New owners for Pelaw Grange dog track in Chester-le-Street

Pelaw Grange Greyhound Stadium in Chester-le-Street is being taken over by Star Sports following the retirement of current managing director Jeff McKenna.

The stadium – to be renamed Star Pelaw - has been in the ownership of the McKenna family since 1965 and becomes Star’s first acquisition of a greyhound stadium.

Star Sports' Kim Sanzone will head up the new venture, assisted by the Racing Manager at Pelaw Grange, David Gray, who will continue in his current role.

Ben Keith, owner of Star Sports, said: “A life's dream has been realised for me in purchasing Pelaw Grange.

“From the first moment I set eyes on Hove, greyhound racing became a passion, and it brings me immense excitement to be taking this next step.

“I love to watch a greyhound run, whether it be a handslip or the final of the Greyhound Derby.

“Star hope to earn our stripes and learn our way at Pelaw and then look towards other projects.

“I must thank the McKenna family at Pelaw Grange and we look forward to giving as many people as possible a warm welcome to Star Pelaw.”

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Kim Sanzone, executive assistant at Star Sports, said: “This is a very exciting new opportunity for both Star and myself.

“I’m hoping it will be the first of many tracks in our portfolio and it clearly demonstrates Ben’s commitment and passion to the greyhound industry. 

"We hope to continue to uphold the amazing community spirit at the track that the McKenna family have spent decades building and want to reassure all staff, trainers and owners that it will be business as usual.”

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Jeff McKenna (Image: Contributor) Jeff McKenna, managing director at Pelaw Grange, said: “We are delighted to be handing over the reins to Star Sports who are an innovative company, committed to investing in greyhound racing.

“An exciting opportunity lies ahead for staff, trainers, owners and punters alike.

“Pelaw Grange Stadium has been in our family for just short of 60 years and I would like to give a massive thank you to all involved – staff, trainers, owners, punters, bookmakers, sponsors and ARC who have supported us along the way.

“It is now time for myself and Theresa to retire, step down, focus on being with family and friends and enjoy our life and hobbies outside of greyhound racing.”