OXFORD Stadium bosses are forecasting their biggest crowd since greyhound racing returned earlier this year.
More than 1,500 people watched Stefans Jet become the first greyhound to win at Sandy Lane in 10 years, back in September.
New Year’s Day racing returns on Sunday evening with 11 Open races, the highest grade in UK greyhound racing.
In a first, the Cowley venue will operate races over all distances – 253m, 450m, 650m, 847m and 1,047m.
“It doesn’t matter if that doesn’t happen this year, the wheels don’t fall off and the business doesn’t collapse.”#oufc chief executive Tim Williams on the importance of the club being ready for promotionhttps://t.co/vFUUpwHs0B pic.twitter.com/6eiE5Hjhmu
— Oxford Mail OUFC (@OxfordMailOUFC) December 28, 2022
Kevin Boothby, Oxford Stadium managing director, said: “Our opening Gala Night was an extraordinary success.
“Our terraces and indoor viewing areas were packed, which to me proves greyhound racing has a future in the UK and Oxford can be at the heart of the sport’s revival.
“We want to establish greyhound racing as a cost-effective, alternative, fun and family-friendly night out which everyone can enjoy.
“Our New Year’s Day Gala Night will showcase everything that is great about our sport and allow racegoers to get up close to the action and the dogs who are undoubtedly the stars of our sport.
“We have an excellent 11-race all-open card programmed which no doubt will attract some of the UK’s big names.”
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