Dave Gray confirms hurdles trials to start at Star Pelaw

Hurdles set for Star Pelaw start

Star Pelaw racing manager Dave Gray says that hurdles trials will begin this week at the north east venue.

“It seems as an age in coming, but the introduction of hurdles racing will get one step nearer this week with the first trials taking place,” he said, confirming the Chester-le-Street track’s plans to reintroduce hurdles racing to the sport. No hurdles racing has taken place since Crayford closed.

“Ricky Holloway is making the long trip north with a couple of experienced hurdlers to test the layout of the hurdles.

“We’re also expecting the GBGB’s senior stipendiary steward Duncan Gibson to oversee the trials, plus Kim Sanzone, Star Sports’s head of greyhound operations, will also be in attendance.

“Hopefully, if all goes well, we’ll look to advertise some open-race hurdles events in the GBGB Calendar. Of course, the long-term aim is to reintroduce some of the prestigious open-race hurdle competitions back into the Calendar which were sadly missing in 2025.”

Meanwhile, Gray said a brace of winners for Sunderland trainer Carl Jackson was the highlight of the Sunday card at Star Pelaw.

“His Noelles Glenlo was made to work hard in the maiden stayers contest by Swift Yawn, but had a slight class edge which ultimately saw her get home by a head in 36.40.

“The performance of Carl’s Crafty Regalo was much more impressive to the eye when taking the second division of the 435m standard in 25.72. He had left plenty on the track last week in a trial when missing the break and getting tangled up at the second bend.

“The fact he wasn’t unbacked showed that plenty had taken the trial time and performance with a pinch of salt!”