Dunstall Park Greyhound Stadium has appointed a senior leadership team who will operate the launch of the first track to be built from scratch in the UK for more than a decade.
Chris Black will oversee the introduction of greyhound racing to the popular Wolverhampton venue as General Manager with Emma Miller transferring her role from Perry Barr as Duty Manager.
Experienced Racing Manager Martin Seal will also switch from the Birmingham venue, while Jonny Shahban has been confirmed as Head Groundsman ahead of the track’s launch in September.
Decades of experience
Together, they hold more than six decades’ experience in the industry which nationally employs 7,000 people and contributes £166 million to the British economy.
General Manager Chris has worked in greyhound racing all his life having started as a casual member of the catering team at the now closed Hall Green Stadium.
He said the launch of Dunstall Park represents a fantastic opportunity for the sport to engage new audiences.
“There’s so much enthusiasm from the team to make Dunstall Park Greyhound Stadium a success story for the sport,” said Chris. “We’re inheriting outstanding customer facilities which will take our ability to deliver a fun, family friendly, and cost-effective night out to new levels.
“Likewise, our racing and kennelling provisions have been developed using the very latest technology and knowledge to ensure welfare is at the heart of every aspect of our operation.
“The response to our plans on and off the track has been overwhelmingly positive from those within the industry, plus our casual racegoers.
“We’re excited by the challenge, and on a personal note I’m pleased to have the support of such a knowledgeable team who can drive this project forwards.”
READ MORE: Racing League racegoers open their hearts to retired greyhounds ahead of Dunstall Park launch
Four weekly fixtures
Once open, Dunstall Park will host four weekly fixtures including Wednesday and Friday evenings, plus Monday mornings and Thursday afternoons.
Its first fixture which will be open to the public will be held on Friday, September 19.
The track’s first major event is planned for Friday, October 24, when it hosts the final of the prestigious Premier Greyhound Racing Oaks.
The competition was first held in 1927 and will be one of four Category One events – the highest level of UK greyhound racing – to be held at the track annually.
Martin Seal will be responsible for Dunstall Park’s racing operation once it opens and will lead a team of four in the racing office.
He quit his career as a stockbroker to become a paddock steward in 2003 and has worked in the industry since.
Born to run
“Greyhounds are wonderful animals, which is what attracted me to the sport,” said Martin.
“There are few better sights than watching a greyhound run in full flight. They are natural athletes that are born to run, and have such a wonderful nature off the track which makes them the perfect family pet in retirement.
“Leading the racing office is a tremendous opportunity and one I’m proud to accept. For anyone who hasn’t yet experienced the thrill of live racing, a night out at Dunstall Park simply has to be on your to do list.”
Further information about Dunstall Park Greyhound Stadium is available online via www.wolverhampton-racecourse.co.uk.
