Rumours denied that Welsh courses will be specialised

THE owners of Chepstow and Ffos Las have denied rumours suggesting they are planning to make each commit to a single type of racing.

Andoversford trainer Kim Bailey mentioned in his blog earlier this week that he had heard the home of the Welsh National would be staging only National Hunt contests in the future, while Ffos Las would be used for the Flat.

Arena Racing Company, the UK’S largest racing group, said this was not their intention.

They have said however that they may look at the scheduling of certain meetings on the level at both venues.

Speaking on January 15, Bailey told his blog readers: “Rumour has it that Ffos Las is about to become a flat only racecourse and Chepstow a jumps only course.”

He saddled two runners at the former the previous day and added that the course is unique in terms of the soft ground it provides.

The track’s feature, the Welsh Champion Hurdle, takes place in October.

While the Welsh National, which bookmakers Coral will have sponsored for 50 years by 2022, is one of the highlights of the festive period.

“There are no plans to make Chepstow and Ffos Las jumps and flat only racecourses,” said a spokesman for Arena Racing Company.

“We may consider in the future the balance of fixtures between the two tracks, as the area around Ffos Las and West Wales generally is such a popular tourist destination in the summer, while the racecourse only hosts six flat fixtures.

“Two very different tracks, both Ffos Las and Chepstow are proud to support the burgeoning Welsh racing scene both over jumps and on the Flat.”

Last year a flood caused by burst pipes put Chepstow’s Premier Bar, Silks Restaurant and hospitality boxes out of action for several months.

As a result the facilities were refurbished and a Gin and Fizz Lounge opposite the winning line is a new addition.

The most recent renewal of the Welsh Champion Hurdle was sponsored by Dunraven Group for the first time.

Company chairman David Brace’s grandson Connor is a conditional jockey at Fergal O’brien’s Naunton yard.