Fast-paced greyhounds in training: HWRC celebrates 65 years of racing in Hoisdorf!

Fast-paced greyhounds in training: HWRC celebrates 65 years of racing in Hoisdorf!

In Hoisdorf everything revolves around fast running and a lot of passion - we're talking about the Hoisdorfer Greyhound Racing Club (HWRC). Dog lovers meet here to organize exciting races with their four-legged friends. Nicole Behr, the club's first chairwoman, and her greyhounds reach incredible speeds of between 50 and 80 km/h. Behr, who originally wanted to adopt a Jack Russell Terrier, has now taken a completely different path: “I can no longer imagine life without a greyhound,” she says. The greyhounds she received from a friend took her heart by storm.

The HWRC was co-founded in 1958 by Winfried Motzkus, now 85 years old. In his 50 years as a breeder and owner of greyhounds, he has kept a total of ten animals. His decision to choose greyhounds came from a book that described the breed as being fond of children. The club attaches great importance to the well-being of the animals; The races, which take place on a 400 meter long track, are primarily intended for trophies. However, before racing, each dog is examined by a vet and must meet numerous conditions - including being at least 18 months old and having a valid vaccination.

Greyhound racing and coursing

Greyhound racing is more than just a race. They offer dogs the opportunity to express their natural instincts. When coursing, the dogs follow a zigzag course behind a fake hare and rely on their keen sense of vision. Participation in the race requires strict regulations: every dog ​​must be licensed and healthy. “The excitement and concentration of the dogs during coursing is impressive,” describes Behr. Today, a total of 13 different sighthound breeds are represented in the sport, including greyhounds, which are considered the fastest among them.

Other breeds also have a special place in the club. In addition to greyhounds, Saint Bernards and Chihuahuas are also welcome at the racecourse. This makes the place a place where dogs and their owners can meet and share their passion for dog sports.

A place for community

The race track is not only a workplace for the dogs, but also a meeting place for dog lovers from the area. The HWRC gives them the opportunity to network and exchange experiences. In addition, the encounter between humans and animals is encouraged, because greyhounds are sociable animals that seek closeness and often like to sleep in bed. “It’s not just our competition and our passion, it’s also our life,” emphasizes Motzkus.

The fascination with greyhounds has its roots in the long history of hunting dogs, which were originally bred to hunt everything from rabbits to wolves. Today, hunting live game is prohibited by law, and greyhounds live out their athletic skills in the ancient greyhound sport, which has its roots in England and has spread across Central Europe. For Nicole Behr and the members of the HWRC, the fun and well-being of the dogs always come first.

The regular training and races impressively show how much energy and enthusiasm there is in this sport. And even when it comes to trophies, the main focus always remains on the well-being of the dogs: “Our dogs are only satisfied when they can pursue their passion,” concludes Behr.

Those interested can find out more about greyhound racing and the sport in general on the website VDH find out more or contact them directly Hoisdorf greyhound racing club turn around. Here greyhound sport is lived and promoted with a lot of dedication!