Classic start for racing in early summer
THE 2,000 and 1,000 Guineas will be run on the first weekend of the coronavirusravaged 2020 Flat season.
In the wake of Boris Johnson’s COVID-19 lockdown update last Sunday, the British Horseracing Authority, initially hopeful of resuming in mid-May, pencilled in June 1 for racing’s restart.
And the Newmarket Classics, moved last month to June 6 and 7 are to remain on those revised dates, the BHA announced yesterday.
The news means that connections seeking a Guineas tune-up must go overseas, and Roger Charlton, trainer of Quadrilateral, the 4-1 favourite for the 1,000 Guineas, said: “It may not suit some, but we have to eat what’s put in front of us.
“I wasn’t planning on having a prep with her. She seems fine and she seems happy.”
The Investec Derby and Oaks, which will be run at its traditional Epsom home this year after plans to restrict public access to the course were approved on Tuesday evening, is also set to stay on its revised date of July 4.
The Coral-Eclipse is due to take place the following day and is likely to be restricted to four-year-olds and upwards.
“It will be without crowds and hospitality, but the Coral-Eclipse is our flagship sponsorship and we are keen for it to take place,” said the Stratford firm’s Simon Clare. Royal Ascot remains scheduled to take place between June 16 and 20.
❑ SIMEEN is as short as 4-1 second favourite for the Poule d’Essai des Pouliches (French 1,000 Guineas) at Longchamp on 1 June after a comeback win at Chantilly.