Why Is Greyhound Racing Failing To Catch The Crowds?
Monday 2nd June 2008
As news filters through to the market that Walthamstow greyhound track has been sold to a property developer, bring to an end decades of dog racing in the area, many are starting to wonder why dog racing has not faired better in the UK. We can bet on the dogs, they seem to get coverage in the press but the crowds are falling and prize money is under pressure.
Many are pointing the finger of blame at the betting industry and the lack of investment from bookmakers and betting exchanges. While the UK horse racing industry is catered for by regulations which require bookmakers to donate 10% of their gross profit back to the sport, there is a paltry 0.6% voluntary system for dog racing in the UK.
It seems that this lack of investment into the sport is starting to hit home with over 20 dog racing tacks having been closed over the last decade. While there is still a healthy core following for the sport there seems to be little new blood entering the sector. Without a substantial investment it seems that the sport of greyhound racing in the UK is under serious threat, a sport which has been around for decades.
As news filters through to the market that Walthamstow greyhound track has been sold to a property developer, bring to an end decades of dog racing in the area, many are starting to wonder why dog racing has not faired better in the UK. We can bet on the dogs, they seem to get coverage in the press but the crowds are falling and prize money is under pressure.