Greyhound Racing New Zealand continues to celebrate its centenary year, with the New Zealand Breeders’ Stakes event taking place on Friday night in Wanganui.

With only New Zealand-bred greyhounds eligible to compete for the $30,000 prize, the NZ Breeders’ Stakes will determine the best restricted age, Kiwi-bred chaser in the country, and the competition is expected to be extremely keen.

Ross Gove, Racing Manager for Greyhound Racing New Zealand, says increased interest in events like the NZ Breeders’ Stakes show the days when Greyhound racing struggled for profile against galloping and harness racing are over.

“People have suddenly ‘switched on’ to Greyhounds. Attendance is up and competition is fierce. There are over 4000 races this season alone.”

This year marks the centenary of Greyhound Racing New Zealand, and the NZ Breeders’ Stakes is just one of a number of important races, culminating in the ‘Platinum Paws’ centenary event, which sees the highest stake ever in a Greyhound race in New Zealand – $250,000.

“We believe the growth has a lot to do with people responding to the quick-fire excitement of Greyhound racing – the meetings are fast and full-on,” says Ross Gove.

“And the dogs themselves are a source of fascination. They’re like purpose-built speed machines.”

For further information:

Ross Gove

Racing Manager

Greyhound Racing New Zealand

Mobile: 021 587 729