Races

Throughout the Netherlands there are more than ten racing clubs active for sighthounds. Every weekend races are organized by two of these clubs.
The competition includes international representation from other countries.

One heat consists of a number of series. Every series allows six dogs to participate. The first two dogs to cross the finish line qualify for the semi-finals, the other dogs with get a second chance to run. The winners in the semi-finals will then advance to the finals, so that ultimately the fastest dog wins.

The dogs run on an oval track with a running distance of 350 or 475 meters.
The heats are divided into three classes: A, B and C class. When a dog begins racing, it starts in the B class. Depending on racing results, his class can be lowered to a  C-class or promoted to the A-class. The dogs compete in a race separated by breed and gender. A Greyhound has different toning than a Whippet. A Greyhound is bigger, will run faster and also requires more space in the corners. Racing a whippet and a greyhound would not be equal. This also applies to the difference of gender, a male is generally faster than a bitch.

Before a dog is permitted in the races, racing-certification is compulsory. The dog must get permission from the Commission for the Greyhounds to see whether the dog is clean and 'hare down'. This means that the dog will focus on the fake hare, once the kennel opens, instead of running around looking dazed.

Finally, a whippetbitch should not be exceed 18.9 inches in height and a whippetdog may not be more than 20.1 inches in height. Once all of these requirements have been met, the dog is ready to race.