Sport

Life in the old dog: Greyhound industry fighting back as interest wanes

The sport’s pivot towards industry meetings and a focus on betting companies may see it survive longer than expected – even if numbers visiting the track keep declining

In 2019, an independent review recommended closure of tracks in Youghal, Enniscorthy, Lifford and Longford. Picture: Getty

For those who work with greyhounds, last week’s headlines were another reminder of media hostility that threatens the sport’s very future.

‘Bailed-out Youghal Greyhound Track attracts just three fans to each meeting’ reported the Irish Examiner, which paradoxically has far more coverage of the sport than any other national broadsheet. The article quoted an activist with an anti-greyhound racing body.

Are the dogs on their knees? There are only two active greyhound racetracks in the ...