Hundreds of first-time racegoers will experience the thrill of live greyhound racing at Nottingham Stadium on bank holiday Monday, thanks to headline sponsor Jenningsbet.
The national bookmaker, which operates over 200 shops across the UK, is providing free transport to 300 of its customers and employees with several pick-up points organised ahead of Nottingham’s bank holiday showpiece.
Guests of the meeting’s title sponsor will watch 12 races trackside, including the Category One Jenningsbet Puppy Classic final, the 73rd running of the Jenningsbet Select Stakes and Jenningsbet Select Stayers.
The feature races will kickstart Nottingham Stadium’s National Greyhound Week celebrations, with champion racers Mickys Barrett and Blue Trooper set for special returns to the Colwick Park venue while one of its homing partners Seaside Greyhounds will be onsite too.
Derek Somers, Retail Performance Manager at Jenningsbet, hopes the move will prompt a new wave of regular racegoers among its employee and customer base.
“We’re very proud to support Nottingham’s bank holiday card and can’t wait for a great evening of racing,” said Derek. “Greyhound racing is part of the national sporting fabric, and we wholly appreciate the work of everyone in the industry who contributes to its operation.
“Many of our employees and customers haven’t had the opportunity to watch a race live before, so we’re using National Greyhound Week as a lever to get people trackside and see the action first-hand.
“No words can quite describe the experience of watching a greyhound run in full flight fulfilling its instincts. We hope our guests have a wonderful night and return trackside in the future.”
Headlining Nottingham’s sparkling card is the Jenningsbet Puppy Classic, featuring ante-post favourite and new track record holder March On Freddie, which will be followed by the Jenningsbet Select Stayers.
The Jenningsbet Select Stakes has attracted a star field too, including Premier Greyhound Racing Puppy Derby champion Untold Dollar and runner-up Barntick Bear.
Romeo Command – runner-up in the 2023 England Greyhound Derby – also features with multiple Category One champion Links Maverick and defending Premier Greyhound Racing Eclipse champion Newinn Syd.
Irish challenger Unanimouspanther is also confirmed to run.
Derek added: “March On Freddie is clearly the standout greyhound. Personally, I can’t see how he can be beaten – he’s that good and impressive.
“But, anything is possible at this level and we wish all greyhounds and their connections the very best for what will be a memorable Puppy Classic final.
“I’m really intrigued by the draw for Untold Dollar and Barntick Bear in the Select Stakes – which is effectively a re-match of this year’s Premier Greyhound Racing Puppy Derby.
“All greyhounds are worthy of their place in the final. But I feel the story of the race could develop from the two inside traps. In the Stayers, Bubbly Scorcher takes my eye and Nottingham’s big galloping track should suit his running style.”
David Evans, general manager at Nottingham Stadium, said: “Our thanks go to Jenningsbet and Derek for being such strong supporters of our Puppy Classic, Select Stakes and Select Stayers card.
“To bring so many first-time racegoers trackside is testament to the team’s enthusiasm for the sport and we wish them an enjoyable evening.”
Nottingham Stadium opens its doors at 5.30pm on Monday, August 26, for its showpiece summer fixture. Admission is free for all racegoers with the first of 12 races due off at 6.37pm.
