Suffolk Downs may resume racing earlier than 2026 as work is ahead of schedule

Suffolk Downs may resume racing earlier than 2026 as work is ahead of schedule

2025 has already seen the closure of Crayford Stadium in January, as well as the impending closures of Perry Barr and Swindon and many will have thought that Suffolk Downs would be an addition to that list. After all, the last meeting took place at the Mildenhall venue on July 29th 2024 due to a fire the following day and a year on, there still hasn't been a return to racing and there are some who would suggest that a return is unlikely to happen.

But nothing could be further from the truth. 

Work is currently on-going at the Kevin Boothby-operated venue and whilst it is likely that racing will return in 2026, it remains possible that racing could return to Suffolk Downs at the back end of 2025 such is the progression of the work involved. 

Boothby is looking to take advantage of the situation and is looking to ensure that when Suffolk Downs does return to racing, it does so in a much stronger position than before, with the addition of new air conditioning in the reconstructed kennels, a new running rail and fibre and broadcasting equipment has been reinstated with all power and other essential services renewed. 

Boothby said: “Having gone through all the effort of reopening (Mildenhall) in the first place we’re not going to let a minor thing like a devastating fire stop us racing in the future!

"It was a very happy place for trainers and staff to work and everyone has been extremely patient and loyal working and running dogs at Towcester and Oxford over the last 12 months. It is important to repay that loyalty by bringing back Suffolk Downs.”

Director of racing James Chalkley added: “As the photos show, a lot of hard work is taking place in the background to ensure that everything at the track is reinstated in accordance with GBGB rules and standards."

"Progress has been quicker than expected and I look forward to announcing some positive news very shortly.”

Richard Brankley, head of greyhound operations for SIS, said: “I'm delighted to see the progress being made at Suffolk Downs which is testament to the resolve of all involved"

"Whilst there are no immediate plans for an increase in UK racing, there are geographical and logistical advantages in staging meetings at the track."