In the latest resumption of racing update, racing behind closed doors is set to continue for the foreseeable future, the British Horseracing Authority announced on Thursday. The BHA thanked participants for their continued support and cooperation in following the behind closed doors protocols, but stressed that with both government and public health concerns about a rise in cases and a potential 'second wave' of COVID-19 cases, that it is vital everyone in racing continues to follow the proper protocols so that progress can be resumed towards re-introduction of spectators at the earliest available opportunity through the rescheduling of pilot events.
BHA Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jerry Hill has requested all participants and racecourse attendees to follow the following three steps to help keep everyone safe:
- Follow all the social distancing requirements when you attend racing, whether you're in the 'green zone' for participants or the owners' area.
- Do not cross from one zone to another, as this weakens the controls and could lead to many more people being quarantined if there is a positive case, as well as risking people's health.
- Please let the BHA's Medical Team (medical@britishhorseracing.com) know if there's a positive case so they can liaise with the public health authorities to manage the NHS Test & Trace process with the minimum impact. Dr. Hill can offer advice to employers, which can limit the effects on their business whilst keeping staff safe.
The BHA also reminded all racing personnel that the reason restrictions have not been further eased, is that the specific government guidance for elite sport applies to racing, whereas these same restrictions would not be applied to local businesses, like the local pub. Public health authorities have also made it clear to the BHA that they will consider a 14-day quarantine period for all racecourse attendees in the same zone as someone who tests positive for COVID-19.
For more information on the latest resumption of racing update, go to www.britishhorseracing.com.
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