May 1 return pencilled in
The British Horseracing Authority has confirmed they hope to return to action on May 1 after putting together a plan of action.
Last week, all racing in the United Kingdom was suspended until the end of April due to the coronavirus pandemic. In the few days leading up to the suspension, several meetings took place behind closed doors. Earlier this month, the horse racing community came under widespread criticism after continuing to allow large crowds into the Cheltenham Festival despite other sporting events falling by the wayside. Now, after talks between the relevant authorities, the plan is for racing to return on May 1, initially behind closed doors. The BHA have also slashed their monthly £3million budget to £2million. BHA’s chief regulatory officer Brant Dunshea says only flat racing will commence on that date to ease the strain on emergency services. ‘We are already anticipating that the initial return to racing is likely to be phased and almost certainly behind closed doors,’ Dunshea says. ‘This reflects the likelihood that any easing of the Covid-19 situation, and any associated restrictions and pressures on medical services, will also happen progressively. ‘With that in mind, we also expect any return to racing to begin, at least initially, with Flat racing, principally for reasons of safety and to minimise demands on emergency services.’Follow us on Twitter racing365dotcom and like our Facebook page.
Latest
-
Josh Moore joining father Gary on training licence
Business as usual, but Lower Beeding yard very much planning for the future.
-
Fastorslow too strong for Galopin Des Champs in Punchestown repeat
Martin Brassil’s stable star conquers dual Cheltenham Gold Cup king once more.
-
Redemption Day at Punchestown for Jody Townend
Grade One victory is a first for leading amateur rider.
-
Dancing City backs up Aintree win with gritty Punchestown success
He was made to battle all the way by a stablemate.
-
Jasour stakes Commonwealth claim with smooth success
Impressive Ascot victor cut to 12-1 for Royal meeting.
-
Coltrane collects Sagaro top honours once again
Classy Balding stayer sees off gallant challenge of Cauis Chorister.
-
Quddwah puts down Queen Anne marker in maintaining unbeaten record
Lots to like about Simon and Ed Crisford’s colt.
-
Teahupoo out for Cheltenham-Punchestown Festival double
No horse has completed the feat this century.
-
‘Solid chance’ for Marquand to make Guineas impact this weekend
Rider is looking to Iberian and Porta Fortuna to sparkle in Newmarket Classics.