Greyhound Racing SA announced this week that it would increase participant starter fees at all GRSA TAB tracks from $20 a greyhound to $40. This would commence from September 1 and represent an additional GRSA yearly investment of $300,000.

“This seemingly small increase will make a significant difference to our participants in the face of rising costs,” said GRSA Chief Executive Officer Bodelle Francis. “The increase will allow them to continue to engage with the sport through the training and care of their greyhounds.”

GRSA has also expanded its Track Injury Rebate Scheme which absorbs 100 per cent of surgery costs up to the now-capped amount of $3500 as well as set amounts for triage and recovery.

Greyhounds that are supported through the scheme are prioritised through GRSA’s dedicated Greyhounds as Pets (GAP SA) program should they retire and need to be rehomed.

“GRSA is committed to setting and maintaining the highest standards of safety and welfare for our greyhounds throughout their racing careers and onto their life as pets through our dedicated rehoming program,” Ms Francis said.

Meanwhile, in a bid to ensure a more uniform and branded look on Sky Racing, as well as on-course, GRSA is to introduce new navy vests for handlers to wear when boxing and parading greyhounds.

The good quality vests, which will be made available next month, are one size fits all with elastic at the sides.

Each club will be allocated its own set of vests which will be kept on track and distributed in the kennel house prior to each race.

Vests will also be able to be purchased by participants. These will be distinguishable from club vests.