Wentworth Park farewell generates over US$6m in wagering

More than 6,000 spectators attended the final meeting as Greyhound Racing NSW prepares for a new racing precinct in Richmond.

Key takeaways:

• Wentworth Park’s final greyhound meeting generated AU$9.37m (US$6.1m) in wagering turnover across 10 races.
• More than 6,000 spectators attended the farewell meeting on October 16.
• Greyhound Racing NSW has selected the Richmond Club site in Western Sydney as the preferred location for its new Sydney Metropolitan Racing Precinct.

Australia.- The final night of greyhound racing at Sydney’s Wentworth Park generated AU$9.37m (US$6.1m) in wagering turnover across 10 races, according to Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW). The result was the second-highest in the state’s greyhound racing history.

More than 6,000 spectators attended the farewell meeting October 16. The AU$1m (US$650,000) Ladbrokes Million Dollar Chase final accounted for AU$2.42m (US$1.57m) in turnover. Magical Ang, trained by Peter Lagogiane, won the last race at the venue.

The meeting was broadcast live on free-to-air television through 7Plus, with selected events also shown on Racing.com and coverage provided by Sky Racing. GRNSW said early indications suggested viewing figures had also exceeded expectations.

GRNSW chief executive Steve Griffin said: “To not only have so many at the venue, but to see the results away from it, exudes confidence and support for our sport.”

The event marked the end of 94 years of greyhound racing at Wentworth Park. GRNSW has selected the existing Richmond Club site in Western Sydney as the preferred location for its new Sydney Metropolitan Racing Precinct, following an assessment of 12 potential sites with Deloitte Australia.

The proposed multi-purpose development includes three racing tracks, club facilities, training facilities, a veterinary practice and a 24-hour attended boarding kennel. The plans also include potential motel accommodation and are intended to generate revenue beyond racing through wider community use.

GRNSW expects to confirm its preferred development option in early 2027, with construction scheduled to begin in late 2027. Griffin said the sport was moving into a new chapter, adding: “We’re sad, of course, but everyone in our sport is excited for the future and what comes next at Richmond.”