The Ladbrokes 715, inaugurated in 2022 at The Gardens in Newcastle, New South Wales, has swiftly become Australia’s premier staying event in greyhound racing.
Initially offering a remarkable $500,000 to the winner, it was among the richest staying races globally.
However, due to budgetary constraints, Greyhound Racing New South Wales (GRNSW) announced in 2024 a reduction of the first-place prize to $250,000, effective from 2025.
The 2024 715 final was won by Tony Zammit’s Valpolicella, who broke the track record in a scorching time of 41.23.
Date: Friday, May 2, 2025
The 2025 715 final field will be announced after the running of the heats.
The Ladbrokes 715 attracts significant attention from punters, offering substantial betting pools and diverse wagering options.
Bookmakers typically release early markets a few months out, allowing enthusiasts to place futures bets on their preferred contenders well ahead of the event.
All-In bets with the likes of Neds Bookmaker and Bet365 are good ways to find high value with some dogs that are likely to be a short-priced favourite in the final.
However, the risk of all-in betting is injuries, whether the dog is nominating for the race, surviving the heats, or the dreaded box draw for the final.
As the race date approaches, fixed-odds betting becomes available with all the top online bookmakers, with odds fluctuating based on greyhound form, training reports, and box draw outcomes.
The unique 715-metre distance adds an extra layer of strategy for bettors, as assessing a greyhound’s stamina and performance over longer distances becomes crucial.
Our team here at Australian Racing Greyhound will have the betting strategy and our free greyhound tips available closer to race day.
Additionally, many betting platforms offer special promotions and bonuses tied to this marquee event, enhancing the betting experience and potential returns.
Check out which bookmaker codes accept our GETON sign-up code.
The Ladbrokes 715 was established to elevate the profile of staying races in Australia, offering unprecedented prize money to attract top-tier talent. The inaugural race in 2022 saw Miss Ezmae, trained by Jack and Maree Smith, overcome a challenging journey to the track due to vehicle troubles, leading throughout to secure victory in 41.65 seconds. This win was particularly memorable as it marked Miss Ezmae’s final race before retirement.
In 2023, the event delivered a thrilling finish with Zipping Orlando, trained by Minnie and John Finn, narrowly clinching victory over Nangar Rocket. Both greyhounds recorded identical times of 41.67 seconds, with the photo finish determining the winner. This edition highlighted the intense competition and high calibre of participants the race attracts.
The 2024 race witnessed a record-breaking performance by Valpolicella, trained by Tony Zammit. Starting as the favourite, Valpolicella led from the outset and set a new track record with a time of 41.23 seconds, surpassing the previous record held by Zipping Neutron. This dominant display underscored the event’s status as a showcase for exceptional staying talent.
Despite the reduction in prize money to $250,000 from 2025, The 715 remains Australia’s richest staying race, continuing to attract elite competitors and maintain its prestigious status in the greyhound racing calendar. This adjustment reflects broader financial recalibrations within the industry, ensuring the event’s sustainability while still offering a substantial reward for excellence in long-distance racing.
Beyond the on-track performances, The 715 has significantly impacted the greyhound racing landscape by elevating the profile of staying races and providing substantial financial incentives for trainers and owners to develop long-distance talent. The event has also bolstered regional racing in New South Wales, drawing attention to The Gardens track and contributing to the local community’s engagement with the sport. As the race continues to evolve, it promises to remain a cornerstone of the Australian greyhound racing calendar, celebrated for its competitive spirit and the remarkable stories that emerge each year.
| Year | Dist. | Winner | Margin | Time | Trainer | Runner-up | Boxes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 715m | Miss Ezmae | 1-1/2L | 41.65sec | Raymond Smith | Sound Of Silence | 1,5,8 |
| 2023 | 715m | Zipping Orlando | 1/2 Hd | 41.67sec | John Finn | Nangar Rocket | 2,5,1 |
| 2024 | 715m | Valpolicella | 6-1/2L | 41.23sec | Tony Zammit | Ritza Piper | 1,3,7 |