Paws replaced boots at the Kassam Stadium on Saturday as Oxford delivered its second Gala Race Night of the year in partnership with League One side and neighbours Oxford United.
The Cowley venue – which reopened its doors in 2022 – introduced 10,000 supporters attending United’s derby fixture against Thames Valley rivals Reading to retired greyhound Bangerz, aka The Rockstar, ahead of kick-off.
Owned by Oxford’s retired greyhound ambassadors Wayne and Liz Mazey, Bangerz paraded in front of the main grandstand and was pitch side to watch both teams enter the field.
Supporters were able to meet Bangerz while matchday announcer Peter Rhoades-Brown spoke in detail about the Greyhound Board of Great Britain’s Greyhound Retirement Scheme and how retired racers make fantastic pets.
Even first-team manager Des Buckingham took time out of his pre-match preparations to give Bangerz some attention, and later attended his first night at Oxford Stadium since taking charge of United in November.
Kevin Boothby, Oxford Stadium Managing Director, hailed the stunt as a huge success.
“I don’t recall a greyhound ever being pitch side to welcome teams out of the tunnel before,” said Kevin. “It was great to see – and really helped us to spread our message about how greyhounds make great pets.
“So many people noted how calm Bangerz was in front of a near capacity crowd singing like the result depended on it. To me, that just proves how adaptable greyhounds are – they take everything in their stride, and we were pleased to showcase this.”
Following a 1-1 draw at the Kassam Stadium, supporters made the one-mile journey to Oxford Stadium for the first United Legends Race Night.
A host of former players attended, including the club’s second highest goal scorer James Constable, Pete Foley and Peter Rhoades-Brown. Supporters took advantage of a special admission offer too, with anyone wearing a United shirt eligible for free admission.
There was even better news when the stadium’s retired greyhound for the week, Fern, was reserved by a visiting family. Pending a clear home inspection, the four-year-old ex-racer – aka Footfield Fern – will move into her new home shortly.
Shaun Reynolds of Fortitude Communications – whose team organised the day – added: “Having the opportunity to showcase greyhound racing to so many people was a real highlight in Oxford’s regeneration story to date.
“The buy-in we get from the team on the ground has gone a long way in making our Gala Race Nights a huge success. Coupled with our existing relationship with the football club and its staff, Saturday marked a positive day for greyhound racing locally.
“A special mention must go to Wayne and Liz Mazey and their three retired greyhounds Bangerz, Dash and Luna. They are all so generous with their time and are a real asset to the stadium.”
Oxford Stadium’s next Gala Race Night is scheduled for Saturday, March 16, when the toe-tapping jigs and reels from Ireland will provide the soundtrack to 10 live races, including the heats of the TV Trophy.
Tickets are on sale via the stadium website with the first 150 buyers entitled to a free pint of Guinness on arrival.
