Future of Scottish Grand National in the balance

Organisers of the Coral Scottish Grand National at Ayr Racecourse were this week bracing themselves for the possibility of the showpiece event being cancelled.

With the growing threat of the coronavirus pandemic around the UK, government advice surrounding mass public gatherings has prompted the cancellation of next month’s Grand National at Aintree.

And it’s looking increasingly likely that Ayr’s big horse race could suffer the same fate.

A statement from Ayr racecourse said yesterday: “Ayr Racecourse is in close communication with the Government and racing authorities about current public health matters regarding the Covid- 19 virus.

“The British Horse Racing Authority has today confirmed a plan to continue racing behind closed doors from tomorrow ( Tuesday March 17) until the end of March.

“This follows on from the Scottish Government advising mass gatherings of more than 500 people should be cancelled in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak which led to Kelso racing behind closed doors.

“We will monitor the situation with regard to the Coral Scottish Grand National and let our customers know any updates.”

But tellingly, the statement added: “We would like to remind all our customers that anyone who has purchased a ticket will be entitled to a full refund in the event of the fixture being cancelled or being held behind closed doors.

“Full information will be made available once the situation is clarified.”

Chief Executive of the BHA, Nick Rust, said: “Racecourses and racing yards are embedded in their local communities and we are acutely aware of our responsibilities to protect public health.

“The restrictions we are putting in place to close racing to spectators and limit attendees will reduce demand on public services. “