By CHIMPREPORTS
As we welcome the new year, greyhound racing enthusiasts are gearing up for an exciting calendar in 2024 — filled with thrilling competitions that promise to captivate both casual fans and ardent followers of the sport.
To ensure you don’t miss a single moment, we’ve compiled a guide to some of the most significant greyhound races in the UK and Ireland — offering a glimpse into the excitement that awaits on the tracks.
English Greyhound Derby: A national spectacle
Kicking off our list is the English Greyhound Derby, a race that stands as a pinnacle in the world of greyhound racing.
Boasting an impressive winning prize purse of £175,000, this prestigious event has traversed various venues since its inception at White City in 1927 — including Harringay, Wimbledon, and Nottingham.
Currently hosted at Towcester, the Greyhound Derby final is set to take place on June 29 — promising an unforgettable display of speed and skill, and the betting on greyhound market for the prestigious race will be wide open.
Irish Greyhound Derby: The cream of Ireland’s crop
Once part of the sought-after Triple Crown alongside the English and now discontinued Scottish Greyhound Derbies, the Irish Greyhound Derby continues to be a highlight in the racing calendar.
Now held at Shelbourne Park in south Dublin, this race offers a substantial €300,000 prize — with €125,000 going to the victor.
From Harold’s Cross to Limerick and Cork, the Irish Derby has a rich history — finding its permanent home at Shelbourne Park since 1986, where greyhounds compete in just over 500 meters.
The Select Stakes: Exclusive invitations at Nottingham
A unique entry on our list is The Select Stakes, an invitation-only race held at Nottingham Greyhound Stadium since 1996.
The Select Stakes was inaugurated at Wembley Stadium in 1952, but when the iconic London venue was set to be redeveloped, it was moved to Nottingham and has remained there ever since.
This 500-metre race offers a £7,500 prize for the winner and is set to take place on August 26, with the event promising exclusive competition and an electric atmosphere for racegoers.
Golden Jacket: Crayford’s touch of glamour
Crayford Stadium in the London Borough of Bexley takes centre stage with the Golden Jacket, an event that adds a touch of glamour to greyhound racing.
Set to be held on February 2024 this coming season, this competition features top-class greyhounds vying for the prestigious Golden Jacket title.
With a rich history and a reputation for attracting elite talent, the Golden Jacket is a must-watch event for fans seeking a perfect blend of competition and elegance.
Honourable mentions: A quick glimpse at some other headliners
In addition to the marquee races already mentioned, other notable events include the Kent St. Ledger, TV Trophy, the Oaks, the Regency Cup, and the Sussex Cup — each contributing to the diverse and dynamic landscape of greyhound racing in the UK and Ireland.
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As the calendar unfolds, these races promise to deliver memorable moments and showcase the extraordinary athleticism of these remarkable dogs.
Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a newcomer to the sport, the 2024 greyhound racing season is set to be a thrilling journey filled with anticipation, excitement, and the pursuit of victory on the tracks.
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