Greyhound Racing NSW announces 2024-25 racing schedule
Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW) has recently announced an update, to its racing schedule for the 2024–25 season.
The changes include the addition of two nighttime racing slots and the introduction of Country Class race meetings.
One major change is the relocation of Wentworth Park, Sydney's racing venue, to Thursday nights.
This adjustment aligns NSW with metropolitan clubs across Australia, such as Sandown Park in Victoria, Angle Park in South Australia, Albion Park in Queensland and Hobart in Tasmania.
According to GRNSW Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Rob Macaulay, aligning their premier venue with the biggest night of the week was a primary goal.
However, it was equally important to maintain Dapto's Thursday night slot.
The new schedule successfully achieves both objectives while providing benefits to the industry.
Dapto's famous Thursday night Greyhound meetings will continue as scheduled, ensuring consistency for participants and fans.
Furthermore, a new Wednesday night racing slot has been secured for Taree's Mid-North Coast club once it is completed.
Starting July 1, the updated calendar will introduce Country Class race meetings that will feature 56 new TAB events tailored for lower-tier racing greyhounds.
These meetings will come with an increase in prize money, including a 45% increase in maiden prizes and over a 70% increase in prizes for grades.
Venues hosting TAB Country Class meetings will include Dubbo, Goulburn, Wagga, Gunnedah, Taree and Muswellbrook.
The inaugural event is set to take place as a twilight meeting at Goulburn on July 1.
Once the upgrades at Lithgow are finished, this venue will host Monday twilight race meetings while Country Class racing shifts to Saturday mornings.
Macaulay noted; “This coordination brings benefits to participants, stakeholders and fans alike.
It fosters predictable racing schedules while creating more opportunities for regional greyhounds and trainers.”