Laurels (English greyhound race)

The Laurels is an original classic greyhound competition held at Perry Barr Stadium. It was run at Wimbledon Stadium from 1930 until 1997. It then moved to Belle Vue Stadium in 1998 and remained there until 2017 when it switched to Newcastle Stadium. After two years at Newcastle and a cancellation in 2020 due to COVID-19 it switched to Perry Barr in 2021.

competition lost its Category 1 status but was still regarded as one of the most valuable prizes during the racing year. The Arena Racing Company gained the prestigious competition in 2017 from the GRA and it returned to Category 1 status in 2022.

Venues and distances

 * 1930–1974 (Wimbledon Stadium, 500 y)
 * 1975–1997 (Wimbledon Stadium, 460 m)
 * 1998-1998 (Belle Vue Stadium, 460 m)
 * 1999–2002 (Belle Vue Stadium, 465 m)
 * 2003–2003 (Belle Vue Stadium, 480 m)
 * 2004–2004 (Belle Vue Stadium, 465 m)
 * 2005–2016 (Belle Vue Stadium, 470 m)
 * 2017–2019 (Newcastle Stadium, 480 m)
 * 2021–2024 (Perry Barr Stadium, 480 m)

Sponsors
• 1994–1998 (Ike Morris Bookmakers)

• 2003–2006 (William Hill)

• 2007–2009 & 2011 (Betfred)

• 2010–2010 (Stan James)

• 2012–2012 (Ladbrokes)

• 2013–2015 (ECC Timber)

• 2016–2016 (Racing Post GTV)

• 2017–2017 (O'Tooles Boxing Health & Fitness Byker)

• 2018–2018 (Conlon Family And Pinpoint Recruitment)

• 2019–2019 (O'Tooles Gym Byker)

• 2021–2024 (Arena Racing Company)