Firstly, let me state that I believe the fact that the track—now estimated to be .20 fast for the 525 distance—is a tremendous tribute to Jimmy Quinn and Seamus Garvey.

For quite some time, Limerick has enjoyed the reputation, in Irish and world terms, as being the best racing circuit. A world record for 525 was created there in June by Catunda Harry.

Others will argue that a dog who records a time at Limerick may not be able to repeat the performance at other venues.

It is one thing for a track to be rated slow if conditions are bad. But to me it is daft that a greyhound that wins in 28.80 is officially rated as winning in 29.00.

Having the best racing surface in the country does not mean that the venue is perfect. In truth it must be one of the worst in the country, compared to stadia in Cork, Waterford, Tralee, and Galway, to name but a few.

In another era all stadia were much the same. But over the last decade Limerick has been left lagging behind.

Plans are to be lodged, very soon, maybe even this week, for the new stadium and new Irish Greyhound Board headquarters at the former Greenpark Racecourse. The Board has been headquartered at Henry Street since its inception in 1958.

The location was revealed some months ago after the site at Coonagh was deemed unsuitable.

Greenpark Racecourse had been chosen prior to that but the new plans, as unveiled, will allow for all that was envisaged when the distinguished attendance had a first glimpse at the unveiling in the Marriott Hotel.