Face Coverings Now Mandatory at British Horse Racing Events

The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has declared that face coverings are now obligatory at all British horse racing gatherings commencing on October 26th.

This choice is intended to safeguard racegoers as the quantity of COVID-19 instances is rising in the UK.

All racing events were terminated in March due to the UK government’s COVID-19 limitations, but were permitted to restart behind closed doors beginning on June 1st. Only jockeys, BHA officials, and media personnel were allowed to be present.

Previously, only specific attendees were required to wear face coverings, but this regulation will now apply to everyone participating in any race meeting. This new rule will remain in effect for the foreseeable future.

Attendees are only required to wear non-medical face coverings, but staff such as medical and cleaning personnel will still need to wear certified or higher-grade personal protective gear, as per existing rules.

Face coverings must be worn in all indoor and outdoor spaces in the green zone and owners’ area, from the time of arrival at the racetrack until departure.

Specific circumstances will be considered, including consuming food or beverages, operating a motor vehicle solo, bathing or changing attire, and instances where individuals must confirm their identity.

“Our closed-mode format and the attentiveness of participants and officials have enabled racing to resume securely, and there is no indication of Covid-19 transmission on the course,” stated Dr. Jerry Hill, the BHA’s Chief Medical Officer.

“With cases rising across the nation and more regions experiencing local closures and limitations, we believe that requiring face coverings for all participants (excluding, naturally, where exceptions apply) is a reasonable and essential measure to bolster our current procedures and help guarantee everyone’s well-being.”

In the meantime, the BHA has unveiled its racing calendar for the initial four months of 2021. The organization stated that the schedule was crafted to maximize income to support racing during the Covid-19 emergency, while protecting the well-being of participants.

The calendar encompasses January 1 to April 30 and features 448 races, comprising 246 hurdle races and 202 flat races. This represents a reduction of three races compared to the same period last year.

The current situation is marked by unprecedented uncertainty, making it difficult to plan for the future. However, the release of the racing calendar for the initial four months, along with the minimum prize money amounts, provides the sport with a well-defined roadmap for upcoming events.

Richard Wayman, the Chief Operating Officer of the British Horseracing Authority, stated that the BHA will continue to engage in discussions with the government regarding the potential return of spectators to races as the COVID-19 pandemic subsides.

“We are continuously communicating with the government to enable sporting events to occur with fans as soon as feasible. Nevertheless, when establishing the schedule for early next year, our primary focus is on developing a program that optimizes off-course betting revenue while minimizing event expenditures wherever possible.”

Wayman also conveyed his appreciation to the Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) for their recent announcement of £31.9 million in funding for British racing during the first four months of 2021.

“We are particularly thankful for the ongoing financial backing from the HBLB, which enables us to confirm that the minimum prize money levels established prior to the COVID-19 pandemic will remain in effect for mid-level and lower-level races. Additionally, we will maintain the appearance fee system, which is favored by numerous owners.”