Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
ON THE EDGE
West Country course faces an uncertain future after lockdown hits its finances
Pat Masterson is managing director at Newton Abbot – one of racing’s few independently-run tracks.
Before the sport went into lockdown in March, the course had endured a financially crippling period after losing four meetings to waterlogging – and then was hit by a further eight following the coronavirus outbreak.
“It will be my 30th anniversary on June 2 at Newton Abbot, and without a question this has been the hardest year I have ever had,” said Masterson.
“When I first came in 1990, you accepted that you were not going to be deriving a lot of money, there were not things like media rights, it was a different ball game.
“Now there is no media rights income with betting shops shut. It’s a real challenge.
“We’ve got to reinvent the wheel to keep the business going. I’m not going to hide from that, it’s extremely difficult.”
With 243 casual staff and a permanent team of 24, Masterson has been grateful of the Government’s furlough scheme and the assistance with the rates, but admits it is not going to pay all the wages.
“We have not raced since last September,” said Masterson. “We are due to start on July 7 behind closed doors. Obviously, that is difficult for us. We are putting on the event and we have to pay all the costs.
“The best way to describe it is surreal.” Masterson’s catering business has also taken a mighty hit along with the cancellation of conferences, car boot sales and antique fairs that had previously taken place at the racecourse. With five board members, including Philip Hobbs, Masterson said: “I would not say we are absolutely fine, but we are managing.
“We would like some good luck – it’s very difficult. At the end of the day, you’re playing with people’s lives.
“But I’m looking forward to the challenges on July 7 and all that comes with it.”
Racing is set to resume next Monday on the Flat at Newcastle – subject to final government approval expected later this week.