annually.
A one-off hospitality package has been created too which includes a two-course meal, drinks reception, entry and a race card for guests with all profits committed to the final total.
Louis Pern – whose friend Jackie Teal trains at Sunderland Stadium – is helping to organise the fundraiser and hopes to see a positive turnout.
“Everyone will know someone whose life has been affected by cancer,” said Louis. “Macmillan play a crucial role providing care and support and we want Friday’s event to play a small role in the charity’s ongoing work to support people living with cancer.
“There’ll be lots going on through the evening for racegoers to get involved with and we thank everyone behind the scenes in advance who have helped make the evening possible.
“For every £100 Macmillan Cancer Support generates, 97% is funded through public donations so events of this kind are important in raising awareness and funds for the charity’s work.”
Since its formation in 1911, Macmillan Cancer Support has operated public campaigns, supported healthcare professionals, and fulfilled research into cancer care.
Today, a £20 donation helps run a Macmillan Online Community for over an hour while £30 covers the costs for a Macmillan nurse to provide essential medical, practical and emotional support for one hour.
The charity estimates three million people currently live with cancer in the UK – this figure is expected to rise to 5.3 million by 2040.
Joanne Wilson, General Manager at Sunderland Greyhound Stadium, added: “We’re always keen to support good causes either locally or nationally.
“We fortunate to be home to a close-knit community of racegoers who always turn out in numbers to support our fundraising events. Everyone has been touched by cancer either directly or indirectly and supporting people currently living with life-changing illnesses will resonate with a lot of our guests on the night.”
Doors open at 6.30pm with the first of 12 races on the night scheduled at 7.16pm. Charities interested in partnering with Sunderland Stadium and holding fundraising events are welcome to contact the venue via [email protected].
Further information about Macmillan and its work to help is available via Macmillan Cancer Support | The UK’s leading cancer care charity.
Opens
Thursday: Newcastle
Friday: Romford
Saturday: Hove ♦ Perry Barr ♦ Yarmouth
