Inside View: The Last Greyhound Races in Wales Before the Sport is Banned
In a quaint town in Wales, the atmosphere crackles with anticipation as punters gather at Valley Greyhounds in Ystrad Mynach. The clock ticks towards 8pm on a drizzly Thursday, setting the stage for a snapshot of history in motion. Mandy Blankley’s voice cuts through the air, announcing the imminent race as the crowd eagerly shuffles towards the track. The scent of hot dogs mixes with cigarette smoke as the greyhounds prepare in their traps, ready to chase the mechanical hare darting ahead.
The thrill of the race permeates the air, echoing in the shouts of spectators as the dogs sprint around the sandy oval track. Cheers and groans erupt as Zack’s Rebel crosses the finish line first, claiming victory in the race. For Mandy and her husband Lee, who operates the hare, this adrenaline-fueled atmosphere is a way of life. Every race, every moment, carries a sense of passion and dedication to the sport they love.
Mark Gibson, a seasoned regular at Valley Greyhounds, finds solace in the familiar surroundings of the clubhouse, pint in hand, marking his scoring cards with his grandchildren. To him, greyhound racing is more than just a pastime – it’s a release, an escape from the mundane routine of daily life. The rush of watching the dogs in action, the camaraderie among fellow enthusiasts, all contribute to a sense of community and connection at the track.
Once a thriving hub of activity, Valley Greyhounds stands as Wales’ last remaining greyhound racing track in a landscape once dotted with over 10 such venues. In the face of changing times and shifting attitudes towards animal welfare, the sport now hangs in the balance as the Welsh Government moves towards a ban on greyhound racing. Decades of tradition and history stand on the brink of transformation, as debates and decisions shape the future of this beloved pastime.
As the spectre of a ban looms over Valley Greyhounds, the community rooted in this sport grapples with uncertainty and apprehension. Dave Barclay, the track’s current owner, faces the daunting prospect of closure, with the ban threatening to upend the very foundations of this local institution. Malcolm Tams, the former owner and a stalwart presence at the track, underscores the need for fair compensation and a dignified resolution as the future hangs in the balance.
Despite the looming ban and the challenges ahead, voices within the greyhound racing community remain steadfast in their support for the sport. Trainers like Marcus May, who have dedicated their lives to racing and caring for greyhounds, express a deep sense of devotion and affection for their canine companions. The bond between man and dog transcends mere competition, symbolising a shared history and a mutual love for the sport.
In the midst of debates and deliberations, the fate of greyhound racing in Wales hangs in the balance. While some advocate for a ban in the name of animal welfare, others argue for the preservation of a cherished tradition and a way of life. As the future unfolds and decisions are made, the legacy of greyhound racing in Wales stands at a crossroads, with the echoes of each race reverberating through the hearts of those who call Valley Greyhounds home.