Wimbledon Dogs in South London is the last remaining track in the capital to host weekly Greyhound races. Staving off closure by a hanging thread, the track has been saved for now, though visitor numbers have depreciated rapidly over the last few years. A stalwart of the track and chairman of the Wimbledon’s Owners’ Association is my subject, Bob Boswell. Having owned and raced Greyhounds for decades, Bob now works tirelessly with his wife to re-home retired race dogs and the evening I met him, he was accompanied by his own three (unfortunately whose names I have forgotten!)
As we traversed through the stadium, the dogs were incredibly popular, Bob told me that often when he brings them, children and adults of all ages, stop to stroke them and say hello, which he hopes will create more interest in the plight of ex-racers. I can vouch for how adorable and soft they are!
Being a regular at the track we got special treatment so I was allowed to go trackside for one of the races which was amazing to see from the other side of the pen. Regardless of the lagging footfall through the doors, the atmosphere was still incredible and I felt quite excited as I left. I shall definitely be heading back for a cheap, fun night out.