A prominent greyhound racing family from Canterbury, New Zealand, faced a devastating blow when the government announced plans to ban the sport by July 2026. The Evans family, consisting of husband and wife Steve and Bonnie, along with their son Riley, who collectively have nearly 2000 greyhound race wins, decided to relocate to Australia to continue their passion for racing.
Steve Evans, a well-known greyhound racing trainer, swiftly took action upon hearing the news of the impending ban. The family orchestrated a covert operation to move 80 of their beloved greyhounds to Queensland. They secured a rural property near Ipswich and The Q racing track, investing significant resources in the relocation process to ensure the well-being of their dogs.
While critics of greyhound racing have raised concerns about animal welfare, Evans defended the industry, emphasizing the care and attention given to their dogs. The family’s decision to move to Queensland was not only driven by their love for the sport but also by the desire to provide a stable future for their greyhounds in a more welcoming regulatory environment.
Riley, the youngest member of the Evans family, emerged as a leading trainer in Queensland, achieving remarkable success at The Q track. With 46 wins under his belt since the move, Riley’s talent and dedication to greyhound racing have brought pride to his family and showcased their expertise in the sport.
Despite the emotional challenge of parting ways with some of their dogs that couldn’t be transported, the Evans family remains committed to ensuring the well-being of their animals. They have actively engaged in rehoming efforts, collaborating with Greyhound Racing NZ to facilitate the transition of their dogs into loving households.
The decision to relocate to Australia was not taken lightly, as it involved significant financial investment and logistical challenges. However, the Evans family remains optimistic about their future in Queensland, where they continue to uphold their legacy in greyhound racing and support Riley’s burgeoning career in the sport.
As they settle into their new racing environment, the Evans family stands as a testament to the resilience and passion of greyhound racing enthusiasts, demonstrating their unwavering dedication to the sport despite regulatory challenges and industry changes.
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