- UK’s largest racecourse operator invests additional £285,000 in graded racing prize money
- Investment forms part of ARC’s vision to reduce sprint race volume by 2029
- Changes effective from October 1 and apply to all five ARC greyhound stadia
Arena Racing Company has announced a major prize money boost for all four and six-bend graded races across its five greyhound stadia, totalling an additional £285,000 annually.
The UK’s largest racecourse operator will increase prize money for all graded runners by £5 from Thursday, October 1, to incentivise more four and six-bend races while reducing the volume of sprint contests from its current level in the next two years.
The significant investment applies to each of ARC’s five greyhound tracks, which include Central Park in Sittingbourne and Dunstall Park in Wolverhampton, plus Nottingham, Sunderland and Newcastle.
Prize money boosts will apply to almost three-quarters (74 per cent) of races currently hosted by ARC with the operator also upgrading existing trainer contracts in recognition of its commitment to its loyal trainer and owner base.
Dave Baldwin, Head of Racing (Greyhounds) at Arena Racing Company, said reinvesting back into the sport’s roots amid challenging financial constraints is a key priority.
“Owners and trainers represent the backbone of our sport,” said Dave.
“It is their enthusiasm and dedication to racing and the greyhounds in their care which make our programme possible and bring enjoyment to the tens of thousands of racegoers we welcome through our turnstiles each year.
“We’re pleased to deliver this significant investment into our schedule which brings an additional £285,000 in prize money to those at the heart of our graded racing model.
“It is our vision to grow the number of four and six-bend races from its current 74 per cent frequency across the group by the conclusion of 2028, and we hope this initiative can help achieve that.”
As part of the move, Newcastle Stadium will benefit from an additional £80,000 in graded prize money.
The Byker track hosts more than 2,600 four and six-bend graded races annually, each of which will be subject to a £30 prize money boost for races featuring six greyhounds.
Ian Walton, General Manager at Newcastle Greyhound Stadium, added: “Graded racing sets the foundation for a positive and healthy future for greyhound racing in England.
“It’s critical to our operation at Newcastle Stadium and should be treated accordingly.
“We’re really pleased to be in a position – particularly during times of such economic uncertainty – where we can accommodate such a significant boost to our prize money levels.”
