Social distancing concerns lead to cancellation of Laytown meeting

Famous fixture on the beach will not be held this year.

Laytown’s unique beach meeting in September has been cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The action usually takes place on Laytown strand, with the racecourse set up on the beach once the tide recedes for what is a popular annual event.

However, organisers have been forced to call off this year’s fixture, scheduled for September 1, due to concerns about how social distancing measures could be enforced.

Joe Collins, Laytown Races chairman, said: “Laytown Races is in a unique position as we race under temporary facilities and our racetrack on the beach is a fantastic amenity, open to the public.

“As the health and safety of Laytown and Bettystown residents, sponsors, racegoers, jockeys, trainers, stable staff and racecourse staff is our number one priority, the committee had too many concerns about how we could implement social distancing during racing, especially on the beach and in the village.

“After consultation with all the key stakeholders including the Gardai, Horse Racing Ireland and the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Body, the committee reached the very difficult decision to cancel our 2020 race meeting, but we are already looking forward to welcoming everyone back to our 2021 race fixture.”

All customers who have already paid for admission tickets and corporate hospitality will receive a full refund in due course, the committee added.

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