Following on from the BHA’s announcement earlier this week on their plans for owners to return to racecourses from 29 March, GBGB has confirmed that any decision to admit owners ahead of the general public will be made on a track-by-track basis.

Mark Bird, GBGB Managing Director, said:

“Given their patience and support over the past year, we know that many owners will be seeking clarification on when they can return to the track to watch their greyhounds race.

“To confirm, this decision is not one that we are able to take as regulator; tracks are subject not only to government guidance, but also local authority decision-making. I have, however, spoken to many of our stadia to ascertain their plans and can confirm that the majority intend to welcome owners back alongside the general public from 17 May when they will also re-open their indoor hospitality.

“It is clear that all tracks are keen to prioritise their owners but we must aware that, as a sport, we are in a different situation to horseracing when it comes to facilities and space. A number of tracks still have staff on furlough until they are able to reopen fully and must continue to prioritise the health and safety of any visitors.

“Our stadia and licensees have done incredibly well in implementing our Covid-19 procedures so that our sport has continued to run successfully behind closed doors. Stadia are all busy planning ahead for a safe reopening and, on their return, we hope that owners are applauded for their continued commitment and investment in our sport.”