Hendo rues BHA rule

EQUINE FLU restrictions have ruled Nicky Henderson stars Top Notch (above) and Santini out of intended targets at Ascot this Saturday.

As racing resumes after a six-day blackout today, the British Horseracing Authority requires runners to have been vaccinated against the virus within the last six months.

“It’s frustrating — these were all tested on Friday and it says they are perfectly OK,” said the trainer. “I don’t like vaccinating mid-season and six or seven horses have fallen outside of that window.”

A total of 22 horses could face exclusion from this afternoon’s four fixtures under the BHA’S ongoing screening process.