This summer marks a landmark moment for greyhound racing as the sport celebrates its centenary year.
Since 1926, greyhound racing has provided generations of fans with excitement, competition and memorable nights out, becoming a cherished part of Britain's sporting and social landscape.
At Sunderland Greyhounds, we're proud to continue that legacy, providing live sporting action, great-value entertainment and a welcoming atmosphere for racegoers old and new.
To commemorate this special anniversary, we're inviting guests to join us throughout July for a series of exclusive offers, competitions and celebrations inspired by 100 years of racing history.
Whether you're discovering greyhound racing for the first time or have been visiting for years, we invite you to be part of this historic occasion and help us celebrate a century of the sport.
Read on to discover how you can get involved in our Centenary celebrations this July.
Sunderland Greyhound Stadium has been at the heart of greyhound racing in the North East for more than 85 years. The first race meeting took place on 23rd March 1940, with Percheron making history as the first greyhound to cross the winning line at the stadium.
Originally operating as a grass track, Sunderland evolved with the sport and converted to a sand racing surface during the 1970s, helping to establish its reputation as one of the region's leading racing venues.
A major transformation followed in the early 1990s when the stadium underwent significant redevelopment. The project introduced many of the facilities racegoers enjoy today, including a 160-seat restaurant, private hospitality boxes and a nightclub. One of the key figures behind this modernisation was the late Harry Williams, a true Sunderland and greyhound racing legend.
Harry's connection with the stadium extended beyond its redevelopment. He also enjoyed success on the track, winning one of Sunderland's most prestigious competitions, The Classic, with the outstanding greyhound Allowdale Bruno.
Today, Sunderland Greyhound Stadium continues to build on that proud heritage, welcoming new generations of racegoers while celebrating the people, greyhounds and memorable moments that have shaped its history.
This July, Sunderland Greyhounds will be joining tracks across the country in celebrating a century of greyhound racing in Britain.
To mark this historic milestone, we've put together a month of special offers, competitions and opportunities to look back on the rich history of both the sport and Sunderland Greyhound Stadium, which has been entertaining racegoers since 1940.
As part of the celebrations, guests can enjoy our exclusive 1926 Restaurant Offer, inspired by the year greyhound racing first arrived in Britain. Throughout July, a three-course dining package will be available for just £19.26 per person, including admission, a racecard, reserved restaurant seating and a complimentary commemorative gift.
Whether you're a lifelong supporter of the sport or planning your first visit, join us this summer as we celebrate the people, greyhounds and unforgettable moments that have shaped 100 years of racing history.
Raise a glass with us and be part of a landmark year at Sunderland Greyhounds.
As part of our 100 Years of Greyhound Racing celebrations, we're giving away 100 raceday passes throughout our centenary campaign.
This special competition gives 100 lucky winners the opportunity to enjoy a night at Sunderland Greyhounds completely free of charge, experiencing the excitement of live racing, great atmosphere and unforgettable entertainment.
Whether you're a regular visitor or have never been to the dogs before, this is your chance to be part of a landmark year for the sport.
Keep an eye on our website, social media channels and email updates for details on how to enter and join us in celebrating 100 years of greyhound racing.
