PM Boris Johnson was back at the helm today and issued a firm reminder to the British public that the country still needs to be patient at a time of “maximum risk.” Meanwhile British racing is still pressing ahead behind the scenes with plans for a resumption of racing behind closed doors.
Back at No.10 and speaking for the first time since recovering from the virus, the PM said “we are now beginning to turn the tide” on the disease. He said lockdown would not be relaxed too soon and details on any changes will be set out over the “coming days”.
The Government legally has to review the current “lockdown” on Thursday 7 May when we will all know a little bit more about any potential relaxation of current restrictions. It will be interesting to know where British racing stands on Friday 8th!
There has been a handbags at dawn spat within racing during the last two days between some trainers and the role of the Chairman of the BHA, Nick Rust. Washing one’s laundry in public is never very savoury or productive, so let’s move on to a more positive plane.
The BHA continues to plan for a resumption of racing behind closed doors as soon as possible. Race fields are likely to be limited to 12 runners and only senior jockeys will be allowed. Some may have wondered what “senior” means. It will include all fully-fledged professional jockeys, ie not apprentices who are claiming.
European racing is due to start behind closed doors next month with Germany on May 4th and France on May 11th. South African racing is hoping to resume on Friday 1 May with the National Horseracing Authority (NHA) having put forward a plan to Government officials.
As we know bookmakers are often right and early this morning it was 1/3 that racing would resume in Britain before 1 June.
Does money talk?
Stay safe!
