Local families gathered at Romford Stadium on Monday to mark the start of National Greyhound Week (NGW) with a morning of exciting racing and family-friendly activities.

Children in attendance got the opportunity to meet retired racers, Marina (Mayses Marina), Bruno (Classic Bruno), and Albie (Hellofahoohah), from Romford Retired Greyhounds. They learnt more about the greyhounds’ racing history and saw for themselves what fantastic pets greyhounds they make after their careers on the track come to an end. The children also received a free activity pack and a special rosette from the track.Upon meeting the retired racers, one parent said:

“They are such wonderful dogs – if I had the room, I’d welcome them all into my home!”

The day marked the beginning of the second annual National Greyhound Week (NGW) delivered by the Greyhound Board of Great Britain GBGB) which is running from 26th August – 1st September. The week provides an opportunity for the greyhound community to celebrate the canine athletes and families at the heart of the sport, with many tracks across the country offering free entry and special events for families and children.

At Romford, encouraging children and families to get involved in the sport is something the track is committed to throughout the year. As part of their Romford Juniors initiative, the stadium hosts Junior Races every Saturday morning and on Bank Holidays where children get the chance to meet different retired greyhounds and see what wonderful pets they make.

Mark Arkell, Racing Manager at Romford Stadium, said:

“Our National Greyhound Week Family Fun Day was a huge success – it was excellent to see so many people in attendance, including many new faces!

“It was particularly lovely to see so many children interacting with the retired greyhounds, showing how they truly make such great pets. These wonderful animals are gentle giants, and even children who are initially wary of larger dogs feel right at ease once they stroke the greyhounds and realise how friendly and calm they are.

“Events like Monday’s are what it’s all about – spreading the right messages and educating people while enjoying some exciting racing!”

NGW celebrations will continue at Romford over the course of this week. As well as offering free entry, the track will be hosting the GBGB Roadshow on Friday evening which will see a free giveaway for children and the opportunity for adults to enter GBGB’s NGW Trap Challenge competition.