Following the closure of Crayford Track a couple of weeks ago, Guy Kelly of the Telegraph published this article on greyhound racing.
Certainly makes for an interesting read on the past and current state of the industry, but the comments section is where the interesting stuff is to be found…
Whilst there are a lot of people who understand the plight of these animals both during and after their racing career, there is a frankly staggering amount who are in flat-out denial.
The poll below says it all, really.
The closure of Crayford is just the most recent blow to the crumbling racing industry. In the 1940s, there were 77 registered tracks; that number now sits at 19. The demise of the independent circuit is even more impressive, going from over 200 tracks to just one, Thornton Stadium in Scotland.
So, regardless of how many of those in the comments love a “night at the dogs”, the fact remains; the sport is fading, fast. But perhaps more importantly, people are becoming aware as to the true nature of the industry.
“The sport was introduced to Britain 99 years ago but, with interest waning and calls from activists to ban it, it may not live long past 100”
Here’s to hoping, eh?