Suffolk Downs Fire: Hopes for a Quick Return to Racing

Suffolk Downs Racing Manager, Robbie Steward, is optimistic about the possibility of resuming races soon after a fire broke out at the stadium on Tuesday.

Steward mentioned that he had not yet assessed the damage, as the fire brigade had restricted access to the site. The fire was first noticed by Dave Coventry, who resides on the premises, and the fire brigade was alerted at 5:30. The blaze destroyed the main barn and sheds, which housed crucial racing and stock car equipment.

However, the judge’s box and vet’s room seemed to have been spared, owing to their location. The extent of the damage to the kennels, whether from fire, smoke, or water, remained uncertain. There was no electricity on site, but promoter Kevin Boothby was considering bringing in generators if needed. Fortunately, there were no anticipated issues with the water supply.

The team was in discussions with the Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB) to possibly hold races at alternative venues, although this posed challenges as the local dogs were unfamiliar with other tracks. Steward emphasised that they would have a clearer picture after Boothby assessed the damage, expressing hope that racing could resume within weeks rather than months.

Updates will be shared as soon as more information becomes available. It has since been announced that Suffolk Downs will not host races in August.