The hot weather is taking its toll on Kilkenny greyhound racing.
Following the ‘High-Temperature’ five-day warning issued by Met Éireann, the Irish Greyhound Board (IGB) has suspended all trials and racing between 10AM and 7.30PM with immediate effect and is monitoring all race meetings subject to changing weather patterns and local conditions. The measures follow best welfare practices that are routinely followed during sharp temperature changes.
Temperatures in Kilkenny reached 28.6 degrees Celsius on Tuesday afternoon and were already over the 27 degree mark at midday today.
As a result, Racing at Kilkenny this evening (Wednesday 27 June) is delayed. The first of eight races will start at 9PM to allow for lower temperatures.
“We are pleased that racing can proceed this evening at 9PM”, says Kilkenny Racing Manager Tom Kinane.
“I understand the delay can be a inconvenience to customers and owners however the welfare of our greyhounds comes first in all operational decisions. We will continue to monitor weather patterns and local conditions to ensure welfare considerations are fully taken into account.”