Interview with Malcolm Tams, Manager at Valley Greyhound Racetrack

_{Malcolm Tams, manager of Valley Greyhound Racetrack, discusses the proposed ban on greyhound racing in Wales and the political controversies surrounding the decision. (Image: Richard Swingler)}

Controversy has erupted in politics and the greyhound racing fraternity in Wales as the Senedd Welsh Government considers banning the sport. 

The push to ban greyhound racing follows a wider trend of increased regulation in industries tied to public welfare concerns, including online casinos.

The debate over Wales' potential greyhound racing ban has sparked discussions on whether this is a political maneuver or a genuine push for animal welfare.

It has also been reported that the leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats, Jane Dodds, included the call for banning the sport as part of a deal to get the £29bn Welsh government budget through. Some have called it a ‘dirty backroom deal.’

Welsh Labour holds half the seats in the Senedd and needed a casting vote to get the budget through. A deal, the greyhound fraternity says, is holding a gun to their heads. 

We reported recently on the alleged conflict of interest for the Welsh Lib Dem and the question over whether she should have been able to use leverage to call for the ban. 

The horse racing community have also joined the furore, asking if they are going to be next.  

Manager of Valley Track Gives his Side of the Story 

Casinos.com wanted to get both sides of this incredible story playing out in Wales, UK, so we contacted the Valley Racetrack Manager, Malcolm Tams.

Malcolm has been involved with greyhound racing for decades, investing heavily in the sport and creating a fantastic community facility in Ystrad Mynach. Now 70, Malcolm believes he will see the end of his beloved sport in Wales and issued a warning to horse racing fans. ‘Your sport could be next." 

We began by asking Malcolm, given the recent developments with the Welsh Government and the proposed budget implications surrounding greyhound racing, what his thoughts were on Jane Dodds’ stance and her call for a ban on greyhound racing in Wales. 

Malcolm said, “Well, it’s concerning to me. Jane Dodds supports banning greyhound racing, which is a significant point of contention. I believe she should have been transparent about her conflict of interest, considering her personal agenda. 

"It feels like she may be using her position to push her own views, which doesn't align with the needs of the racing community in Wales.”

Has the Fate of Greyhound Racing in Wales Been Decided With Open Minds?

Malcolm mentioned that all members of the Senedd should approach such matters with an open mind. We asked him if he believed that this had been the case here. 

He replied categorically, “No, not at all. I think certain members had preconceived notions about greyhound racing, which led to a biased evaluation of the situation. Throughout the process, the racing fraternity was left out of the discussions. 

"We gathered over 10,000 signatures in support of greyhound racing, which was overshadowed by the 35,000 signatures against it. The figures aren't adequately reflected in the discussions.” 

What Impact Will the Ban Have On the Local Community?

The proposed deal with the Welsh Government reportedly hinged on support from various factions, including what could be considered a personal agenda against the sport. We asked Malcolm how he thought this had impacted the decision-making process and how it would impact the community. 

Referring to the recent approval for the Senedd budget, Malcolm said, “This deal of nearly £29 billion came through because of political manoeuvring, and we are left holding the bag. The concerns raised about greyhound racing do not account for the livelihoods connected to the sport. 

"If they ban the track, it could be devastating for the dogs and many community members who use it. We spend £54.00 a year on bills alone. There are vets and suppliers; around 100 jobs will go.” 

Malcolm referenced a planning program that was set up years ago for the track. We asked if there had been an evolution in how the track operates since then. 

Malcolm clarified what the plans entailed by saying, “Absolutely. We've made extensive modifications and improvements [on ethical racing] over the years since I bought the track in 2010. 

"Our focus has always been on the welfare of the dogs, providing a safe and regulated environment. The track undergoes regular inspections, and we have protocols to ensure all racing is conducted ethically.” 

Are Greyhounds Mistreated at Tracks? 

We asked Malcolm about the claims about welfare standards in greyhound racing. We asked him to respond to the allegations regarding the treatment of the dogs. 

It is easy to see that he is passionate about the sport and cares for the animals’ welfare. He said, “There seems to be a misconception about how we treat greyhounds. Our dogs are well-cared for, and any animal that shows signs of distress or health issues is immediately addressed by our veterinary team. We prioritise their well-being and have established checks in place to account for their health throughout their time with us.” 

Will the Future Existence of Greyhounds Be at Stake?

Some critics suggest that once racing is banned, the future of the greyhound breed itself could be at risk. We asked for his thoughts on these claims.

He replied, “That’s an alarming prospect. Without racing, many greyhounds could be left without homes. The sport provides not only income for many, but it also creates a community dedicated to the welfare of these animals. Banning racing could lead to a significant decline in the breed's numbers and even in the positive care they receive.” 

Transparency in Discussions is Critical 

We asked Malcolm if he could bring any changes to the current legislative discussions; what would he want to see? 

Mr. Tams was clear in his response, “I think we need a greater emphasis on transparency and more inclusive dialogues that engage with all stakeholders—not just those who are against racing. 

"It's crucial to evaluate the facts, listen to both sides, and ensure that the voices of the racing community are heard in these deliberations.” 

A Message to Those Who Oppose the Sport

Finally, we asked him what he would say to those who oppose greyhound racing. The plea was simply, “I would urge them to visit the tracks and see for themselves the environment in which we operate. It's easy to judge from afar but understanding the realities of how we care for our dogs, our community's involvement, and the economic aspects involved might change their perspectives. Everyone's entitled to their views, but I believe they should be informed by the facts.” 

It's clear that the future of greyhound racing in Wales is a complex issue with many facets. It's an important discussion, and one we decided to give the sport an opportunity to provide their side of the story.

Senedd Lib Dem Politician Appealed for Ban

Mark Bird, CEO of the Greyhound Board of Great Britain, said, “The Welsh Administration has today admitted that this has nothing to do with greyhound racing but is a dirty, dodgy, backroom deal to get their through. 

"This is not how any piece of legislation should be decided upon and is the kind of cynical behaviour that destroys people’s trust in government, leaving them totally disillusioned about how politicians behave. Sadly, an act is for life, not just for the budget.” 

Valley Greyhounds has released an official statement, "All at Valley Greyhounds were shocked and saddened by the sudden announcement from the Deputy First Minister on Tuesday.  

"Our sport is a community and way of life, not a political football. To see the Welsh Government today confirming their decision was about political strategy, over care for local people, only adds to our intense disappointment in the process so far.  

"We have invested millions of pounds purchasing and investing in improvements at the stadium. The welfare standards at the stadium have never been higher and continue to be our primary concern above all else. Operating as a regulated GBGB-licensed track also ensures and demands the highest standard of welfare for our greyhounds. 

"Despite regular invitations, the Deputy First Minister has failed to engage with the regulator or visit the track. We feel the statement regarding banning greyhound racing has been an emotive response, not one based on the evidence produced as part of the Welsh Government’s own consultation process. Our staff, trainers, owners and local community have not been taken into consideration.  

"We hope the industry and all its key stakeholders will all come together to explore every avenue possible to prevent a ban."