Elisabeth investigates the world of Dog Racing, ahead of our forthcoming trip to Walthamstow Dogs:

Greyhound Racing is the second largest spectator sport in the country and there are tracks all over the UK. Basically, the dogs chase a mechanical lure, which is called a hare. Starting about half a circuit from the start, when it passes near the starting traps, it automatically triggers the gate and releases the greyhounds. If the dogs catch or overtake the lure, the race is declared void. The winner of the race is the dog whose nose first reaches the winning line and a photo finish maybe used to determine the winner.

Originated from Egypt where it was used to chase after rabbits, hares, leopard and gazelle, Greyhounds started racing in England by the beginning of the XIXth century.  This breed of dog is found more on the race track than at home as a family pet as it is the second fastest accelerating land mammal (after the cheetah) reaching speeds up to 39.15 mph in less than one and a half second!

What a buzz in the stadium and thrill with the bets you can place on the dogs! If you want to experience this great event coming soon, please contact James at james@answerenglish.com