However, the local greyhound owners and breeders and enthusiasts were not going to accept this status quo, and a group got together, and decided that there must be a way back. Negotiations with the IGB on the financial side of things were good, Kilkenny had a viable and sustainable product, it made sense to back them.
The running surface needed drastic remedial work, so it was re-laid. New rails were installed along with a new hare and timing system.
The kennel area and wash down facilities were in poor order, and if Kilkenny wanted to attract the calibre of dogs it that the new running surface deserved, these also were in line for a facelift.
The Tea room wasn’t the most inviting, new carpets and a lick of paint were applied. The bar likewise.
In fact there wasn’t a door or wall that wasn't safe from the paintbrushes.
What is really amazing, is all of the this was achieved by a group of local volunteers, who put the shoulder to the wheel, and the result now, is one of the most vibrant provincial tracks in Ireland. A track that all patrons of Kilkenny can be very proud of.
All this cumulated in the track re-opening on the 17th of May 2009. Incidentally, Murty Leahy's Ballybough Lad took the A4 525, the first race back at the new Kilkenny. It has been onwards and upwards since.
However, the people of Kilkenny track were not going to rest on their laurels, and the hard work continues. Last year the track supporters club ran a monthly draw which was well supported from all over the country and a huge figure of €80,000 was raised. This money was used to ease some of the historical financial burdens that hung over the track, to sponsor stakes, and to continually maintain and develop Kilkenny track.
This year, there is no draw, but instead we are running a 'Summer Party Night' at the track on July 10th and all monies raised will go towards the continued development of Kilkenny track.
