News
New Start for New Boss in the New Year at Wimbledon Stadium
03/01/08
The New Year has brought a new boss to Wimbledon Greyhound Stadium.
Darren Kennedy has taken up the post of General Manager at the famous track, and took the opportunity to meet his first greyhound by the winning line.
Darren is aged 36 and was born in New Zealand. He moved to the UK 12 years ago when he met his now wife Cathy.
He joins GRA Limited, which runs Wimbledon and five other greyhound stadiums across the UK, from Massive Limited where he was Operations Manager controlling ten pub/restaurants in South West London.
Other new arrivals to Wimbledon Greyhound Stadium include a £100,000 Tote betting system, a recently appointed Racing Manager and new race sponsors.
Darren, who will be responsible for a multi-million pound turnover and 250 employees, said all the new ventures would make 2008 a great year for race-goers at Wimbledon Greyhound Stadium.
“I had never been to a greyhound track before I got the job but I saw a lot of potential in the business and it is time to take it a step forward,” he said.
“The first night I came here with my wife we had a ball, it was a great night and I experienced the public turnstiles firsthand, which gave me some good ideas as well as a fun-filled night at not a great expense.”
Darren plays rugby, is a seasoned snowboarder and loves motorsports, including the stock car racing that takes place at the track.
He said it was a fantastic opportunity for him.
“A stadium business like this is not like pubs to a large degree, but the people here love the business and want it to keep doing well.
“We used to make our pubs the ‘hub’ of the community and I think there is an aspect of that we can do with Wimbledon Greyhound Stadium, with us being a big part of Wimbledon.
“It is a fantastic opportunity for me and I am very proud to be here.”
Clive Feltham, Managing Director of GRA Limited, said: “I am delighted to welcome Darren Kennedy as General Manager of our Wimbledon track.
“Everyone at GRA would like to wish him every success in his new role.”
ENDS
For more information please contact Clive Reeves on 01543 501111 or email clive@wardlovett.com