We may be approaching the end of 2021, but there is still plenty to look forward to over the course of the remaining weeks and months in the sport of greyhound racing. Some of the biggest races may have already taken place this year, like the English Greyhound Derby, the East Anglian Cup, the Select Stakes and so on, but there is still a lot of top-class action to come, much to the delight of those who like to scour through the Betdaq greyhounds markets.
So, whether you’re on the hunt for a night at the dogs to celebrate Christmas with your mates or just looking out for big races to add to your calendar so you don’t miss out on the action, then this guide with all the major race nights over the festive period has got you covered. Read on to find out more!
27th November: Gold Collar and Cesarewitch – Crayford
Kick off the festive period in style at the end of November with a night at the races in Crayford that boasts not one, but two Category 1 contests. After being disbanded at Belle Vue back in 2009, the Gold Collar was rejuvenated at Crayford in 2015 and the race, which dates back to the 1930s, is already back to being one of the most popular events on the calendar.
The Cesarewitch is another historic race that has recently been readded to the greyhound racing calendar. First introduced back in 1928 as one of the original classics, the 874m race had several homes in its long history before being discontinued in 2012. Brought back to life at Romford last year, where Aayamza Royale added his name to the roll of honours, this year’s renewal had been rehomed once again at Crayford.
19th December: The Puppy Derby – Towcester
The biggest race in the sport for puppies, the Puppy Derby will take place back at Towcester this year, as the home of the English Greyhound Derby has reopened its doors following financial difficulties. Contested over 500 metres, the Category 1 race dates back to 1929 and took place at Wimbledon Stadium until its closure in 2016. Now in Nottinghamshire, it’s still a fan favourite and the perfect place to celebrate the festive period.
19th December: Champion Hurdle – Central Park
Spoiled for choice on the final weekend before Christmas, the Champion Hurdle will take place at Central Park on the same night the Puppy Derby is being held in Towcester. One of the most valuable greyhound races with jumps, behind only the Grand National and Springbok, the Champion Hurdle originated in 1990, making it one of the newer races on this list. Like the Puppy Derby, the Champion Hurdle was hosted at Towcester when Wimbledon closed their doors, but it was moved to Central Park upon the closure of Towcester and looks likely to remain there.
29th December: All England Cup – Newcastle
Inaugurated in 1938 and held at Newcastle Stadium ever since, the All England Cup attracts some of the best four-bend dogs in the country, including those who took part in the English, Irish, Scottish and Welsh Derbies earlier in the season. Contested over 480m, some notable names have scooped the £8,000 prize purse in the past and we’re sure this year’s renewal will be no different.
