From Wednesday 2 December, a limited number of spectators will be allowed to attend race meetings in some areas of England, in line with the latest guidance from the UK Government. Owners will be able to attend fixtures across all three Tiers, with spectators also permitted to attend in Tiers One and Two.
At fixtures where spectators are permitted, the Amber Zone (formerly called the Owner Zone), will be mixed area, comprised of both owners and spectators, with specific areas / facilities reserved for owners only (including briefing areas to enable discussion with trainers and jockeys). This will hopefully deliver an improved racecourse experience; one which more closely resembles the traditional raceday.
As ever, pre-registration is essential, and owners will be emailed automatically with details of how to register once their horse is entered to run. This communication will include further information about what owners can expect at the fixture, including the number of badges available, food and beverage provision, and any screening arrangements that will be in place for the fixture.
The Racehorse Owners Association (ROA), Racecourse Association (RCA) and British Horseracing Authority (BHA) will continue to work with racecourses to ensure the raceday is as enjoyable and rewarding as possible, with the move to the tier system enabling an easing of restrictions.
To support owners, the racecourses have produced a briefing document, which outlines the arrangements for owners under the Tier system. In addition, owners will be asked to follow the Owners’ Code, which will help minimise the risk of infection and ensure the safety of everyone attending a race meeting.
These documents have been incorporated into racing industry’s Owner Protocols, which have been updated to reflect the introduction of the Tier system in England. The updated version of the Owner Protocols will apply to owners attending race meetings from Wednesday 2 December when the Tier system is introduced.
Owners attending fixtures today, Monday 30 November, and tomorrow, Tuesday 1 December, should continue to refer to the protocols that apply during the period of national restrictions. Please review the Owner Protocol before each racecourse visit as it is updated regularly in accordance with government guidance.
Racecourses in Scotland and Wales are awaiting guidance on the return of spectators, and owners should continue to check with the racecourse as to the current attendance arrangements.
As ever, thank you for your continued support and co-operation. The return of spectators is only possible because of the role owners and participants have played in adhering to the infection control measures in place.
We ask that you continue to follow the protocols and check the measures that apply within each Tier to help ensure the safety and wellbeing of everyone on the racecourse.
