The Star Sports Welsh Derby kicks off on Sunday at Valley

Welsh Derby returns this weekend

Star Sports believe the upcoming Welsh Derby at Valley, the draw for which was made on Thursday, is a great way to underline how the sport is stronger together as efforts to overturn a controversial and contested proposed ban continue

The revived former Classic, which will be run for the first time since the 1970s when six live-on-SIS heats of the Category Two event take place on Sunday over 460m, is being backed by English Derby sponsors Star Sports, whose head of greyhound racing operations Kim Sanzone says the company’s support underlines their commitment to the sport as a whole as owners of Star Pelaw track in the north east - and is delighted to see greyhound racing rally around the competition.

“The GBGB sent out a message reminding everyone of the closing date and trainers have responded positively,” said Sanzone. “Valley got a great entry and we’re set for three rounds - including what will be a special night on final night which Star Sports are supporting and inviting guests to attend.

“This is the inaugural Star Sports Welsh Greyhound Derby Final and final night on Saturday, October 3, at Valley racecourse will be a special occasion

“We want to use this opportunity to demonstrate our full support to our greyhound friends in Wales and hopefully together we can overturn the ban.

“As sponsors, we look forward to providing some wonderful hospitality and can assure everyone it will be a fun night and not one to be missed!”

Gates at Valley on October 3 will open at 5pm with supporting open races scheduled on the night.

Meanwhile, six heats of the Welsh Derby take place on Sunday, with the form below.