As per the Press Release issued on 28 May 2020 (see below) and based on the President’s speech last night, the NHA is in discussions with the Ministers and currently awaits updated Level 3 Lockdown regulations. A Press Release will be issued with revised regulations on racing behind closed doors by latest 24 June 2020 that will be effective 1 July 2020.
Therefore, the status quo as per the below release remain effective.
Sent: Thursday, 28 May 2020 14:53
Subject: Press Release
PRESS RELEASE
RESUMPTION OF RACING – UPDATE
The NHA is pleased to announce that Horseracing in South Africa will resume on 1 June 2020 behind closed doors. The NHA have informed the Racing Operators accordingly on the requirements that needs to be complied with in order to stage these meetings.
The following rules shall be applicable on the effective start date.
- The field sizes will be restricted to 12 runners per race with the exception of ALL Pattern races in which 14 runners will be allowed.
- Jockeys will be restricted to ride in the region of their choice and cannot move in between provinces. They will be allowed to make ONE move prior to the commencement of racing.
- The adjusted minimum riding weight in Handicap races shall remain at 54kg.
- Horses moving between regions shall NOT be allowed unless a horse is moving to another province on a permanent basis as per the regulations of the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.
- All Horse Transport Companies must have the necessary Permits to move horses between the training centres and race courses.
- The last race must be run not later than 16h45.
- Any persons with comorbidities shall not be able to attend.
Racing at Flamingo Park shall NOT take place in the month of June. The Racing Operators shall advise on the status of Kimberley racing in due course.
All of the above will be applicable for the month of June. Any relaxations shall be implemented in conjunction with the status of the Coronavirus pandemic, together with any positive changes to the Governments adjusted risk strategy from July onwards.
A further release on the Health & Safety, together with the surveillance protocols, as per our submission to Government shall follow.
The Racing Operators have commenced with pre administration work for the upcoming meetings.
The NHA is pleading to all participants to self-regulate regarding prevention and hygiene practices. The Covid-19 pandemic is in its infant stages in South Africa. The scientific and worldwide statistics, forecasts that this virus will be in existence for an extended period. Individual responsibility will go a long way in assisting the South African Horseracing Industry to continue racing, creating value and to the ultimate sustainability thereof.