The current two-person per horse limit for owners attending racecourses to watch their horses will be eased from July 28, the British Horseracing Authority confirmed on Tuesday.
With badge allocation for owners increasing, the exact numbers available will be determined by each racecourse according to their capacity, taking into account government and local guidance on gatherings.
The restrictions around arrival and departure times on track will also be eased, allowing owners greater flexibility concerning the time they can spend on the racecourse. Owners are still being advised to arrive at least 45 minutes before their first declared runner to minimise delays and support the health screening process.
In a resumption update posted to its website, the BHA said: “The changes outlined above are only possible thanks to the continued support and cooperation of owners attending race meetings in adhering to British racing’s protocols for behind closed doors racing and, specifically, the guidance for owners.
“As ever, these protocols are subject to ongoing review and will be refined where possible to continually improve provision for owners. In the meantime, we ask that you continue to help us by following the current processes to ensure racing can continue in a safe and appropriate way.
“The easing of attendance and time restrictions on course will not apply to Welsh racecourses at this stage as Welsh government regulations allow for a maximum of 30 people in the ‘owners’ zone’ at any one time.”
Having had discussions with government, racecourses will also be able to offer hospitality for owners from the same date in line with guidance for restaurants, pubs and bars.
Essential food and drink have only been on offer in the new protocols, but the switch will improve the current ownership experiencing by allowing the provision of hot food and increased dining options where possible.
Racecourse hospitality will be subject to local conditions and risk assessments. Government guidance may differ between England, Wales and Scotland.
All other aspects of racedays will continue to comply with the guidance set out for the return of elite sporting competition taking place behind closed doors.
Goresbridge breeze to take place today
The breezes for the Tattersalls Ireland Goresbridge Breeze-Up Sale, being held in Newmarket this year due to travel restrictions in Ireland, will take place on the Rowley Mile today.
A total of 254 lots were catalogued for the auction but with 102 withdrawals, 152 juveniles will breeze ahead of the auction on Friday.
Today’s racing
Having failed to hit the frame in three starts this season, the Jessica Harrington-trained Millisle bids to regain the winning thread in the Group 3 Ballyogan Stakes (6f) at Naas today.
The three-year-old, who was last seen finished second to Tim Easterby’s exciting Art Power, will face nine rivals including Joseph O’Brien’s duo Lady Penelope and Unforgetable.
Completing the field are Forever In Dreams, Back To Brussels, Laurel Wreath, Lynn Britt Cabin, Precious Moments, Pronouncement and Sunday Sweet.
Bath, Catterick and Yarmouth also race on the Flat today while Ballinrobe hosts a jumps fixture.
