- Racing to return from June 1
- All racing in Britain to go ahead without crowds
- Post-race debriefs to be via phone
- Jockey’s told to bring their own food and water
- Showers are not permitted on track
- All personnel must wear masks at all times
- Trainers advised to avoid entering “difficult or ‘fractious’” horses
The British Horse racing Authority has delivered a 33-page document outlining protocols for a return to racing on June 1.
Stated in the document are a number of measures that the BHA will mandate to ensure the safe return to racing.
While a return to racing is still conditional upon the government’s approval, the BHA has implemented a list of non-negotiable procedures that all participants must adhere to.
With strict social distancing rules in place, jockey’s and trainers must debrief on races via telephone or video conferencing.
While a usual shower after a race might be the norm for jockeys, under the new rules they will not be permitted to do so.
Instead, the BHA have advised hoops to bring their own wipes or liquid soap.
Participants will be required to wear face masks at all times. This includes jockeys, trainers, stable staff, handlers, and valets.
Each person permitted to enter the site can only do so once they’ve passed an online education model, which screens each participant prior to their arrival at the racecourse.
The series of questions is also followed up with a temperature test upon arrival.
The BHA is insistent on lowering the impact racing may have on the National Health System (NHS). It will therefore implement ongoing surveillance to monitor the coronavirus throughout racing communities.
In addition, the BHA will roll out social distancing officers who will police the rule and report any breach to race day stewards who will take regulatory action in line with the powers available to them ensuring safe return to racing.
Trainers have also been advised to avoid entering any “difficult or ‘fractious’” horses as only two stalls handlers will be allowed as “pushers” at the start.
The document adds that “any horse showing unhelpful behavior will not be allowed to enter again until further notice”.
A press release from the BHA states;
“guidelines have been developed in consultation with officials from Public Health England and a group of cross-sport Chief Medical Officers, and drawn up under the direction of the BHA’s Chief Medical Advisor, Dr Jerry Hill.”
“They are aligned with the government guidance for the return of elite sports published so far but can be adapted if required by subsequent guidance.”
The British Horseracing announced last week there will be a slash to initial prize money purses as the sport looks to revive from the coronavirus shutdown.
