This Saturday evening’s race meeting will be a landmark in the track’s history as it will be the first to be transmitted live through the Sky television channel to millions of homes throughout the country.

The racing action can be viewed on Sky Channel 231 which has been established by the daily racing paper The Racing Post in conjunction with several bookmakers including Ladbrokes who own the greyhound tracks at Crayford and Monmore Green, Wolverhampton. The schedule will see the weekly Saturday evening fixture here at Crayford being transmitted on a regular basis.

Given the enhanced level of coverage, the track will be looking to secure sponsorships from local concerns as this is a golden opportunity for them to now advertise on a national basis. Should you be interested, contact Diana Illingworth or Ian Bland at the stadium.

The stadium has always been pleased to see visiting trainers and their dogs taking the chance to enter and compete here in our Open races on a Saturday night. Crayford trainers have always made the most of the home advantage on such occasions, as was the case here last Thursday afternoon during an Inter Track event across six races – half of which resulted in home wins. So it seems appropriate to give you some guidance as to which of our dogs are more than capable of competing well against the visitors.

Over the hurdles, Kauri Blue continues to forget that he is now five-years-old and always gives a good account of himself against his younger opponents. Having competed in 132 competitive races, he has all the track craft needed to see off the opposition and always receives due respect from local bookmakers as his starting prices reflect. His prices may be short but are a correct reflection of his ability.

Over the marathon distance of 714m, we may have found a new star in the Julie Luckhurst-trained Crossfield Mia. The dog registered her first victory over this trip last Saturday night in impressive fashion and I can see her becoming a force to be reckoned with.

You should also include U Make Me Smile over this distance who is a kennel-mate of Mia. He is overdue a win. Other selections for you to note in forthcoming Saturday night Open races are Aghadown Donna, Springwood Bob and Bringinhersunny.