In a bid to increase the number of syndicates and new owners in the sport, Greyhound Racing SA is looking to partner new syndicates with trainers across the state.
In fact, such is the controlling body’s commitmentof making syndication a success for the future of the code in SA, that it recently appointed Sean Donnelly to the newly-created role of Syndicate Coordinator.
Donnelly will liaise between the public and participants to help facilitate new and successful syndicates in Adelaide and Mount Gambier.
“Putting things in some sort of context, shares in an Adelaide Greyhound Racing Club syndicate are $1500 which gives a 5% share in two ready-to-race greyhounds,” he said.
“Therefore, we are looking at around $10,000 to $15,000 for each greyhound that we want to be winning races at Angle Park on a Thursday night. “From a Mount Gambier point of view I’d be interested in hearing local participants’ thoughts on what the share price for a syndicate greyhound should be and also the price point for one that could win open class races at Tara Raceway Sunday meetings.
“Already, I have had positive feedback from some local trainers but I’m still keen to communicate with more regional participants who are looking to become involved in syndication.”
Donnelly, who would assist in the setting up and managing of syndicates, said the process was designed to be as easy as possible for all parties. “We will provide templates and contracts for the syndicate and trainers and ensure that syndicates are aware of the syndicate manager being the only point of contact with the trainer.
“Syndicates will also be fully aware of their obligations to greyhounds in regard to their post-racing lives and entry into GAP SA or the home of a syndicate member.”
Recently, Donnelly outlined his thoughts on greyhound syndication when speaking via phone hook-up with the Mount Gambier Greyhound Racing Club committee. He said he was
hopeful GRSA syndicate greyhounds could be racing at Tara Raceway “early next year”.
“We’re looking to make greyhound syndication a success by accessing good quality dogs and then selling the experience,” he said.
“In early 2021 we will have a syndication page set up on the GRSA website.
Then we can undertake some targeted Facebook advertising to ascertain some idea on the potential interest from the south-east.
“Interested parties could then be directed to the GRSA website in order to register their intent. Realistically, we really do want to get these people to the Mount Gambier track and supporting the club.”
Donnelly said that after the first round of club syndicates he would be targeting sporting clubs to gauge their interest in greyhound syndication.
Meanwhile, GRSA has already contacted participants seeking expressions of interest from public trainers regarding syndication.
Quick to respond with his thoughts was leading Mount Gambier trainer David Peckham who said he looked forward to meeting with Donnelly and further discussing the opportunity of becoming involved in the syndication promotion.
