Key points:
- Crayford greyhound track to close after 38 years, citing declining attendance and trainer participation
- Entain has launched an enhanced greyhound rehoming program off the back of the closure, including international initiatives
- Iconic events like the Golden Jacket face an uncertain future following the closure
Entain has announced the closure of the Crayford greyhound track, ending 38 years of operations at the site.
Opened in 1986 by Ladbrokes, Crayford replaced the Crayford and Bexleyheath track, which operated from 1932 to 1985.
The closure marks a significant moment in UK greyhound racing, particularly as Crayford has long been a hub for the sport.
Commenting on the decision to close the site, Simon Clare, Entain UK Communications Director, stated: “We are saddened to announce the intended closure of the Crayford greyhound track. We have been exploring various avenues to avoid this decision for some time but, ultimately, it is no longer viable for us to continue operating the site.
“The dwindling support for the venue has led to insufficient trainer interest, fewer competitive racedays and, therefore, lower attendance which has sadly driven our decision to close.”
Building upon this, Clare went on to add: “Only 18 per cent of races at Crayford this season have been six-dog races, substantially below the 90 per cent target.”
Off the back of the closure, Entain has committed to supporting affected staff and trainers, offering consultations and assistance with transitions to other tracks.
Good to know: Clare confirmed that 14 greyhounds have already been rehomed through an initiative in the US
Additionally, a rehoming program for displaced greyhounds is being implemented, with new partnerships in the UK, US and Canada.
The closure also casts uncertainty on Crayford’s iconic events, including the Golden Jacket competition and the track’s status as a key venue for hurdle racing.
Notably, this year’s 714m Golden Jacket winner, Dazl Rolex, may go down in history as the final champion of the event.
Despite this, Entertain emphasised its continued commitment to greyhound racing, confirming that its remaining tracks at Romford, Hove and Monmore will not be impacted.
