National Lockdown January 2021

07-01-2021

Following the government’s announcement on Monday evening 4th January that we are now in a third National Lockdown with immediate effect from then, here is a reminder of the restrictions previously applied to “elite” sports in earlier lockdowns of 2020.

Racing will continue behind closed doors in England with no spectators and owners subjected to the same restriction as November, which limited attendance to a maximum of 45 on the racecourse at any point. All those attending racing behind closed doors, including participants, are asked to note the government’s latest statements about the risks of virus transmission and ensure they continue to following racing’s protocols.

For amateur jockeys this means:

FLAT RACES: No amateur Flat race is possible during a national lockdown. Unfortunately at this time there is no way around this and therefore amateur races scheduled to take place on the All-Weather cannot go ahead for the time being whilst we are under lockdown.

JUMP RACES: 

• Some specific NH bumpers cater for conditional jockeys alongside Category A and B amateur jockeys;
• Special provision has been made for Category A amateur jockeys to be allowed to ride against professionals in specific pro/am NH races providing that they have completed in 10 rides under rules or in point-to-points (or a combination of the two);
• For Category A amateurs without sufficient rides on their record to race ride present, they can ride in the Hands and Heels Series as well as some specific bumpers (see above);

HUNTER CHASES:

• The BHA are currently working with all parties concerned to see a way forward for the programming of Hunter Chases this season. This is despite the cessation of point-to-points as from earlier this week until at least mid-February. A further update will be issued as soon as possible with the Hunter Chase season now imminent. 

Your patience and understanding is very much appreciated during these extremely challenging times and huge thanks must go to all those involved with Race Planning at the BHA who are doing their best for us as well as all those who support amateur jockeys at so many racecourses throughout the UK.

The BHA and racecourses will continue to liaise with Government, Public Health England and local Safety Advisory Groups for the well being of us all.