Newcastle Greyhound Stadium

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Newcastle Greyhound Stadium, formerly known as Brough Park, stands as a historic landmark in the world of greyhound racing. Located on the Fossway in Byker, Newcastle upon Tyne, this iconic venue has been a cornerstone of local sporting culture since its inception in 1928. The stadium emerged as the second greyhound racing track in Newcastle, just 28 days after the White City Stadium opened, quickly establishing itself as the premier racing destination in the region.

A Rich Racing Heritage

The stadium’s journey began on a site previously used for allotments and football grounds, strategically positioned near Walker. Interestingly, the resident kennels were constructed directly on the route of Hadrian’s Wall, adding a unique historical dimension to the venue. From its earliest days, Brough Park attracted top-tier greyhounds and talented trainers who would go on to make significant marks in the racing world.

Notable Moments in Racing History

Throughout its history, Newcastle Greyhound Stadium has witnessed numerous memorable achievements:

• In 1938, the track hosted its first All England Cup, drawing top-tier greyhounds from across the country
• Trainer Norman Oliver won the Scottish Greyhound Derby in 1967 with Hi Ho Silver
• Shady Begonia reached the English Greyhound Derby final in 1968
• In 1973, Norman Oliver was voted Greyhound Trainer of the Year

Track Specifications and Facilities

The Newcastle Greyhound Stadium boasts a track with a 415-metre circumference, offering a variety of race distances to challenge and showcase the incredible athletes. Race lengths include:

• 290 Metres
• 480 Metres
• 500 Metres
• 640 Metres
• 670 Metres
• 706 Metres
• 825 Metres
• 895 Metres

Modern Era and Ownership

A significant turning point came in 2003 when William Hill bookmakers purchased the track, investing heavily in its facilities and reputation. In 2007, the stadium was rebranded from Brough Park to Newcastle Stadium, reflecting its status as the city’s sole greyhound racing venue. By May 2017, the Arena Racing Company (ARC) acquired the stadium, continuing its legacy of competitive racing.

Racing Schedule and Community Impact

Currently, racing takes place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, maintaining the stadium’s vibrant racing culture. The venue has a capacity of 1,000 spectators and continues to attract racing enthusiasts despite the general decline of greyhound racing across the United Kingdom.

The stadium's resilience is a testament to its deep-rooted connection with the local community and its ability to adapt to changing sporting landscapes. From its early days hosting legendary races to its current status as a beloved local institution, Newcastle Greyhound Stadium remains a significant part of Newcastle's sporting heritage.