Newbridge stadium to close down

GREYHOUND followers received a shock yesterday with the news that Newbridge greyhound stadium will close to racing on Saturday week. However, it is hoped that the track could reopen in the near future if a backer can be found.

There have been rumours regarding a possible closure or change of ownership of the stadium but still the news came as a shock to many yesterday.

However, there are big hopes the franchise will yet be taken over by a group headed by Nottingham promoter and major Clonmel shareholder, Terry Corden

Though no official confirmation of any rescue package was forthcoming yesterday, Corden’s name has been mentioned behind the scenes.

The statement issued by Newbridge Greyhound Stadium yesterday morning read: “Newbridge Greyhound Racing Company has been in discussion over recent months with the Irish Greyhound Board in order to secure the future of Newbridge greyhound stadium.

“Over the last couple of years the consequences of the economic downturn has resulted in reduction of attendances, race sponsorship and the reduction in business activity in general at the stadium and as a result the stadium will close on Saturday, 26th March 2011.

“It is hoped the track will reopen in time under new track promoters.”

Newbridge is the home of the famed Cox Cup and also the Texacloth Puppy Derby and both events have been won by some of the legends of the track.

Greyhound racing first took place in Newbridge in 1950 on the mid-town site before moving to Cornelscourt, a mile-and-a-half from the town in 1972.

The Cox family have been the promoters of racing at the track over the years but this connection has now ended and it is hoped that somebody — whether it is the Corden group or somebody else — will move in to rescue the operation.