The British Equestrian Authority (BEA) has declared that all British horse racing events will necessitate face coverings beginning October 26th.
This measure is being implemented to safeguard race attendees as COVID-19 cases are on the rise in the UK.
Horse racing was suspended in March due to the UK government’s COVID-19 limitations. It was permitted to recommence in June, but solely behind closed doors. Only riders, BEA officials, and media personnel were allowed to participate.
Previously, only a select group of individuals were required to wear face coverings, but now all individuals attending a race meeting will be obligated to wear one.
Individuals are only required to wear non-medical face coverings. However, staff members such as medical personnel and cleaning staff will still be required to wear certified or higher-grade personal protective equipment, in accordance with existing regulations.
Face coverings must be worn in all indoor and outdoor areas within the green zone and owners’ area from the moment you enter the racetrack until you depart.
Certain exemptions will be in effect, including consuming food or beverages, solo driving, bathing or dressing, and scenarios where identification of attendees is necessary.
Dr. Jerry Hill, the Chief Medical Officer of the British Horseracing Authority, emphasized that the return of horse racing was feasible due to the closed-door format and the attentiveness of participants and officials, as there was no evidence of COVID-19 transmission at the racetrack.
“With cases increasing across the nation, and more regions being impacted by local lockdowns and limitations, we believe that making face masks obligatory for all attendees – except, of course, where exceptions apply – is a reasonable and essential precaution to bolster existing protocols and ensure everyone’s well-being.”
In the meantime, the British Horseracing Authority has unveiled its race schedule for the initial four months of 2021. The organization stated that the schedule is structured to maximize revenue to assist horse racing in navigating the COVID-19 crisis, while also protecting the well-being of participants.
The schedule encompasses a total of 448 races – 246 jumps and 202 flat – that will occur between January 1 and April 30. This represents only three fewer races compared to the same period last year.
Although the current state of affairs makes it difficult to plan for the future, the announcement of the racing schedule and minimum prize money amounts for the first four months of the following year gives the sport a clear path for upcoming events.
Richard Wayman, the Chief Operating Officer of the British Horseracing Authority, stated that the organization will continue to discuss with the government the possibility of spectators returning to the racetracks as the COVID-19 pandemic lessens.
“We are in talks with the government about a consistent approach to allow sporting events to occur in front of viewers as soon as possible, but in setting the early part of next year’s schedule, we have focused on creating a calendar that maximizes off-course betting revenue and, whenever possible, minimizes the cost of hosting events,” Wayman added.
Moreover, Wayman expressed gratitude for the Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) announcing this week their agreement to provide £31.9 million in funding for British racing in the first four months of 2021.
“We are particularly thankful for the continued funding support from the HBLB, which allows us to confirm that pre-pandemic minimum prize money levels will be kept at the lower and middle levels of racing, while also keeping the appearance money scheme that is popular with many owners,” he said.
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