Towcester confirmed as 2025 Derby host, event moves forward

THE 2025 Star Sports/TRC English Greyhound Derby at Towcester will have a slot two weeks earlier than this year.

The GBGB’s open-race planning committee also announced on Friday evening that the PGR St Leger and Oaks will have the same September and October slots but new venues next year.

The St Leger moves, as a one-off, to Nottingham, with the new circuit which is to be constructed at Dunstall Park Racecourse in Wolverhampton as a replacement for redevelopment-bound Perry Barr getting the Oaks just weeks after it is due to open.

The Derby will run from Thursday 8th May when the opening of three first round nights will be staged through to a final on Saturday 14th June with the scheduling avoiding clashes with Royal Ascot and the British Grand Prix at nearby Silverstone.

GBGB racing operations executive Scott Harvey said: “Everyone dreams of getting a dog through to the English Greyhound Derby Final - it doesn’t get any bigger - and there will be plenty of trainers and owners wanting to have a go at it again next year, taking on the very best in training.

“With the dates now confirmed for the sport’s premier event, the industry can start to plan ahead while the open-race planning committee moves its focus on producing another exciting schedule of major events for 2025.”

Towcester MD Kevin Boothby said: “It is our privilege to hold the English Greyhound Derby at Towcester Racecourse for the fifth successive year.“This is the most prestigious event in British greyhound racing, and we look forward to once again showcasing the very best talent.

“We are extremely proud of the achievements of the last few years and excited to see how the next chapter unfolds.”

Star Sports’ owner Ben Keith said:“This year's Derby was both professional and great fun.  Let's have the same again, please.  All eyes on June Boothby to keep producing the goods with the Jam Roly Poly!"

The GBGB will shortly be asking all tracks to submit details for ‘established’ and ‘new’ events for 2025.

These will then be announced once they have been organised into a cohesive schedule, and GBGB will aim to publish a calendar for the racing year by mid-November.