The decision to run only ten races on a Thursday and Saturday is baffling some trainers, who claim to have ten or more dogs sitting in their kennels.

Oxford Stadium management, however, point to the poor racing strength, which is at an all-time low, for the decision.

THERE will a feast of open racing at Oxford during August encompassing races over 250m, 450m and 595m.

Thursdays will be open race nights, with the action leading on to the Oxfordshire Gold Cup.

TONY Magnasco’s open race bitch, Ardmayle Hawk, has whelped a litter of five dogs and three bitches to another former open race winner, Droopys Willow.

If you wondered why Magnasco has not been at the track lately, there’s your answer – he’s been looking after his brood!