Face covering regulations for jockeys have been revised, the British Horseracing Authority announced on Saturday. There has been a hot spell in the UK as summer begins. The new protocols are as follows:
- Prior to a race, jockeys are required to wear a face covering (which covers nose and mouth) from the time they depart the changing area in the weighing room.
- The wearing of face coverings during the race is recommended. However, jockeys are permitted to pull down the face covering in the moments immediately prior to the start and for the duration of the race. For Flat races, jockeys in the starting stalls should not turn to face any neighbouring loaded jockey.
- On completion of the race, the face covering, if lowered for the race, should be raised before entering the horse walk, whether mounted or on foot.
- In the unsaddling area, once the jockey has assisted stable staff with loosening any tack and is two metres away from any other personnel, the face covering may be lowered until the jockey returns to the changing area.
- While the face covering is lowered, it is essential that two-metre social distancing is maintained.
The BHA also announced that beginning on July 1, international runners will be permitted to take part in heritage handicaps on the Flat. Internationally trained runners can already participate in Class 1 races on the Flat and over jumps. Horse Racing Ireland has confirmed that also on July 1, premier handicaps in Ireland will be open to British-trained runners, as well as all black-type races under both codes. See www.britishhorseracing.com for more information.
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