![gold grotto 27 (2)](https://cdn.historyofgreyhoundracing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/07160757/gold-grotto-27-2-635x381.jpg)
Here are some wonderful photos from Napier Park. I think that’s what you call a packed Betting ring. Napier Park was the first home of the Melbourne Cup here is a pic of the 1952 winner Solo Chief with trainer W.N.Riley. The race was first run in 1933 and mainly conducted up the straight over the 400 yards. Apart from 1942, 43,44 and 46 it was run over the 340 yard Circle. Once in 1945 it was run up the 300 yard straight distance when won by Yarloop trained by Hall of Famer Ray Herbert. Legendary trainer Ed Tucker won the last Melbourne Cup at Napier in 1954 with Wanalta Chief he also won the race at Sandown in 1972 with one of my favourite chasers Gold Grotto.
Pop Scott -Tom Bleazbys sister Nel was a great trainer at Napier park saw her win lots of races there….pop
John Reid– On a cold night,the best way to get warm,was not to stand near the fires,but go to the crowded betting ring,as a boy that’s were I went between races.
Kerry Chalker- The BEST days of greyhound racing when people actually went to witness the racing
Chris McKay – Massive crowds
Frank Harney – Brings back wonderful memories from the golden years of Greyhound racing.
Adrian Scott – Great photo. Times have certainly changed NJB. 😢
Mick Fearnley – Great photos.