Greyhound racing in Britain: a cultural legacy at the crossroads

Greyhound racing is a unique part of British cultural heritage, combining the thrill of speed with the competitive spirit of wagering. Having journeyed from an aristocratic pastime to a beloved working-class leisure activity, this sport now finds itself at a crossroads. The recent closure of Crayford Greyhound Track, an iconic venue located southeast of London, marks the end of an era in its 90-year history. Afisha.London magazine takes a closer look at the evolution of this fascinating sport.

The origins of greyhound racing

Modern greyhound racing traces its roots to hare coursing, which emerged in England in 1776. This traditional pastime involved greyhounds chasing live hares, with the animals allowed a head start. Capable of reaching speeds up to 70 km/h, the greyhounds provided a captivating spectacle.

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In 1912, American inventor Owen Patrick Smith revolutionised the sport with the creation of the mechanical hare, which eliminated the need for live animals. The innovation reached Britain in 1926, sparking the construction of oval tracks and the formation of the Greyhound Racing Association.

Photo: Steve Nash / facebook.com/GreyhoundBoardofGreatBritain

Unexpectedly, greyhound racing found its primary audience not among the upper classes but in the working-class communities. Tracks were conveniently located near urban centres, and races were held in the evenings, making them accessible and affordable entertainment. Betting opportunities added an extra layer of excitement, while low entry fees made the sport a mass phenomenon. By 1946, greyhound racing was at its zenith, with 75 million spectators attending races and an industry turnover of over £196 million.

Interestingly, while mechanical hare racing was modernised early on, hare coursing was not outlawed in the UK until 2008.

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Crayford Greyhound Track: the end of an era

One of Britain’s most iconic racing venues, Crayford Greyhound Track, opened in 1932 in southeast London. Acquired by bookmaker Ladbrokes in 1984, the track saw its footprint reduced to just 5 acres.

After nearly a century of hosting races, Crayford Greyhound Track closed its doors permanently in January 2025, citing declining attendance. The closure is a significant blow to the sport, leaving London with only one remaining licensed venue, Coral Romford Greyhound Stadium, to carry forward the legacy of greyhound racing.

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Betting and the culture of greyhound racing

Betting has always been an integral part of greyhound racing, amplifying the adrenaline of the sport. Historically, bets were placed at the tracks, contributing to the lively atmosphere of the events. Today, however, the majority of betting occurs online, making participation accessible even to those who don’t attend in person.

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Various betting options exist, from simple wagers on winners to intricate combinations, allowing enthusiasts to test their knowledge and intuition. Despite its challenges, betting remains a vital part of the industry, sustaining public interest in the sport.

Photo: facebook.com/GreyhoundBoardofGreatBritain

Can greyhound racing still make millionaires?

Achieving financial success in greyhound racing is rare but not impossible. Notable examples include:

Fernando Bale: The first greyhound in the world to earn over $1 million in prize money. By 2015, Fernando Bale had amassed $1,299,370. Post-retirement, he became a prized stud dog, with his stud fee reaching $12,000 per procedure in 2024.

Valpolicella: Another star greyhound, approaching $1 million in prize money by 2024.

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Such success stories are the exception rather than the rule. Significant investments, consistent victories in major events, and rigorous training are prerequisites for profitability. Beyond racing, revenues can come from breeding, selling, and leasing greyhounds. Retired champions often transition into lucrative careers in stud farming.

The state of the industry today

The greyhound racing industry in the UK is overseen by The Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB), established in 2009. GBGB enforces stringent standards for dog welfare, ensures safety at tracks, and facilitates rehoming programmes for retired greyhounds.

There are currently 20 licensed tracks across the country, with Coral Romford Greyhound Stadium being the sole remaining venue in London.

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The future of greyhound racing

The industry faces numerous challenges, including declining attendance, competition from alternative forms of entertainment, and growing scrutiny over animal welfare. Nevertheless, greyhound racing is adapting by improving conditions for the dogs, embracing new technologies, and offering enhanced experiences for spectators.

The closure of Crayford Greyhound Track symbolises the end of a golden era, yet greyhound racing continues to attract a dedicated following. As a cherished part of Britain’s cultural fabric, it remains a testament to the enduring appeal of tradition and sport.

Photo cover: Steve Nash / facebook.com/ GreyhoundBoardofGreatBritain

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