Towcester Racecourse would like to clarify kennelling procedures for greyhounds participating in the forthcoming Star Sports & TRC English Greyhound Derby.
Kennelling will be split into two groups to ensure the highest standards of welfare are adhered to at all times in line with the Greyhound Board of Great Britain’s (GBGB) ‘Rules of Racing’.
Greyhounds competing in races one to six between 6.04pm and 7.30pm will be able to access our state-of-the-art, air conditioned, kennels anytime between 4.30pm and 5.15pm at the trainer’s discretion.
A secondary kennelling operation will start at 6.30pm and run until 7pm for greyhounds participating in later races between 7.48pm and 9.20pm. This process has been implemented to assist trainers and minimise the length of time dogs are kennelled.
Trainers will be required to nominate which kennelling times they will attend for each greyhound to ensure appropriate veterinary and kennelling provisions can be in place.
James Chalkley, Racing Director at Towcester Racecourse, said: “Following discussions with the Greyhound Board of Great Britain, we can confirm two kennelling procedures will take place throughout race nights of the English Greyhound Derby.
“Our procedures will meet Rule 112 of the GBGB’s Rules of Racing, meaning racing can continue while additional kennelling takes place without requirement for a break.
“Every greyhound will be inspected upon arrival at Towcester Racecourse and subject to a thorough medical examination by our team of onsite veterinary experts.
“Welfare is the foremost priority of the English Greyhound Derby, and no corners will be cut in ensuring the care and attention greyhounds receive onsite is of the highest standards.”
The Star Sports & TRC English Greyhound Derby begins on Thursday, May 19, with Heats One to 10 taking place. The remaining 22 heats for Round One will happen on Friday, May 20, and Saturday, May 21, evenings.
